Hidden Valley Trail

A one-mile loop through a boulder-enclosed basin that cattle rustlers reportedly used to hide stolen herds, and the single best short walk in Joshua Tree National Park. The trail is nearly flat, threads between enormous granite formations, and passes some of the park's most-climbed rock. Parking is small and fills by mid-morning most of the year; there is a picnic area alongside and no water.

Hours: Park open 24 hours. Best for a first hike inside the park.