This line delineates the old level of the ground, over 8 million years ago. Take a moment to observe the faint white line found about 3 feet high on these rocks as you pass by. A subtle social trail dips down into a wash and then climbs up a loose sandy hill through a notch just left of the big rock pile (visible in the above photo – 1700 feet from the trailhead). If you are not comfortable with off-trail travel, then completing the Arch Rock loop is your best bet.įrom the “Disappearing Soil” sign aim straight east. This section requires beginner route finding skills. Once you’ve gotten your arch fix, continue along the trail a few steps until you see the interpretive sign titled “Disappearing Soil.” This sign is the landmark to leave the established trail and head along the spur trail to Grand Tank. You can even access the top by carefully walking through the arch then scrambling up the right hand side - just make sure you can downclimb everything before you head up. An easy scramble grants access to the inside of the arch for great views and perfect pictures. While it doesn’t compare to the incredible rock formations found at Arches National Park, this 30 foot granite arch is still quite beautiful. Take time to read these signs as you make your way counter-clockwise towards the arch.Īfter 700 feet the trail turns sharply to the right and deposits you at the base of Arch Rock. The trail to Arch Rock is dotted with interpretive signs which expand on the fascinating geologic processes that created this landscape. The following directions as-written are only for those who are staying in the campground. Day hikers can still access Arch Rock via a trailhead at Twin Tanks. Note: in 2019 the Park Service closed this area to day-users. Avoid staying in sites #13 – #15 since the trail runs directly behind them. This campground is one of the smallest in the park and offers a more peaceful atmosphere than nearby Jumbo Rocks and Hidden Valley. The first section of Arch Rock Trail parallels the backside of White Tank Campground. Park in the small day-use lot found just after site #8, please leave the campground sites open for folks who will be staying the night. The trailhead for both Arch Rock Interpretive Trail and the spur to Grand Tank begins in White Tank Campground along the northern end of Pinto Basin Road. This hike takes you to Arch Rock, one of those just-off-the-road landmarks, and then continues on a short spur trail to Grand Tank, a historic reservoir. However, what the park lacks in breathtaking roadside attractions it easily makes up for with a slow desert pace and numerous easy hiking trails to hidden treasures. Joshua Tree doesn’t fit the typical National Park mold of catering primarily to auto tourists.
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