Are dogs allowed on Ryan Mountain Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Ryan Mountain Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Ryan Mountain Trail?

No, Ryan Mountain Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Ryan Mountain Trail?

Ryan Mountain Trail is rated moderate. It is 3.0 miles long with 1,050 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Ryan Mountain Trail?

Ryan Mountain Trail is best hiked in fall, winter, and spring. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

1 / 4

ModerateOut and Back

Joshua Tree National Park/California

Ryan Mountain Trail

Twentynine Palms, California

3.0 mi

Distance

1,050 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 32m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Best panoramic views in Joshua Tree from the 5,457-foot summit. 360-degree views of the park, San Jacinto Mountains, and the Coachella Valley.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherUneven terrain

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:760-367-5500
Address:74485 National Park Drive · Twentynine Palms, CA · 92277-3597

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Highlights

360-degree summit viewsJoshua tree forestsSan Jacinto viewsDesert panorama

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Verified from National Park Service public trails dataset

Trail centerline: National Park Service public trails dataset. Source ↗

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting unit

CA Unit D12· D

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the California hunting page

Ryan Mountain Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting unit

Nearby Trails

Ryan Ranch Trail

Berdoo Canyon

Cap Rock and Gram Parsons Nature Trail

Crown Prince Lookout Trail

Jumbo Rocks Campground Loop

Lucky Boy Vista Trail to Elton Mine

Other trails in Joshua Tree National Park

Lost Horse Mine Loop

Skull Rock Nature Trail

Ryan Mountain Trail

Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

Lost Palms Oasis

Campgrounds near this trail

Joshua Tree National Park Sheep Pass Campground

Ryan Campground

Jumbo Rocks Campground

Boy Scout Trail Backcountry Camping

Belle Campground

Indian Cove Campground

Similar trails in California

Mirror Lake Loop

Skull Rock Nature Trail

Cowles Mountain Trail

Eaton Canyon Trail

Three Sisters Waterfalls Trail

Sturtevant Falls Trail