Hikes in Palm Springs

The Gene Autry Trail Sidewalk takes you along an accessible sidewalk street adventure. Invite your friends—even strollers can handle this route—and enjoy a lovely morning or afternoon meander in Palm Springs, California.

The Tahquitz Peak Loop Hike takes you along a strenuous, punishing path hugged by nature towards the ever-so-rewarding Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout. Revel in the view of peaks stretching deep into the horizon! This trail isn’t for the faint of heart, so pack a lot of water and snacks. If you’re going in winter, microspikes are a must.

The Garstin Loop Trail in Palm Springs, California, is a local gem! If you’re looking for a quick, heart-pumping outing fused with phenomenal views of the valley etched below, consider taking this walk. Several users have reported that kids can come along, too!

The Simonetta Kennett Viewpoint via South Lykken Trail is the ultimate bang-for-your-buck adventure if you’re looking for a quick, moderately challenging hike! Plus, you’ll get to revel in vistas of the Palm Springs valley peppering the landscape below.

The Murray Hill Loop Hike is an adventure tailored for experienced and fit hikers. This hike is not for the faint of heart! However, the huffing, puffing, and leg burning will lead to the ultimate reward: peaks lining your sightline. (And phenomenal vistas of the valley of Palm Springs sprawled below).

Looking for an entertaining hike? The Cahuilla Canyon Trail is an unforgettable adventure in Palm Springs replete with palm trees fronting boulders, a desert landscape backed by mountains, and peppered with wildflowers. You’ll reach a lovely pool at the end, but it might be dried depending on how close to the summer months you hike.

The Palm Canyon and Vandeventer Trail is a phenomenal hike that winds through a palm tree oasis, where brown and green hues blend to create a spectacular image. If you’re in Palm Springs for a short time, this adventure deserves a spot on your list.

The Fern Canyon Trail in Palm Springs, California, follows along a beautiful sandy wash, creating a beach-like vibe. Enjoy a lovely walk along the wash before surmounting a moderate incline to stunning views! Unfortunately, you’ll have to leave your dog home for this adventure.

Looking for a good workout? North Lykken Trail to Palm Springs Art Museum takes you along a challenging trail to a great view of Palm Springs. You may even encounter bighorn sheep along the way! It’s best to visit this trail between October and March to avoid the intense desert heat in the summer.

Berns Trail packs a heart-pumping workout, incredible views of Palm Springs, and a mountainous backdrop into one phenomenal outdoor adventure. This hike can get confusing, thanks to a network of trails carved throughout the area, so be sure to download a GPS before going. Remember to pack a hat and sunscreen!

Victor Loop Trail packs the best of Palm Springs into one incredible trail: a palm tree oasis, mountainous backdrop, valley views, and desert terrain. The only downside? You’ll need to look out for rattlesnakes. Be sure to wear a hat, sunscreen, and bring lots of water. It’s best to head out early before the sizzling desert heat takes over.

The Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail immerses you in California’s rustic backyard, taking you to the incredible Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout and unveiling a scenic outlook of layers of mountains blending with the horizon. And the trail winding to the top, flanked by trees blocking out the rest of the world, will pump you much-needed fresh air. So pack some snacks and water, bring your dog, and enjoy a moderately challenging half-day adventure in the wild!

Bring your kids, a picnic, and prepare for an inspiring adventure through a palm tree oasis on the Palm Canyon Trail. This out-and-back adventure fuses tropical vibes with a rustic experience, creating the ultimate short but rewarding excursion for all ages. Unfortunately, while you can bring your kids, you’ll have to leave your pup at home!

The Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds ranks as one of the most strenuous hikes in the world! Yep—this hike will challenge you both mentally and physically. Therefore, training before attempting this crazy, rewarding adventure is essential. Luckily, once you've reached the peak, you can rest your legs and take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway down the mountain.

Jane's Hoffbrau Oasis Trail is a moderate hike that winds along a dirt road to an obstructed view of Palm Springs sweeping the valley below, followed by a canyon and Jane’s Hoffbrau Oasis, where another lovely lookout awaits. Bring your dog and family, and enjoy a morning (recommended) in nature!

The Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls winds through lush green palm trees flanking the trail, punctuated by a hilly backdrop, boulders, and a 6 m waterfall. It’s best to take on this hike in spring and winter when there’s still water in the waterfall at the end! The Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls is a kid-friendly adventure.

Araby Trail travels by cacti, mountain views, and fun rock formations to a gorgeous view of Palm Springs sweeping the valley below. This is a moderate hike that isn’t for the faint of heart! It pushes you to gain a decent amount of elevation in a short period, making it essential to pack a lot of water. One other thing to note is that dogs are allowed on a section of this trail. You’ll see a sign signalling when to turn around if you brought your furry friend. Be careful because there are reptiles along this trail.

The Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station is an extremely strenuous, technical hiking adventure in Palm Springs, California. Expect insane elevation gains and some route-finding—this trail is tailor-made for experienced hikers seeking a challenge. It’s not for the faint of heart! The best part is that you can take the tram down the mountain at the end (for a fee).

Looking for a quick leg burn? Lace up your hiking boots and set foot on the incredible Palm Springs Museum and North Lykken Trail that elevates your heart rate and winds to unreal views of the valley sprawled below. Aim to go early in the morning to beat the afternoon heat!

The South Lykken Trail is a punishing but rewarding hike that never fails to impress. The scenery en route, punctuated with possible bighorn sheep sightings, adds to the wonderment of this adventure! Expect some switchbacks, great views, and no shade. Bring lots of water and snacks (and sunscreen).