01
Best all-around pick
Mojave Narrows Regional Park – Horseshoe Lake Loop
Victorville River Corridor • Lakeside Desert Park With Easy Walking Paths • Best For Relaxed Family Walks
An easygoing loop around lakes and the Mojave River that feels surprisingly green for the High Desert.
If you want a mellow outing without a long drive, Mojave Narrows is the go-to choice from Adelanto. The Horseshoe Lake Loop winds through cottonwoods and along calm water, with plenty of birdlife and benches to break things up. Trails are mostly flat and well-marked, so it works for strollers, casual walkers, and mixed-ability groups.
02
Best desert summit
Shadow Mountain
Northern Mojave Desert Near Adelanto • Remote Volcanic Peak With Rugged Desert Terrain • Best For Sunrise And Sunset Vistas
A short but rough climb up a lonely desert peak with big-sky views in every direction.
Shadow Mountain feels wild and remote despite being relatively close to town, with rough jeep tracks leading to footpaths up the volcanic slopes. The hike is exposed and rocky, but the payoff is a panoramic view of the Mojave and the distant San Bernardino Mountains. Go early or late in the day for cooler temperatures and dramatic light on the surrounding badlands.
03
Best history hike
Rabbit Hole Mine Trail
Helendale Backcountry • Historic Mine Route Across Open High Desert • Best For History-Minded Hikers
A gentle desert walk to an old mining site, mixing Mojave scenery with a bit of High Desert history.
The Rabbit Hole Mine Trail follows old tracks through sparse Joshua trees and low, rolling hills to a cluster of historic mine remnants. It’s more about atmosphere than elevation gain, with long views and the occasional rusted artifact reminding you of the area’s mining past. Bring good footwear and a sense of curiosity, and treat any structures or relics with care.
04
Best quick local climb
Resurrection Hill
East Side Of Adelanto • Short But Steep Hill Climb With Big-Sky Views • Best Quick Workout Close To Town
A brisk, no-nonsense climb straight up a desert hill that rewards you with wide-open views over Adelanto and Victor Valley.
Resurrection Hill is where locals head when they want a cardio hit without leaving the immediate area. The route is straightforward but can be steep and loose in spots, so expect a bit of huffing and puffing on the way up. From the top, you get a surprisingly expansive look at the valley, city grids, and the surrounding desert ridges.
05
Best adventure day trip
Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail via Bowen Ranch Road
Deep Creek Canyon Region • Strenuous Canyon Trek To Riverside Hot Springs • Best Adventurous Full-Day Outing
A demanding out-and-back hike that drops into a dramatic canyon and ends at iconic hot springs along Deep Creek.
For strong hikers willing to travel a bit farther from Adelanto, Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a true adventure with a clear reward at the turnaround. The trail descends steadily to the creek, which means a noticeable climb on the way out, and summer heat can make the exposed slopes feel intense. Time your visit carefully, carry plenty of water, and you’ll be treated to clear pools, granite boulders, and one of the region’s classic High Desert experiences.