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Section Of Joshua Tree National Park Closed To Allow Bighorns Access To Water

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Published Date

August 8, 2023

A section of Joshua Tree National Park has been closed to the public to allow bighorn sheep access to water/NPS

A northeastern section of Joshua Tree National Park in California has been closed to visitors so desert bighorn sheep can have undisturbed access to a water hole there.

The park is under drought conditions, and herds in the area are increasingly reliant on the Fortynine Palms Oasis spring to survive the hot summer months. The closure will remain in place until October 1, or until summer monsoons provide adequate rainfall to increase water availability. Park wildlife biologists will be monitoring the situation.

Hikers should be prepared to use other trails in the park but must use extreme caution. All hikes should be planned to begin at or before sunrise and end by 10 a.m. or planned to not begin until after 5 p.m. Hiking in the middle of the day is not recommended. Summer temperatures on exposed parts of park trails can reach over 120° Fahrenheit (49° C) in the shade.

Hiking in extreme heat can lead to serious health risks, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hyponatremia, and death.

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