Split Rock Loop Trail — Attraction in Twentynine Palms

I started a bit too late, around 4 p.m. At some point, the trail stopped feeling like a loop, and as the sun began fading and the wind picked up a cold breeze, I decided it was best to turn back. Thankfully, I had filled up my water beforehand and paused to grab my lightweight down jacket. I also use hiking poles, which I find really helpful in general—they’d definitely come in handy here for added stability.

My gut told me to turn around, and I’m glad I listened—once the sun went down, it got cold fast. I saw a few ladies heading in as I was almost out and suggested they might want to rethink it. Fortunately, they turned around about 20 minutes later, so I didn’t have to worry.

There was no GPS signal out there; otherwise, I might have kept going. I’m not a fan of hiking at dusk without a headlamp—I only brought an LED hand flashlight—I think about the animals that come out at night too. Luckily, I carry bear mace, which I’d recommend bringing too since the outdoors are unpredictable.

As for the scenery—huge rocks, beautiful desert views—I’d highly recommend this hike. I’d love to go back, just earlier in the day and when there are more people around so I don’t have to second-guess myself. I was rushing and not thinking...

Amazing trail and rock formations! Trail does get if-fy in some places so try to download an AllTrails map in advance if you can (another hiker had done this and helped me when I was a little lost). And bring lots of water and sunscreen! I ended up doing 5 miles between Skull Rock Trail, the Discovery Trail, and part of Split Rock Trail before turning around bc I lost the trail. There were also markers like a baseball hat that another hiker had left because I don’t think we were the first to be confused. There were several parts where we were following fairly wide sandy paths of footsteps from other hikers, but the trail got lost in the rocks or around bushes. So be aware, bring a compass and map, trust your gut, and turn around if you’re unsure of where you are and all the rocks start...

You must visit. It has all the elements you'll chase around the park. The split Rock is massive, the tulip, the face, rolling flats with cactus, and towards the end a whole lot of boulders to satisfy you. Parking can be closed - we had to do an extra mile of walking. If this happens to you, do t walk to the split parking lot. Just dri e on the road for 100 meters and walk from the trailhead on side of the road. It is more convenient and you still...