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Skull Rock
Skull Rock

Skull Rock

Skull Rock is a scenic attraction in the Joshua Tree National Park; a rock formation whose eerie resemblance to a skull makes it a must-see while in the park.

The formation got its name from its shape and two hollowed-out holes that create the resemblance of eye sockets.

Skull Rock, Hiking & Nature Trail, Location, Map, Joshua Tree National Park

It’s believed that the rock formation was once a giant boulder many years ago, but following the accumulation of rain droplets in the tiny pockets of the rock, the water gradually started eroding the stone. This erosion allowed for more water to collect, which eventually eroded the stone to create the holes that earned it its name today.

Skull Rock is easily accessible using the main east-west park road and is a favorite spot for visitors touring the park. Its obvious location means many visitors come to the park for the sole purpose of visiting and climbing the rock.

Depending on the time of the visit, it may be necessary to wait for the crowds to clear out before getting a chance to go up the rock. This is an easy climb for the whole family, and it is not unusual to have the kids crawl into the holes that make up the eye sockets for a photo or two.

Having explored the rock, simply get back on the roadside trail and follow the signage. The Skull Rock Trail is a 1.7-mile round trip that can be taken at any of several points along the route. The trailhead begins at the Jumbo Rocks Campground and is half a mile away from Skull Rock. From the rock, the trail leads to the north side of the park road, about 0.7 miles long.

There are numerous spots to sit and relax on the big boulders all the way to the camping site, with excellent photo opportunities too. Beautiful rock formations dot the landscape, and camping at the Jumbo site is a perfect way to savor this natural beauty. Tent camping and RV parking make the camping site ideal for a weekend getaway.

Skull Rock is a fascinating attraction in the park and is easily combined with other destinations in the park for an exciting adventure.

About the author

Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Las Vegas Travel Hub website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having visited Las Vegas many times and had the times of his life), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

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What is the Skull Rock address?
Joshua Tree National Park
Park Blvd, Twentynine Palms, CA

Please visit our website for more information on the Skull Rock.
What are the Skull Rock opening hours?
Open 24 Hours

Joshua Tree Visitor Center
Mon - Sun: 8am - 5pm

Please visit our website for more information on the Skull Rock.
What are the Skull Rock entry prices?
Entrance Fee: $30
Motorcycle Entrance Fee: $25
Individual Entrance Fee: $15

Please visit our website for more information on the Skull Rock.
What is the Skull Rock phone number?
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