Oases come in many forms. The classic fan palm oasis, found at Fortynine Palms Oasis, generates a lot of interest due to its rare geology and flora (1). However, it's the naturally forming springs and tanks, like you'll find at Willow Hole, that support the majority of wildlife in arid climates like the Mojave Desert. Not only does this trail arrive at a beautiful destination full of green willow trees, it also provides one of the only established routes into the Wonderland of Rocks.
Begin this hike from the Boyscout trailhead along Park Boulevard, just east of Quail Springs. Unlike many of the rugged and/or sandy trails found at Joshua Tree, Willow Hole covers a lot of it's 7.2 mile distance on easy to follow, hard-packed trails. The first section follows the Boyscout Trail along a well defined corridor heading nearly straight north. After 1.25 miles, at the base of a prominent ridge, Willow Hole branches off to the right (2) leaving Boyscout to continue towards Indian Cove. For another 1.15 miles the trail maintains its well defined route as it curves along the western threshold of the Wonderland (3).
The Wonderland of Rocks is an appropriately named maze of White Tank monzogranite. This area runs north to Indian Cove, east to Barker Dam, south to Park Boulevard, and west to the Willow Hole Trail. Rock climbers are some of the only people who venture into this labyrinth seeking quality routes up the rock faces. Willow Hole is nestled right in the middle of things and provides a great look into this remarkable area.
After a total of 2.4 miles of travel, the well-packed trail suddenly dips into a large wash and stays there for the remainder of the hike (4). Luckily, you only have 1.2 miles of travel left at this point. Pay special attention through this section, because multiple other washes join up which makes the navigation on the return journey a little more challenging. Look behind you and remember some landmarks for the way back. While the walking gets tougher, the scenery gets vastly more interesting as you puncture the Wonderland's western threshold. About a quarter-mile from Willow Hole you turn sharply north, passing through a natural rocky gate and entering into a huge sandy wash (5). Slog through this remaining short section and enjoy the sights of shady willows at the end of the canyon (6).
Pockets of water bubble up and are trapped by the natural rock tank found along the opposite end of Willow Hole. This seasonal water attracts a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, and provides the microclimate necessary to sustain water-loving flora. Enjoy your well earned shade and explore the nearby canyons before retracing the route back to the trailhead.
