Near Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
Droves of cholla are highlighted by the setting sun at Cholla Cactus Garden. Photo credit: NPS/Brad Sutton.
Near Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
Some beautiful Cholla Cactus.
Near Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
Cholla Cactus Garden Trail in Joshua Tree National Park
Near Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
A sea of cholla cacti
Near Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
Cholla cactus

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Hike Route

Cholla Cactus Garden Trail

4.3 (18 Ratings)
This completely level loop visits a wonderfully dense concentration of cholla cactus.
0.2
mi
Distance
13
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Family FriendlyWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.25mi
Distance
13ft
Elevation Gain
13ft
Elevation Loss
5%
Max Grade
2,199ft
High Point
2,184ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
From the Pinto Basin Road, stop at the well marked parking area for the Cholla Cactus Garden. The very short path is a dirt loop with zero elevation gain. It winds delightfully through a forest of cholla cactus. One species of this cactus looks exceptionally fuzzy and, for this reason, it is commonly known as "teddy bear cholla". Obviously, you should not touch the cactus - it damages the plant and will leave you with hooked spines embedded in your flesh and clothing. Otherwise, enjoy this profusion of stubby, cute desert life!

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Megan W