Maze Loop, Window Trail, and North View Loop Run Review

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This was a very scenic run, and is one of the most recommended places to run in Joshua Tree. Is it really all that great?

Overview:

Pros:

• Amazing Views
• Not busy
• Long Loop
• Just inside the West Entrance

Cons:

• Max Grade of 26%
• Slippery rocks and loose ground
• Narrow Path

Amazing View:

The views on this trail are amazing, like many other places in Joshua Tree. You do gain a lot of elevation (853 ft), which allows for a very pretty view overlooking a lot of the park.

Not Busy + Long Loop:

While some of these trails are already filled up early in the morning, this one stays relatively empty. I went at around 7:30 and didn’t see a soul until the later parts of my run. Because it is such a long loop (7.2 mi.) you don’t see many people and it discourages only the most dedicated hikers / runners. You are also only on the Maze Loop trail for a little bit, which is really the only popular part of the trail.

Just Inside the West Entrance:

(West Entrance is from JT City)
Now this may seem like a con, but for many people an easy quick run is what you need, and unless you’re setting aside a big chunk of time, you don’t want to be driving for a while. Even being close to the entrance, there was nobody there when I went so it was nice and convenient.

Max Grade of 26% + Slippery:

This trail is very steep, with two extreme ups and two extreme downs. For me, it made my pace more than a minute slower, and that wasn't even counting the walks.

Counter clockwise: The first part of the run is pretty chill, with some scrambles and steeper sections. Once you get further in, however, it gets very steep. On the way back down, you’ll encounter some steps and slippery rocks that will slow your run. (I chose to do this one, some moments I had to walk it was so steep)

Clockwise: You will start off on the stairs and some rock scrambles, but once you go over the ridges on both “peaks” you may have to walk the steep parts down because it is very extreme and slippery in some parts.

Narrow Path:

The path gets very narrow at times, which means you’ll most likely have to walk to pass people as a courtesy. Also, if you mess up your footing, you are basically right into the plants.

Things to know:

• DOWNLOAD A MAP!!!!
• This area is known as the Maze Loop because you may loose your path if you loose concentration, so it is always good to have a backup.
• Arrive Early
• The parking is limited and can get filled up, and that also means the trails will have a lot of people on them later on in the day.

Summary:

This is a very fun path to run with beautiful views, but make sure to give yourself more time than usual and stay prepared with downloaded maps. It would also be good to tell someone about your plans as this is a rather strenuous run. Safe Running!