Palm Springs Hiking: the Definitive Guide

Palm Springs is truly a hiking mecca with stunning mountains, sprawling deserts, and surpassing natural beauty. Tucked within its expansive purview is an extensive network of recreation areas and trails, from in-town lung-busters to further afield National Parks. In this guide, we'll explore some top hiking spots, essential items to bring, when to hike, and even where to stay. Happy trails!

Top Hiking Spots in Palm Springs

1. Bump and Grind Trail

Location: Rancho Mirage, 25-minute drive

The Bump and Grind Trail, one of the most popular hikes in the Palm Springs area, is a short yet punchy loop that offers epic scenery and a great workout in equal measure. This 4-mile trail winds through the beautiful foothills and features an overall elevation gain of about 1,400 feet. One of the main attributes of the Bump and Grind Trail is the unique opportunity to spot the Peninsular Bighorn Sheep. Parts of the trail are closed seasonally (from February 1 to April 30) to protect these sheep, especially during their lambing season.

2. Tahquitz Canyon Trail

Location: In-town, 10-minute drive

Spanning approximately 2 miles, the moderately challenging Tahquitz Canyon Trail offers a rewarding excursion just a mere 10-minute drive from downtown Palm Springs. The trail is celebrated for its stunning natural features, including the breathtaking 60-foot Tahquitz Falls, which serves as a spectacular centerpiece when it hasn’t been too dry. Hikers are treated to a diverse array of flora and fauna, alongside captivating rock formations and ancient cultural sites. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural history, and accessibility, the Tahquitz Canyon Trail stands out as a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

3. Indian Canyons

Location: South Palm Springs, 15-minute drive

Located in the southern part of Palm Springs, Indian Canyons is a stunning nature preserve covering over 31,500 acres. Managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, it serves as part of their reservation lands. Visitors to Indian Canyons can experience awe-inspiring canyons, distinctive rock formations, a lush tapestry of palm groves, and roughly 60 miles of trails. Some standouts include: 

•  Murray Canyon - A moderately challenging 4-mile trail that leads through a palm oasis, eventually reaching the seasonal Seven Sisters Waterfall, a series of seven cascading falls.
•  Palm Canyon - A 15-mile DIY out-and-back adventure that you can tailor to your ability or interest levels. Hike as far as you’d like through a maze of California Fan Palms and greenery.
•  Andreas Canyon - An easy 1-2 mile loop through the world’s second-largest California Fan Palm oasis. Feast your eyes on more than 150 plant species hugging the life-giving waters of Andreas Creek.

4. Joshua Tree National Park

Location: Approximately 40 miles east of Palm Springs, 45-minute drive

While not in Palm Springs proper, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers. The park features world-renowned rock formations, otherworldly Joshua Trees, and numerous trails that range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Hidden Valley Trail, Barker Dam Trail, and Ryan Mountain Trail, each offering a distinct desert experience.

5. Mount San Jacinto State Park

Location: Adjacent to Palm Springs, 15-minute drive

For those seeking a more alpine hiking experience, Mount San Jacinto State Park is the place to go. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you from the desert floor to an elevation of 8,516 feet, where you can explore pristine pine forests and cooler temperatures. Hike along the Long Valley Trail, the Round Valley Loop, or challenge yourself with the Cactus to Clouds Trail, a rigorous hike for experienced adventurers.

6. Coachella Valley Preserve - Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve

Location: Northeast of Palm Springs, 30-minute drive

The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is a hidden gem in the desert, known for its serene palm-lined trails. This desert oasis starkly contrasts the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Explore the McCallum Trail, which takes you through the heart of this lush oasis, or venture into the Pushawalla Palms Loop for a more extended hike.

7. Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds

Not many places can boast of having the “hardest day hike in the world,” according to Backpacker Magazine. Palm Springs can. The Cactus to Clouds route, mainly along the Skyline Trail, is a no-nonsense, no-holds-barred, no-brainer for serious hikers. In terms of mileage, you’re looking at about 20 miles round trip. In terms of elevation, we’re talking 11,000 feet of climbing. In short, this hike is the mackdaddy of Southern California hiking, a true bucket list behemoth for those up to the (significant) challenge.

What to Bring Hiking in Palm Springs

When hiking in Palm Springs, it's crucial to come prepared. Here's a list of essential items to bring:

1. Sunscreen - The desert sun can be intense, so apply sunscreen generously before hitting the trails. Opt for a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's rays.

2. Plenty of Water - Dehydration sneaks up on you quickly in the desert! Since the weather is so dry, you often sweat far more than you think; it just evaporates more quickly. Staying hydrated is paramount, so bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout your hike and sip consistently. Consider a hydration pack to make it easier to drink on the go. 

3. Wide-Brimmed Hat - A wide-brimmed hat provides essential shade for your face and neck, helping you stay cool and protected. Any “cool points” you might lose will be more than made up for when you’re in the tiki bar later with skin that doesn’t look like a tomato or raspberry.

4. UV-Protective Sunglasses - Invest in a pair of UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the glare of the desert sun and reduce the risk of eye damage.

5. An Extra Layer - When the temperatures are in the 80s, and the sun is beating down like a sledgehammer, bringing a mid-weight pullover or jacket might be the last thing on your mind. But remember: once the sun sets in the desert or moves behind a mountain, the temperatures can drop fast. It’s a good idea to bring an extra layer—especially if you’re embarking on a sunset hike!

When to Hike in Palm Springs

Palm Springs offers hiking opportunities year-round. For the best experience, consider the weather and temperature when planning your hike:

Fall and Winter (October to March)

Fall and winter are ideal for hiking in Palm Springs, as the temperatures are mild and comfortable. Daytime highs range from the 60s to 70s°F, making it perfect for exploring the trails without the scorching heat of summer.

Spring (April to May)

Spring brings blooming desert wildflowers, adding a splash of color to your hikes. Temperatures start rising, so hiking in the early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday heat.

Summer (June to September)

The summer can be scorching in Palm Springs, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100°F. Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day, opt for early morning or late evening hikes when it's cooler outside, and always carry extra water.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

For a truly memorable experience, consider staying with ACME House Company. With a wide selection of luxury vacation rentals, you can easily find the perfect oasis after hiking in Palm Springs. ACME House Company offers everything from cozy bungalows to spacious estates, and with amenities like private pools, outdoor lounges, and fully equipped kitchens, you can tailor your stay to your unique preferences. 

In short, Palm Springs is a hiker's paradise. From lush palm oases to rocky desert formations, there's a hiking experience for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots, hit the trails, and explore the natural beauty of Palm Springs

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ABOUT ACME HOUSE COMPANY: Acme manages Luxury Vacation Rental Homes & Condos in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities, catering to those looking to travel to the world-renowned destination for the season, week-long stays and extended weekends. Fabulous pool homes for when you and your peeps want some together time. Visit Acme’s Website to explore more Palm Springs Vacation Rentals. 

Images courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs and Visit Palm Springs

Published on Thursday, January 18, 2024