Barker Dam

For a fun hike with the whole family, Barker Dam in JT is a great option!

Barker Dam is a reservoir that was built by the original landowners in an attempt to save the small amount of water that this area receives.  This area is very dry, and if you want a chance to see the dam with water you’ll need to visit in Winter or early Spring.  Even if there is no water, this is still an interesting hike that is worth doing.

The hike is a loop and is just over 1 mile.  There is very little elevation gain, and the trail is soft and sandy.  This hike can be done by all skill levels and ages. There is very limited shade, and it can get very hot so be sure and start this hike early. You’ll want to be sure and wear closed-toed shoes, bring extra water and keep an eye out for snakes.  It is also the most popular hike in the park, so starting early can help keep you from being there when it is so crowded.

Along the hike, you’ll pass interesting boulders, Joshua Trees and if you are lucky, bighorn sheep.  It is also fun to look up to the boulders surrounding you and watch the rock climbers.

There is one part of the hike, just past the dam, that has a drop-off, so keep young kids close on this part.  As you loop past the dam, you will see a marked trail that leads to a cave with ancient petroglyphs.  A Disney movie was filmed here in 1961, and unfortunately, the film crew wanted the petroglyphs to stand out so they painted over some of the original shapes to make them brighter! There still are some originals though, and it’s a good lesson to talk to kids about preserving history and nature.

To get to Barker Dam follow the park boulevard until you see the parking lot.  It is well marked.  There are restrooms available here.  This parking lot will fill up so be sure and get there early! You can also connect your Barker Dam hike to the Wall Street Mill hike if you wish as both trailheads start from this parking lot.  They are well marked so it is easy to follow the correct path.