Eureka Peak is a strenous ride in the Covington Flats section of Joshua Tree National Park. Most bikers prefer to take the California Riding and Hiking Trail to the summit road and go on from there. Still, there are those who park at the bottom of the summit trail itself and bike up the mountain from that point.

The actual peak is the third highest in the park after Quail Mountain and Queen Mountain first and second respectively. However, the other two are closed to biking thus making Eureka the highest accessible on road.

The peak is part of what's known as the Little San Bernardino Mountains, an extension of the much higher San Bernardinos to the west. The range overlooks the Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault down 5,000 feet below.

The summit road is open to 4-wheel drive vehicles which may occassionally wrench up and down the mountain. Watch for them while biking to avoid a collision.

Trail Description

Sunset in Lower Covington Flat.

The road is a strenuous 3-mile round trip climb and descent up and down 1,000 feet. Trail quality will degrade with precipitation which may come in the form of thunderstorms; common in this part of the desert.

The California Riding and Biking Trail is a bit easier and less steep as it climbs up from the Black Rock Canyon Campground to the road. Even so, the trail still has much of the same environment as the road which the route goes onto in Upper Covington.

The road is slightly sandy off to the side though the ride isn't technical. Views accompany the rider all along the way.

Getting There

The Eureka Peak Road is only a few miles from Yucca Valley to the north. From there, the La Contenta Road dives south and up into Lower Covington Flat. The Eureka Peak road is found shortly after that with a marked sign.

Another alternative is to take instead, the California Riding and Hiking Trail from the Black Canyon Campground area to Eureka Peak Road. Then head uphill onward to the peak. The campground can be reached from Yucca Valley as well by turning off CA-62 at Joshua Lane.

When to Bike

The bike can be done year-round though every season has their advantages and disadvantages.

In winter, snow may occasionally fall. The road may be slippery near the top. However, due to precipitation, air quality is at its purest and the view is at finest.

In spring, thunderstorms may be heard and seen. Lightning may be a danger in the later part of the season. Due to this though, wildflower bloom is at its peak and may add a colorful delight.

The peak may just offer the place to cool off in summer. The peak is up to 10 degrees cooler than the surrounding areas and 25 degrees cooler than the desert valleys below. However, smog may accumulate at this time and the view may not be as good.

Fall is the peak of fire season. Fires may occasionally burn the little grass which is here. However, being fall, you may find the reddish colors appearing off in the distance which makes a great photography moment.