The Hidden Valley day-use area is one of most scenic places for a food break. It's in close proximity to Hidden Valley Interpretive Trail and numerous rock climbing areas make this a very crowded spot pretty much all the time. 16 picnic tables are located off of a tiny loop of road on the western and southern sections of the parking lot. Pit toilets, garbage and recycling cans, and fire pits with grills are available throughout the picnic area.
Other than its proximity to park highlights, there are two things that really set this picnic area apart from the rest -- shade and rock exploration. Most picnic tables are at least partially shaded by juniper and pinyon pine trees, which is a welcome relief on hot afternoons. The nook and crannies that are behind the picnic tables provide a safe and fun way for kids to explore all the crevasses of these rock piles.
I've sat down at these tables countless times with the intention of just grabbing lunch, but I almost always end up spending the afternoon relaxing in the shade instead. This is one of the best places to enjoy the slow pace of the desert.
The 1 mile loop trail through Hidden Valley is one of the best interpretive trails in the park. You'll see a variety of Mojave Desert flora, learn about the rich cattle rustling history of the valley, and watch rock climbers scale popular walls along this trail.
Start from the trailhead on the northwest corner of the parking lot. The trail quickly winds through a small gap in the rocks before opening up upon this naturally secluded valley (1). Numerous interpretive signs are located along this route providing a little more information about the flora, fauna, and history of this area (2). The trail is generally easy to follow, though you should pay attention to where rock barriers are put in place -- there are a lot of climber's trails that could lead you briefly astray (3). A small wash marks the back side of the valley, and you may notice how there is more green vegetation here (4). Shade, water, and wind protection form microclimates more suitables for pinyon pine and junipers to thrive than the barren flat desert outside these walls (5). Complete the loop hike and stop to consider the human impact on this landscape before heading back to your car (6).
