Before the new year, I wanted to see what else I can check off my to-do list this year- number 5: Backpacking in the desert. As I made my way to Joshua Tree, I remembered the few times I actually backpacked in the desert, so why this was on my list remains a question. Let’s just say, never have I ever backpacked in the Californian desert- so JTree it is!
Trip Date: 12/28-29,2023 Trail: Stubbe Springs Loop to Fan Canyon View Distance: 12.1 miles Elevation: 1,108 ft. Location: Joshua Tree National Park Permits: Wilderness permits are required and can be obtained here.
The Stubbe Springs Loop trail is a 12-mile loop located in Joshua Tree National Park. This hike can also be done as a long day hike, but I will always recommend an overnight trip whenever possible- the desert is just that special.
I set out to hike the Stubbe Springs Loop trail around 10:30 AM on Thursday, December 29. The weather was perfect with no rain in the forecast. I’m hiking solo, and this is my first official hike and backpacking trip in Joshua Tree National Park. My pack is a little heavy due to having to carry all of my water for the remainder of the trip since there is no water available on the trail. Being a cooler winter day, I opted to carry 2L of water, and while I should have been smarter to carry more, I actually found myself drinking less water throughout the day.
The trail is well-maintained, marked, and easy to follow. I was afraid the scenery wouldn’t change much, after all, it is the desert, but I was surprised by many different views along this trail. Fan Canyon is a 0.3- mile detour from the Stubbe Springs Loop, but well worth the visit.
I’d have to say that the Fan Canyon view is the highlight of this trail and should not be missed. The sun was starting to set as I passed the junction to Stubbe Springs. Knowing there is no camping allowed in that area, I decided to skip Stubbe Springs and continue to find a spot to call home for the night.
As I connected to the California Hiking and Riding Trail, I realized I made it 11 miles that day! Nearly completing the loop, I had a little less than 3 miles back to the car. The sun set quickly as I was setting up camp, allowing myself only 30 minutes to set up camp, prepare dinner, and capture any photos I wanted before night fell upon us.
It was an early night. The sun completely set before 5:30 PM that evening. I made a bowl of ramen soup, listened to the coyotes howl right before the sky turned dark, and tucked myself into my sleeping quilt one last time for the 2023 backpacking season.
Here is everything I packed for a desert backpacking trip!
