Hiding in the Southern California desert is a hiking trail that offers a rare glimpse at what life was like as an early miner. The Eagle Cliff Mine is a lesser-known hike in Joshua Tree National Park because it can be challenging to find. However, if you take the effort to seek it out, you’ll be rewarded with an up-close look at a miner’s abandoned “house” and old mine ruins. It certainly makes for an amazing adventure! Here’s what you need to know about the Eagle Cliff Mine hiking trail.
The Eagle Cliff Mine trail is located in Joshua Tree National Park. However, you won't find it on any park maps. The trail is difficult to follow but if you stay the course, you'll be led straight to a remarkably preserved, historic mining site.
The trail is about 2.5-miles out-and-back, but don't be fooled by its short length. The trail is quite steep in parts and requires some scrambling. Additionally, the area is very rugged and remote, so come prepared with plenty of water, a snack, and weather-appropriate attire.
The trail starts at Split Rock Trailhead before veering off onto an unmarked trail. There's another entrance from the Desert Queen Mine trail, as well. We recommend downloading the trail map onto your phone since there are no signs or markers to guide you along the trail, with the exception of some cairns.
You'll know you're close to the site when you spot a cave that's hollowed out a portion of the hillside. From this point, it's just a short walk through a rocky area before you reach the historic miner's house and mine shaft.
Continuing on the trail, you'll spot the mine shaft and several large leaning rock slabs. You'll soon reach the cliffside where the remnants of a miner's residence can be seen!
The inside of the house is filled with old artifacts and items long abandoned. Everything inside of the house is amazingly preserved - it almost looks to be frozen in time. Be sure to take only photographs and leave only footprints when checking out this incredible site.
Outside the house is a cave that looks to be where the miner slept, and a kitchen area complete with a small window and a fireplace. It's hard to find, but these century-old ruins are worth every step! Plan your visit to Joshua Tree and the Eagle Cliff Mine trail here.
Did you know about this unique trail in Southern California? What an amazing find! Please, do your part to keep this place as it is and leave no trace. If you do attempt this hike, remember not to take anything from the old miner’s site and to leave everything as it is. Happy trails!
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