Paac Kuvuhu'k (formerly Squaw Tank) Trail

This is a 4.5-mile connector between the California Riding and Hiking Trail and Geology Tour Road. It traverses an expansive and sometimes desolate landscape with creosote, yucca, cholla and scrub. The few Joshua Trees that you may spot are stunted compared to other areas in the park, and clusters of boulders accentuate the stark terrain. When taken from north to south (heading southeast), the trail is a steady and constant descent. The terrain can be sandy, but the grade is never too steep which allows you to take in the scenery as you hike. The Hexie Mountains and Ryan Mountains are particularly pretty during the morning hours. The trail eventually ends at a junction with the Geology Tour Road where you can continue for a loop or retrace your steps the way you came (keep in mind that the way back will be all uphill). This trail is quite exposed and more remote than some of the other trails in the park so bring plenty of water and sun protection.