Owl Canyon Trail – Rainbow Basin
Owl Canyon Trail in the Rainbow Basin Natural Area, near Barstow, California, is a moderate out-and-back hike known for its vibrant geology, distinctive rock formations, and scenic views of the Mojave Desert. The trail spans approximately 2.5 miles round trip with a gradual elevation gain, making it suitable for hikers of most skill levels.
This hike offers an immersive experience in a colorful desert canyon, including narrow passages and rock layers in striking hues. The best seasons to explore this trail are fall, winter, and spring, as summer temperatures can be extreme.
Check the weather report for rain before this hike, as the canyon could flash flood during heavy rain. Don’t enter the canyon if rain is forecast.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out and back |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Length | 2.5 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 300 feet |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 34.9645, -117.0029 |
| Location | Near Barstow, California |
| Best Season | Fall, Winter, Spring |
Getting to Owl Canyon Trail
To reach the Owl Canyon trailhead, take Interstate 15 to Barstow and exit onto Highway 58 heading west. After about 3.5 miles, turn north onto Irwin Road and follow it for approximately 6 miles until you reach Fossil Bed Road.
Turn left onto Fossil Bed Road and continue for about 2.9 miles until you reach Rainbow Basin Road. Turn right and follow the road for 1800 feet, then turn right again onto Owl Canyon Road, and follow it until it ends in a roundabout. You’ll see the sign for the trailhead. The road is unpaved but accessible to most vehicles under normal conditions.
Trail Overview
The Owl Canyon Trail offers a captivating journey through Rainbow Basin’s desert landscape, where multicolored rock layers reveal the geological forces that have shaped this unique area.
The trail begins near the Owl Canyon Campground and winds through the rocky terrain, soon revealing vibrant cliffs and narrow passages. As you venture deeper into the canyon, you’ll encounter an array of hues—reds, browns, greens, and grays—creating a natural palette distinct to the Mojave Desert.
The route features a blend of rocky paths, sandy sections, and mild scrambling as it gradually ascends. Though the elevation gain is minimal, parts of the trail may require careful footwork due to loose rock and uneven ground. Hikers will find a few narrower sections along the route, lending a sense of adventure as the canyon walls close in.
Geology enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of rock types visible in the canyon, including formations dating back millions of years. Rainbow Basin is known for its fossilized remains, and while exploring, hikers may come across rock layers revealing the area’s ancient past. Wildlife sightings, though rare, might include desert bighorn sheep or various bird species adapted to the harsh desert environment.
This trail provides an excellent opportunity to experience the Mojave Desert’s stark beauty up close. Due to the open exposure, sun protection and plenty of water are essential, especially on warmer days.
Camping
Owl Canyon Campground is a small, developed campground you pass on the way to the trailhead. This first-come, first-served campground offers 22 individual campsites suitable for tent and RV camping (without hookups) and provides basic amenities for a rustic camping experience.
