Oasis Of Mara Nature Trail Trailhead — Attraction in Twentynine Palms

This once culturally significant and beautiful place now looks sadly neglected. Many of the Washington fan palms are dead or dying and there is litter, weeds and overgrowth scattered throughout the site. The visitor centre has been downgraded with all museum exhibits closed. A more extant section of the Oasis of Mara can be found at the neighbouring inn, where visitors are welcome to walk around the oasis and its springs. It is especially heartbreaking to consider that our national park service manages this wasteland that was once a fertile oasis held sacred by its first peoples. A sad monument to a US government agency more focussed on flogging keychains and fridge magnets than managing this site of cultural and...

Eh, it's okay. Let me break down the pros and cons.

✔️ It's a well-paved sidewalk (not hiking trail) that is very accessible. It's in a loop, so great for kids or anyone not keen for a big walk.

✔️ There are interesting informational signs, so you'll learn a bit, too.

😔 These trees pictured are the oasis. It looks a bit sad. There may have been a fire recently, there's a fair amount of debris.

If you're coming for a proper hike/walk, you'll be disappointed. If you want to have a short, educational walk, stop by!

🚘 Ample...

One of my favorite casual walking trails in the Morongo Basin! Pets are allowed on leashes, so expect to see a few dogs on leashes. The best part about this trail is that it is handicap accessible. The entire path is paved and there are no inclines and declines. Birds, reptiles, insects, and mammals gather here for food, water, and shelter. Especially lovely in the mornings and evenings. Parking here is free and the restrooms are open...