geology trail

Volcom26

Great mid level trail, some siffcult spots near the top but all and all a fun trail to take a mid level rig or those starting out in the scene (with proper rig and guidance) great views and drops you into Geology your road in JT. Recommended for sure!

FxFxrPA-C

This drive is for the interesting features and fabulous scenery. While 4WD is required in some areas don't expect it to be any sort of offroad challenge. That isn't purpose of this drive. For that kind of experience search OHV recreation areas-several are located within 30 minutes of Yucca Valley.

TheVeggieNomad

I found it a bit geologically blasphemous that the stop description pamphlet didn't have a map with the stop locations. Although perhaps one was posted somewhere in a pullout and I didn't notice. The descriptions on the tour stops were excellent though, and the scenery is fantastic. A high clearance vehicle is important after stop 9. We did see some people braving it in smaller cars, but I don't know how far they made it and I would not recommend trying it... Not a place you want to get stuck.

DeathValleyJim

Geology tour road is one of only two "4x4" roads in Joshua Tree NP, and to be honest, it is a bit of a joke from that stand point. I've never once had to engage 4x4 on my Jeep Wrangler while on this road, but there are a couple of rough spots that people may want to watch out for. The "tour" itself is interesting, be sure to pick up the pamphlet at the visitors center so you are aware of the various points throughout the "tour".

schikarmane

We were a party of eight, in one SUV and one sedan, both AWD. The Geology Trail was mostly quite smooth covered with sand from the desert around. In a few places, there were rough rocks but when conditions are dry, definitely manageable by sedans. May be quite another story when wet and muddy.The desert landscape and flora together with interesting geological features was definitely worth it. At the stops, you can hike over into the desert and explore. Be sure to pick up a guide at the entrance, or you will easily miss the most interesting features and the story behind them. It can be really windy the first part of the trail, so be sure to take a jacket.. Later, it gets better as there are hills that block some of the wind.

pba1

The road was relatively smooth when we went, but the ruts look like they can get pretty deep and the center grade could scrape the bottom of your lower clearance vehicle. The road seems pretty well traveled and does a big circle through a large desert valley. There's a pull out at the highest point where you can stop and take it all in (about midway through the loop). I highly recommend.

mlfranklin

The Geology Trail itself is a great way to get away from the more crowded trails. You can drive this trail in 2-wheel drive easily when it's dry. I found the vastness and the new views refreshing. If your 2-wheel drive has average ground clearance you can continue around the Geology one-way loop just fine as well. It's wonderful to feel the solitude.For those of you with a 4x4 with higher ground clearance, *definitely* continue down the Bendoo Canyon Road. It snake through some spectacular rock formations, through the bottom of the canyon. Do not do this with a car, 2-wheel drive, if it's muddy, or if you are running short on daylight. But if you have some 4x4 experience definitely check it out. Driving through the canyon was one of the highlights of my weekend, and I did not see another truck. Probably a good thing as there are stretches where you cannot pass.The Bendoo Canyon Road comes out at the southwest side of the park, and then you drive onto Dillon Road, which connects to highway 10.

Lumerian

If your into trail running this is a hidden gem! I ran the Geology Trail road solo with 2 16 ounce running water bottles. There's no water on this road so make sure you feel comfortable with your running if your going out. Don't forget that you're at higher elevation. Traveling in a vehicle make sure you have plenty of water. It only took 20 minutes of running to see a coyote run past the roat 50 yards infront of me. Lots of people were driving the road in their SUV's and Jeeps. You can stop at many locations along the way to do some side hiking or you can enjoy the great views. The loop takes you through a quiet location in the park where the geology is stunning. I took my time running the loop and finished in about 3 hours. I get concerned running on some of the regular trails in Joshua Tree because of rattlesnakes, this road gives you a wide area to run stress free of snakes.

heyjan

This drive is a smalll part of a fascinating natiional park...no lodges,no crowds...spectacular rock formations, huge desert meadows. Second half of the drive requires a

nicolediane

We were at Joshua Tree in September. We had a 4wd SUV which did fine on the road. You can get part way in a regular car. We had the guide that we got at the visitor center but a lot of the markers were missing or we missed them. The geology is interesting and the vastness of it all is impressive. Take lots of water. In the 2 hours we were on the road we didn't see one other car! That could be a problem if you have car trouble. Can't depend on your cell phone here. This is one of those things where you are glad you did it but wouldn't do it again.

ljw90028

What a great trail. It's a really mellow off roading trail. Be sure to pick up the brochure detailing various points. Learning about the events that caused the formations your viewing adds tons to the experience.

TravelerPaul18

We had AWD and no problem. 2WD is ok for experienced dirt/snow drivers.Some of the number signs are missing. Make sure you pick up the brochure at a visitors center.Part the National Park.

TyrelC

The geology trail is a great hike, but be prepared. take lots of food and water because it can get tiring. make sure and stop to take breaks often, and bring a camera because you are sure to see some amazing sights. check out www.joshuatreecamping.org for more info

WindyinSancreed

Pick up the free leaflet at one of the visitor centres, pile in the car, and go on this trip down a dirt track which has and explains some of the most extraordinary geology you are ever likely to see.There is a loop at the end which we didn't do as it's very sandy and probably needs a 4x4 as is very sandy. Wish I'd had the 4x4.....................

kasia1950

Amazing drive-suitable for 2 wheel drive for first 5 miles-with lots of amazing geology facts and sights-need 4 wheel drive to do the whole trip.