The hike to Lost Palms Oasis departs from Cottonwood Spring on the east side of Joshua Tree. There is actually a smaller oasis, Victory Oasis, right at the trailhead. From there, the trail heads east on a 7.2-mile round-trip track to Lost Palms Oasis.

The short trek to Mastodon Peak can be visited in combination with this hike as they share the same trail for half a mile. Follow the markers for Lost Palms and hike across the desert on coarse sand. In the spring, the wildflower bloom here can be spectacular. The trail leads in and out of various washes over fairly level terrain, before descending through a canyon to a bluff overlooking the oasis.

Lost Palms Oasis

Nestled between mountains, Lost Palms Oasis is often rated as Joshua Tree’s nicest. From the overlook, a steep path descends to the oasis. Walk amongst the palms and relish in the shade before returning the way you came. Pack plenty of water and sunscreen (or consider Fortynine Palms Oasis for a shorter oasis hike in Joshua Tree National Park).

Lost Palms Oasis

To get to the trailhead: From the 10 freeway, take exit 168 and head north on Cottonwood Spring Road. After 7 miles, turn right before the at Cottonwood Spring Visitor Center and continue 1 mile to the trailhead at road’s end. From within the park, Take Park Blvd to the junction with Pinto Basin Road. Take Pinto Basin Road thirty miles to Cottonwood Spring, turn east and continue 1 miles to roads end at the trailhead.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

View Lost Palms Oasis GPS in a larger map
Or view California Desert Hikes in a larger map

Photos

 

                       

These photos were taken in April of 2008 and April of 2010. Click to enlarge.

Nearby Trails

 

	Mastodon Peak This 2.6-mile loop visits a 3,400-foot summit with panoramic views of southeastern Joshua Tree.
	Cholla Cactus Garden This quarter-mile loop allows visitors to stroll through an intense concentration of Cholla cacti.
	Fortynine Palms Oasis The 3-mile round trip hike visits a cool desert oasis.
	Indian Cove The 101-site campground is home to a 0.6-mile interpretive trail and endless bouldering and rock climbing opportunities.
	Hidden Valley This one mile loop circles the interior of a small valley surrounded by tall rocks that serves as an excellent bouldering arena.
	Ryan Mountain This 3-mile round-trip hike offers summit views from the center of Joshua Tree National Park.
	Warren Peak This 5.5-mile hike summits a peak with impressive views over the west side of Joshua Tree.
	Lucky Boy Vista This level 2.5-mile hike visits a modest overlook at the site of an old mine.
	Inspiration Peak This 1.2-mile hike leaves the crowds at Keys View for even grander views at a 5,550-foot summit that looks out on the Coachella Valley, the Salton Sea, Mount San Jacinto, and much of Joshua Tree National Park
	Lost Horse Mine This 4-mile round-trip trail visits a well-preserved mine and mill.
	Hikes in the California Desert Explore more trails in Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and Mojave National Preserve.

Camping

 

Joshua Tree Campgrounds There are nine campgrounds with 500 total sites spread throughout the park to facilitate your visits.

Wildflowers

 

Joshua Tree Wildflowers The desert in bloom is something any outdoor enthusiast in California should see.

More Info

 

NPS trail bruchure for Lost Palms Oasis

Lost Palms Oasis on localhikes.com

Lost Palms Oasis in HIKING CALIFORNIA’S DESERT PARKS by Bill and Polly Cunningham

The official website for Joshua Tree National Park