Mastodon Peak Loop Trail — Attraction in Coachella

A moderate trail and there is some elevation. We went in the counterclockwise direction and there was some shade on the latter half. Just over 2 hours including stops for lots of pictures.

Saw: Lots of little lizards, a few small birds, a few butterflies, some mine ruins, lots of large rocks

Make sure to get water at the cottonwood center first. They have a couple of picnic tables but bring your own food because I don't think they have any.

Very sunny even in November. The 2 of us drank four 24 oz bottles of water. (This seems like a terrible place to go in...

Hiked this with my wife and 3mo old in a chest carrier. It was doable in January but wouldn’t have wanted to do it during warmer weather. Path is crudely marked at times but there are multiple spots where you can see across the landscape and get your bearings. We didn’t do the scramble to the top of the peak, just the loop. Would do it again. Missing a fifth star just because there could be more signage about the landscape, plants, and animals in this area (and how they differ from the rest...

It's honestly an easy, scenic, beautiful loop with lengthy views, plenty of flora, and wildlife. The palm sanctuary in the beginning is a majestic treat, offering most of the shade, which lacks on this loop trail. Combined with a hot sun, it can sneak up on you. I would recommend going counterclockwise, hit the peak, see the mine, head back. I had complete pics on my first trek three years ago but lost them. My son and I recently stopped on our way back from L.A. I'll be back...