Begin 2026 on a Healthy Note with a First Day Hike at Saddleback Butte State Park
Contact:
Callista Turner, Interpreter II
(661) 946-6092
What you need to know: Visitors can choose from three hike options, ranging from a leisurely, ADA-accessible nature walk to a heart-pumping summit climb
LANCASTER — Start the New Year with fresh air and stunning views by joining a free First Day Hike at Saddleback Butte State Park (SP). Visitors are invited to join staff and volunteers on Thursday, Jan. 1, on an exploration of this uniquepark filled with Joshua trees, rugged buttes, and wide-open desert vistas.
Participants can choose from three hike options:
- 9a.m. – Hike to Saddleback Butte Peak (self-guided): This strenuous 5-mile hike gets your heart pumping and rewards you with striking views. Plan for around three hours of hiking and 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The summit can be very windy. No scrambling required.
- 10a.m. – Loop Hike Across the Park (guided): This easy-to-moderate 3.5-mile loop takes you through the park’s creosote bushes and Joshua trees while offering sweeping views of local buttes and pauses to observe wildlife and enjoy the landscape. Plan for under two hours of hiking with minimal elevation gain.
- 11a.m. – Dowen Nature Trail (guided): This easy 0.5-mile guided interpretive walk is great for all ages and ability levels. You will learn about the unique ecological communities and cultural histories of the park. Plan for an approximately one-hour walk with frequent stops and mild elevation gain. The trail is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
Hikes begin promptly; please arrive early to check in and prepare. Here’s what else you need to know:
Location: Saddleback Butte SP is located approximately 15 miles east of Lancaster. Check-in locations:
- For the Saddleback Butte Peak Hike and Loop Hike:
Campground, 17071 East Avenue K, Lancaster, CA 93535
- For the Dowen Nature Trail Hike:
Visitor Center, 17102 East Avenue J, Lancaster, CA 93535
Parking: Available in the campground area and day-use area near the visitor center. Entry and parking is free for participants of this event.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
What to Bring: Visitors are encouraged to check the weather in advance and be prepared for windy conditions. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, and/or a lunch to enjoy at the park’s picnic areas after returning from a hike.
Pet Policy: Dogs are not allowed on park trails, except for service animals.
Contact: For more information, contact(661) 946-6092 or Mojave.Sector@parks.ca.gov
About Saddleback Butte SP
Located on the western edge of the Mojave Desert about 15 miles east of Lancaster, the parkpreservesthe butte and the park’s native Joshua Tree woodlands, as well as other plants and animals that were once common throughout this high desert area. The park is home to wildlife such as coyotes, kit foxes, desert tortoises, jack rabbits, many kinds of snakes and lizards, andbirds such as golden eagles, hawks, ravens, owls, wrens, and mountain bluebirds. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, horse riding and stargazing.
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California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.