The Mojave Trails National Monument does not have a specific visitor center with defined hours. However, you can visit the nearby Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center at Mojave National Preserve, which is open Friday to Monday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
There is no entrance fee for Mojave National Preserve or the adjacent Mojave Trails National Monument. You can visit free of charge.
From 29 Palms, head east on Highway 62, then connect to historic Route 66, immersing yourself in pristine sand dunes and rugged mountain ranges.
Parking at Mojave Trails National Monument is limited, with no specific lots for cars, RVs, or motorcycles. Dispersed parking is allowed along roads and trails, but no overnight parking in designated areas. No fees apply.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Mojave Trails National Monument, spanning 1.6 million acres in California’s Mojave Desert, is a vast and awe-inspiring landscape that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its rugged beauty. Located between Interstates 15 and 40, this monumental area is a mosaic of rugged mountain ranges, ancient lava flows, and spectacular sand dunes. The monument encompasses the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of Route 66, a historical treasure that whispers tales of America’s past.
As you explore, the Old Spanish Trail and the remnants of the World War II-era Desert Training Center offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and military history. The area is also home to ancient Native American trading routes, adding a layer of depth to the landscape.
The diverse terrain supports a wide array of flora and fauna, including the iconic Joshua trees and a variety of wildlife such as bighorn sheep and desert tortoises. Seasonal changes bring vibrant colors to the desert floor; spring blooms with wildflowers, while autumn paints the mountains with hues of gold and red.
For the adventurous, hiking trails such as those within the Congressionally designated Wilderness areas provide endless opportunities to explore. Nearby, Joshua Tree National Park and Mojave National Preserve offer additional avenues for discovery.
In the vicinity, the charming town of 29 Palms is just a 30-minute drive away, offering a mix of artisan shops, local eateries, and unique accommodations. For those seeking guided experiences, local outfitters and ranger-led tours can enhance your understanding and appreciation of this unique environment.
- Area (mi²)
- 2500
- Annual visitors
- 103 000
- Established year
- 2016
Top 3 Facts about Mojave Trails National Monument
The monument includes the Marble Mountains Fossil Beds, a site featuring 550 million-year-old fossils of trilobites, some of the first animals on Earth with eyes and skeletons.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, Joshua trees and yuccas stand tall alongside cacti, their spiny leaves shielding water-storing stems. Relict stands of white fir, juniper, and pinyon pines thrive at higher elevations. Desert bighorn sheep roam freely, while black-tailed jackrabbits and desert cottontails dart through the underbrush. The skies are filled with over 200 bird species, and the ground is home to chuckwallas, sidewinders, and desert horned lizards. This unique blend of flora and fauna creates a mesmerizing tapestry of life in one of North America’s most striking deserts.
In this arid landscape, the Cadiz Dunes stand out with their vibrant orange-pink hues, formed from the sand of dry lake beds and almost entirely unvegetated. The nearby Mojave River, one of the few places it flows above ground, carves through Afton Canyon, dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Mojave, with steep rock walls that testify to the region’s geological history. The area’s unique formations and pristine dunes offer a surreal backdrop for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for multiple days to explore vast trails and sights. Arrive via car, fill up on gas, and bring ample water and food. Visit the visitor center, anticipate rocky terrain, and rest often. Ideal during cooler spring months, avoid summer heat. Pack for limited amenities.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers, sun protection, and a waterproof backpack. Bring a map, compass, GPS, and a portable charger. Don’t forget extra water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Adjust gear based on the season and length of your stay.
Respect Wildlife
Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and inform someone of your plans. Respect native species like desert tortoises and bighorn sheep by keeping a safe distance and not disturbing their habitats. Leave no trace to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Avoid ledges, respect wildlife, and pack ample water. In emergencies, call 911. Check park rules and stay hydrated.
Seasons
Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) to this desert landscape. Witness the annual bloom of rare flowers in hidden canyons and enjoy optimal wildlife viewing at remote springs. Ideal months: March to May.
Summer brings scorching temperatures over 100°F, but adventurous souls can revel in the unique landscapes of rugged mountains, ancient lava flows, and spectacular sand dunes. Although the heat can be intense, summer thunderstorms known as monsoons can suddenly cool the air. It’s not the best time for outdoor activities, but the dramatic skies make for breathtaking photography.
Autumn, with temperatures in the 70s, offers mild weather ideal for hiking and stargazing. Visit in October to April to explore ancient lava flows and scenic geology, and catch the annual Dark Sky Festival for unparalleled stargazing experiences.
Winter brings crisp temperatures, ranging from 36°F to 57°F, and occasional snow in the higher elevations. Strong winds and short days make it less ideal for outdoor activities, but the serene landscape and potential for wildflowers in late winter are undeniable attractions. Visit from November to April for a unique, tranquil experience.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Mojave Trails National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Mojave Trails National Monument is Twentynine Palms, California, which is about 30 minutes away. Twentynine Palms was designated as an official Gateway Community to the monument in 2018.
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Dogs are allowed in most areas, including trails and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. They are not permitted inside buildings. Owners must pick up after their dogs and ensure they wear a collar with current tags.
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Overnight RV parking is allowed, but high clearance 4x4s are strongly recommended due to the condition of the roads. Campers, motorhomes, and camper vans can use the undeveloped campsites, though there is a 14-day camping limit. Large RVs can fit at some sites, but road conditions may be challenging.
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Key attractions include Amboy Crater, a dormant cinder cone volcano that was popular during the heyday of U.S. Route 66 from the 1920s to the 1960s. Afton Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Mojave,” features steep rock walls and is one of the few places where the Mojave River flows above ground. The Cadiz Dunes, a nearly pristine and unvegetated dune field, and the historic stretch of U.S. Route 66 between Needles and Ludlow, California, are also notable sites.