The 11.25 mile section between Juniper Flats (east) and Upper Covington Flats (west) is the California Riding and Hiking Trail's longest contiguous segment, rising gradually through miles of Joshua Tree flats into rugged canyon country and high plateaus on the edge of the Little San Bernadino Mountains where Joshua Trees grow in dense concentrations.

Passing the transition zone between Lost Horse Valley and Juniper Flats

The beautiful intertwining root system of a dead Joshua Tree

Desert shrubs provide cover and food for area fauna such as jackrabbits, coyotes and cougar

Animal scat - possibly from a coyote or a mountain lion on the CRHT from Keys View Road to Upper Covington Flats

Healthy Juniper and Joshua Trees present a colorful foreground to Mt. San Gorgonio

The trail passes through large, mature blooming Joshua Trees

A brilliant display of red color

Mars-like landscapes mark this section of the CRHT

Large boulders rest among desert understory with views as far as the eye can see

View of Mt San Gorgonio (11,499') from the California Riding and Hiking Trail

Joshua Trees were named by early settlers who were reminded of the Biblical story of Joshua - and how he reached his arms high in the air to pray

Views are vast along this section of the CRHT

While encounters are uncommon - mountain lions inhabit this remote area of Joshua Tree

Rugged mountains and harsh landscapes belie the great biodiversity of the CRHT

Good topographical and route finding skills are recommended for anyone hiking the CRHT