Barker Dam Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a must visit! It’s a fun loop trail that packs a lot of punch. You will see many highlights of the Mojave Desert on this short trail, including Joshua trees, as well as other desert plants such as yucca and cacti, and beautiful monzogranite rock formations. If you are lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the herd of bighorn sheep who frequent the watering hole (visit at dusk or dawn for the best chance of spotting wildlife)!
At the midpoint of the trail you’ll arrive at the dam (which may be dry or hold water depending on rainfall). This dam is a relic of the area’s ranching days and there’s some interpretive signage to checkout if you’re interested in the history. On the way out, you can even take a short detour to view ancient petroglyphs!
Barker Dam Trail is located in Joshua Tree National Park, in the Mojave Desert of California. It’s a 1.1 mile loop trail with very little elevation gain. Since it’s short and easy, It’s a great trail for families- but anyone will appreciate the views it offers! Along the way you can take a break to scramble over the boulders alongside the trail for a little added fun.
Trail Info for Barker Dam
Length
The route is a well marked 1.1 mile loop. Barker Dam Trail is rated Easy and has a 50 ft. total elevation gain. You will walk on a dirt trail and pass through sandy washes, with a few areas of light scrambling along boulders.
How to Access
Barker Dam Trail is located in Joshua Tree National Park. There’s a fee to enter the park, so plan to stop and pay at the entry kiosk unless you have a park pass. This is a very popular trail, so parking can be difficult. Because of this, if you’re visiting on a weekend, try to arrive early so you can be sure to snag a spot!
What to Bring
The desert landscape may look barren at first glance, but this unique ecosystem is actually teaming with life! Learn more about the park’s namesake Joshua trees here.
When exploring in the desert, it’s very important to carry enough water for yourself and everyone else in your party. Generally, you want 17 oz. of water for every hour you’re on a trail.
Adding some ice to your reusable bottle and filling it with water before heading out into the desert will help you stay both cool and hydrated.
We also recommend you lather up in sunscreen and pack your favorite sunhat.
Be aware that although Barker Dam is an easy trail, it’s not paved. There can be slippery, loose rock and sand, so wear shoes with good traction.
Make a Day of it
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the trail. We recommend stopping by The DEZ Fine Foods or Roadrunner Grab+Go in Joshua Tree. In Yucca Valley, Luna Bakery is our favorite spot to grab sandwiches!
Always remember to leave no trace: take only photographs, leave only footprints, pack out what you pack in, and stay on designated trails to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
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While you are out and about exploring Joshua National Park, visit some of our other favorite trails: Ryan Mountain, Arch Rock, and Willow Hole.
