Palm Springs, California, is known for its sunny weather, luxury resorts, and vibrant cultural scene, but it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and towering mountains, Palm Springs offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk through a scenic canyon or a challenging trek to a mountain peak, there’s a hike for you. Here’s a guide to some of the best hikes to go on while vacationing in Palm Springs.
1. Palm Canyon Trail
Located in the Indian Canyons, the Palm Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Palm Springs, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural history. The trail begins at the Trading Post and leads hikers into a lush oasis lined with California fan palms, one of the largest natural palm oases in North America. The scenic hike takes you through a stunning canyon with flowing streams, vibrant flora, and towering palm trees, providing a serene and shaded environment. The Palm Canyon Trail offers various loops, allowing hikers to choose from shorter or longer routes, making it suitable for families and casual hikers.
2. Tahquitz Canyon Trail
The Tahquitz Canyon Trail is a relatively short but rewarding hike located just a few minutes from downtown Palm Springs. This 2-mile loop trail takes you through a beautiful desert canyon, showcasing ancient rock art, unique plant life, and a stunning 60-foot waterfall that flows seasonally. The trail is moderately challenging, with some rocky terrain and elevation gain, but the waterfall at the end is well worth the effort. Tahquitz Canyon is also a place of cultural significance for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and visitors can learn about the area's history at the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center.
3. Murray Canyon Trail
Another gem in the Indian Canyons, the Murray Canyon Trail offers a more adventurous hike that takes you deeper into the rugged desert landscape. This trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including streams, lush vegetation, and the possibility of spotting bighorn sheep. The highlight of the Murray Canyon Trail is Seven Sisters Falls, a series of small waterfalls that cascade into inviting pools, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. The trail is approximately 4 miles round trip and is moderately challenging, making it a great choice for hikers looking for a bit more of a challenge while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
4. Andreas Canyon Trail
For a shorter and easier hike that still offers stunning scenery, the Andreas Canyon Trail is a perfect choice. This 1-mile loop trail, also located in the Indian Canyons, takes you through a picturesque oasis lined with towering palm trees, a flowing stream, and unique rock formations. The Andreas Canyon Trail is one of the most scenic short hikes in Palm Springs, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. It’s a great option for families, beginners, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by nature.
5. Cactus to Clouds Trail
For experienced hikers seeking a true challenge, the Cactus to Clouds Trail is one of the most strenuous and rewarding hikes in the Palm Springs area. This trail begins at the Palm Springs Art Museum and ascends over 10,000 feet to the summit of Mount San Jacinto, covering more than 20 miles round trip. The trail takes you from the desert floor through a variety of ecosystems, offering stunning views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains. Hikers will encounter steep inclines, rocky terrain, and significant elevation gain, making it a test of endurance and fitness. Due to its difficulty, this hike is recommended only for experienced hikers who are well-prepared with adequate supplies, including water, food, and proper gear.
6. Coachella Valley Preserve – Thousand Palms Oasis
The Coachella Valley Preserve is located just a short drive from Palm Springs and offers a variety of trails that explore the unique desert ecosystem. One of the most popular hikes is the McCallum Trail, a 2-mile round trip hike that takes you through the Thousand Palms Oasis, showcasing a series of natural palm oases, rare desert plants, and wildlife. The preserve is a great place to learn about the ecology of the desert and enjoy a quiet, peaceful hike. The trails are relatively easy, making them accessible for families and casual hikers.
Palm Springs offers a diverse range of hiking experiences that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty and unique landscapes of the desert. Whether you’re hiking to hidden waterfalls, wandering through lush palm oases, or challenging yourself on a rugged mountain trail, these hikes provide a memorable way to connect with the stunning environment of Palm Springs. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and set out to explore the best trails that this desert paradise has to offer.
