Indian Cove Boy Scout Trail

Robert Vida

Nice long trail accessible from outside of the park from Twentynine Palms. The trail is a bit slow going at first because of the sand path but it is pretty flat and there's some nice views of plants, rocks, wildlife (birds, lizards, rabbits and mice), and a dried river bed. Hiking for about 45 min will get you part way up the rocky hills where you can take some great pictures of the valley. Also includes a restroom near the entrance.

Michael Towne

The Boyscout Trail is an excellent hike through the western mountains of JTNP! I took the trail on January 1st, 2020. There were several inches of snow on the north facing parts of the trail. The trail has two endpoints: Keys West and Indian Cove. You have several options. 1) Start at either end and arrange a pick-up vehicle at the other end. This option takes about 2-4 hours depending on your hiking speed. The distance is about 7.6 miles with 1300 feet of elevation gain if you start from Indian Cove. Also note, Indian Cove to Keys West is the more demanding climbing. 2) You can do an out-and-back starting at either endpoint. This option will take 4-8 hours depending on your speed and breaks. It is about 15-16 miles. Total elevation gain will be between 2400-2600 feet. 3) You can hike to the high point of the trail and take the Big Pine trail. This gives you access to the Maze Loop and several other trails. Backcountry camping is allowed South of the trail.

Cheri Ryan

Varried terrain awaits you along the Boy Scout Trail. From the backcountry board the trail meanders over an aluveial fan incline through a large sandy wash that winds up into a beautiful canyon with some nice red barrel cacti. The trail then climbs out of the canyon, gaining elevation and opportunity for nice views back towards the 29 Palms valley. I took a snack break here at about 2.6 miles then headed back, enjoying the late afternoon sun breaks.

Robert Selff

Great beginner/moderate hike. Lots of fun, but bring extra water.