Hi-View Nature Trail
Photography © Paul Martinez
A short climb into one of Joshua Tree National Park's quieter corners.
Location: Black Rock Canyon, Joshua Tree National Park
Distance: Approximately 1.3 miles round trip
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: Approximately 400 feet
Time needed: 45–90 minutes
Best seasons: Fall, winter, and spring
Trail access: Black Rock area, Yucca Valley
The Experience
Tucked away in the Black Rock area of Joshua Tree National Park, Hi-View Nature Trail is one of those hikes that feels like a local secret. Unlike the more heavily visited trails along Park Boulevard, Hi-View offers a quieter experience in a landscape filled with Joshua trees, pinyon pines, junipers, and sweeping mountain views. The trail begins with a relatively gentle walk before climbing steadily toward higher ground. Along the way, the surrounding landscape gradually opens, revealing views across Yucca Valley, the Little San Bernardino Mountains, and the distant San Gorgonio Mountains. While the hike is relatively short, the elevation gain adds just enough challenge to make reaching the upper sections feel rewarding. It's an excellent option for visitors looking for a hike that doesn't require an entire day but still delivers some of the most beautiful views in this part of the park.
What to Expect
Hi-View follows a loop through the Black Rock landscape, with a combination of sandy terrain, rocky sections, and a steady climb. The trail is moderately challenging, particularly along the uphill portions, but remains approachable for many hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. As you gain elevation, the Joshua trees become part of a much larger scene, framed by mountains and the surrounding high desert. The elevated sections are the highlight, offering opportunities to stop, take photographs, and appreciate a different perspective of Joshua Tree National Park. There is little shade along much of the route, so cooler mornings and afternoons are ideal.
Why We Like It
Part of what makes Hi-View special is its location. Black Rock is a separate section of Joshua Tree National Park, accessible from Yucca Valley without driving through the park's main entrances. Because of this, many visitors exploring the park's most recognizable landmarks never make it here. The result is a trail that can feel surprisingly removed from the activity elsewhere in the park. For relatively little effort, Hi-View offers a rewarding climb, beautiful desert vegetation, and expansive views that make it worth returning to throughout the cooler months.
Getting There
Hi-View Nature Trail is located in the Black Rock area of Joshua Tree National Park, near Yucca Valley. From Highway 62, turn south onto Joshua Lane and continue toward Black Rock Campground. Follow the park road through the Black Rock area toward the trailhead near the horse camp. Black Rock is not connected by road to the park's main scenic corridor, so visitors should plan to access this area separately rather than expecting to reach it from Park Boulevard.
Trailhead: Hi-View Nature Trail, Black Rock Canyon, Joshua Tree National Park
Know Before You Go
Bring water: Even during cooler months, the desert can be dry and exposed.
Wear appropriate footwear: Expect sandy stretches, loose rocks, and uneven surfaces.
Prepare for elevation gain: The climb is short but noticeable, particularly for less experienced hikers.
Check the weather: Strong winds, heat, and winter conditions can affect the experience.
Download a trail map: Cell service may be unreliable, and several trails intersect in the Black Rock area.
Protect the landscape: Stay on designated trails, give wildlife space, and leave plants, rocks, and other natural features undisturbed.
Leave pets at home: Dogs are not permitted on the hiking trail.
Our Recommendation
If you're looking for a relatively short hike with rewarding views and a quieter atmosphere, Hi-View Nature Trail is an excellent place to start. It's also a reminder that Joshua Tree National Park extends far beyond the familiar roads and popular stops most visitors experience. Sometimes the best way to see the park differently is simply to explore another corner of it.