Willow Hole Trail - A Lot of Bang for Your Buck

We hadn't been on this trail for a couple of years and had forgotten what a great hike this is. You head out on The Boy Scout Trail for a mile and a quarter, then branch right another two miles to Willow Hole. In the beginning, there are expansive views of the countryside, then the trail leads in to a wash through a canyon of rocks on both sides, with a great variety of vegetation: Pinyon Pine, Joshua Trees, Scrub Oaks, Yucca, Cholla... you name it, it's got everything. Eventually, you come around a turn in to a wide wash with large rock formations on either side. At the end, is a giant Willow Tree, which makes  for a nice, shady spot to have lunch. Don't forget the 'vittles' and a bottle of vino. A little nap in the shade after lunch, and you're ready for the hike back. Another wonderful day in Joshua Tree National Park.