Hiking Trails in Palm Springs

Pack your hat, sunscreen and hiking shoes because it’s the perfect temperature for hiking in Palm Springs! Coachella Valley is filled with incredible hikes for all skill levels. Some take you through Indian Reservations, others to a palm tree oasis and you might see some wildlife along the way. Plan your trip to some of these most scenic hikes around Palm Springs that the whole family can enjoy!

Indian Canyons

There are several trails within the Indian Canyons whether you are looking for an easy stroll, a moderate climb or a strenuous trek. When planning your trip, note that there is an admission fee and consider joining a ranger-led interpretive hike at no additional cost. Some of the hikes include Andreas Canyon, Victor Trail and Indian Potrero.

Andreas Canyon

Length: 1.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

One of the easiest hikes in the Indian Canyons is the Andreas Canyon at just over one mile roundtrip and less than 200 feet elevation. This trail is considered the world’s second largest California Fan Palm oasis. Walk along the creek and loop around to follow it back upstream. Stop periodically to take in the views of the desert environment and rock formations.

Victor Trail

Length: 3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

This three mile climb takes you away from the vegetation of the palm trees and onto a ridge that overlooks the canyon. The Victor Trail is one of the most scenic routes in the Indian Canyon with over 350 feet of elevation. The best way to access this trail is by hiking a mile down the Palm Canyon Trail, one of the longest hikes in the canyons.

 

Indian Potrero

Length: 9 miles

Difficulty: Strenuous

The Indian Potrero Loop Trail is a strenuous trek that gives sight of native vegetation including patches of agave, ocotillo and Teddy-bear Cholla. The trail heads south and intersects with many other trails in the canyon. Following this trail south will eventually loop and bring you back north ending at about nine miles. This hike reaches over 1250 feet of elevation and is best for experienced hikers.

 

Eisenhower Peak

The Living Desert is home to many animals in the zoo exhibit but is also part of a nature preserve and backs Eisenhower Peak Mountain. Eisenhower Peak has three different loops that can be accessed through the Living Desert Zoo and the daily entrance fee. The three loops—Inner Loop, Middle Loop and Wilderness Loop—are designed to give everyone a chance to see the nature preserve at their own pace.

Length: .25 – 5 miles – depends on the loop

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Inner Loop is the easiest of the three at only a quarter mile long with a flat and sandy path. The Middle Loop is about a mile long and offers more excitement with views of the San Andreas Fault. The Wilderness Loop is for the experienced and adventurous. From the intersection of the Middle Loop, it is an additional 3.5 miles with an elevation at 1000 feet. This narrow trail gives you an untouched view of the native landscape with an opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. A covered picnic area is at the peak and gives beautiful views of Eisenhower Peak.

 

Cove to Lake Trail – La Quinta

Length: 2.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Take this peaceful trail to the top of La Quinta Cove for beautiful views. Start at Lake Cahuilla and pass through a slope with a view of The Quarry at La Quinta Golf Club. Stop at the top of the cove with other hikers that come from different trails. Alternately, park your car near the top and head down toward the lake. On a sunny day, you might see Desert Bighorn Sheep grazing the fields.

 

Randall Henderson Loop Trail

Length: 2.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

This hike is a few miles long with optional shortcuts along the way that make it a shorter and easier hike for your little ones. Take in the desert scenery and surroundings during the fall and winter season. It is best to walk the Randall Henderson Trail when the temperatures are low and comfortable to walk in. Be mindful of some closures meant to protect the Bighorn Sheep.

Thousand Palms Oasis in the Coachella Valley Preserve

Head over towards Thousand Palms Canyon in the Coachella Valley Preserve for a day filled with family friendly trails. See clusters of palm trees and views in every direction. With nine different trails through this preserve, there will be a trail suitable for all the hikers in your group.

 

McCallum Pond Trial

Length: 2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

The views of lush fan palm trees, desert landscape and the San Andreas Fault make this trail worth the hike. The McCullum Pond is formed by the seismic activity of the fault with the help of underground springs that help fill it. You might see some of the aquatic wildlife like small lobsters or Desert Pupfish.

 

Hidden Palms Loop

Length: 5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

While this trail has some slopes to climb through, it can easily be walked in a few hours. You will have sights of vegetation, cactus varieties and if they are in bloom, some wildflowers. Once you reach the middle of the loop, there will be a hidden pocket of native fan palm trees with a sightline of the city.

Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail

Length: 1.8 miles

Difficulty: Strenuous

The Tahquitz Canyon is one of the most beautiful and culturally sensitive areas of the Cahuilla Indians Reservation. It has beautiful views of native desert landscape and a 60 foot seasonal waterfall down a rocky backdrop. This trail is steep, rocky and narrow in some areas with many rock steps to climb and jump through. The trail loops to Tahquitz Falls and back with incredible views of Palm Springs.

Are you ready to make the most of your visit to Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley? Stay at Indian Palms Vacation Club to keep the desert oasis vibes all around you and enjoy the pool after a day of hiking adventures! Simply book online or call (877) 867-6506.
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