CALIFORNIA – JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK – Barker Dam Trail

Photo Experience:  In spite of the arid landscape, hiking in this area was time well spent. The 1.5-mile trail is mostly level; it meanders among some giant monzogranite rocks before the path comes out into more open terrain, featuring some of the park’s namesake vegetation. My 24-120mm lens worked well for most shots here, although I did need a telephoto lens to get a cottontail as it paused to rest in the shade of a boulder. I found good light during the afternoon here. (Morning light may also work – I just cannot personally vouch for that.) To find water in the reservoir at the dam, you will probably need to visit in the spring or fall.

Other Info:   An admission fee, or appropriate pass, is required for admission to this park. The turnoff for the trailhead is located 12 miles west of the intersection of Park Boulevard and Pinto Basin Road. At this well-marked turnoff, drive 1.5 miles to the parking lot for Barker Dam Trail. Wearing a hat and sunscreen and taking water is a good idea on this trail.