Organizer
-
Diane Petrilla
-
Phone
931-224-5149 -
Email
petrillad@gmail.com -
Diane and her husband Eric moved to Palm Desert in the Spring of 2024 from east Tennessee. They are year-round residents and are loving being closer to grandchildren who live in the valley! Diane is an avid hiker and backpacker, having led multiple hikes for the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club for many years, and holding a number of leadership positions in that 100 year-old organization. She thru-hiked the John Muir Trail in 2022 and is excited about living closer to the magnificent Sierra Nevadas, as well as exploring all of the hiking opportunities California has to offer!
LOST PALMS OASIS AT COTTONWOOD SPRINGS- FULL. Waiting List Started
On this last day of the Thanksgiving weekend, you may crave a hike to walk off some energy!
Beginning at the end of Cottonwood Road in JTNP, this moderate out and back desert hike climbs gradually up a slope past Mastodon Peak. The trail runs along ridges and down through washes and narrow canyons with stunning views to the Salton Sea and north into the vast hills of the trailless eastern section of the park. An array of cactus species and desert plants provide a backdrop for the antics of multiple lizards scurrying out of our way. We can descend off trail to the oasis at the end of the trail via a steep vertical descent (and ascent on the way back) or for those who prefer, relax at the top and enjoy the amazing views!
The trail surface is mostly hard packed sand and rock and no rock climbing or scrambling is involved (except for those who go down to the oasis). There is no shade or water on the trail. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
We will meet at the Cottonwood Tr parking lot in JTNP at 9am here. To reach the parking lot, use I-10 East to reach the JTNP turn off. Follow the JTNP entrance road north until Cottonwood road appears on your right. The ranger station and visitors’ center is at this intersection and presents your last chance for a restroom! Turn right on Cottonwood and follow it to the end. You will need to display a NP Pass.
If you would like to carpool, please let me know. We will meet at the Starbucks parking lot area at 78385 Varner Rd, Palm Desert, CA 92211 (Near intersection of Washington and Varner, on north side of I-10) a little before 8am and depart promptly at 8am.
Map here: https://caltopo.com/m/16J0N
Altitude gain: 470 feet (2990′ to 3460′)
Cumulative altitude gain: 1095 feet
Distance: 7.5- 9 miles depending on whether we do the entire Mastodon Peak Loop
Terrain: Slightly varied, deep sand, short climb, some slick rock
Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plant debris
Please RSVP below.
HIKE LEADER: Diane Petrilla
HIKE LOCATOR: Joshua Tree National Park
HIKE DIFFICULTY: Moderate
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club! Join Now!
Change my RSVP
