Hikes in Palm Springs
Palm Springs hikes are a spectacular pastime, even if it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the sizzling desert oasis that is Palm Springs. It tends to be more of a golf and sit-by-the-pool destination, but whenever your feet grow restless, you’ll find a network of trails worth exploring. Some cut through mountainscapes and others take you deep into a palm tree wonderland, but one thing is certain, setting out on any number of incredible Palm Springs Hikes will be sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your companions!
Some of the best regions to go hiking around Palm Springs are Agua Caliente Indian Reservation, which boasts the incredible Tahquitz Canyon. There’s also the Aerial Tramway area, which includes one of the toughest adventures in the USA—Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds. Discover more amazing Palm Springs hikes below!
10 Amazing Hiking Routes in Palm Springs
Looking for amazing hikes in Palm Springs? We’ve got you covered. The hikes below detail our favorite walking adventures, all replete with stunning scenery, whether you’re chasing after mountain views or desert imagery.
- Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail - Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail packs a punch for a short hike. Bring the kids along and explore a trail flanked by boulders before surmounting to a valley view at the highest point. You’ll also pass a waterfall! Note that the waterfall dries in the summer months, so you have a better chance of catching it at its actual velocity come winter.
- Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail - Looking for a challenging half-day excursion? Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail will fulfill your need! Enjoy a trail lined with trees as you wind to the top, where the Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout awaits. Bask in the layers of mountain peaks before turning around and heading back the way you came. You can bring your dog along on this adventure!
- Palm Canyon Trail - The Palm Canyon Trail is a fantastic hiking adventure for the entire family! Let your imagination run wild as you explore a palm tree wonderland set against a dry desert backdrop. It’s hard not to love this short, rewarding excursion.
- Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds - The Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds sits atop experienced hikers’ bucket lists across the United States. You can’t complete this insane hike without training for it first! At the top, you can relax knowing you can skip walking down what you just walked up and take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway instead.
- Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls - The Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls is a kid-friendly, easy-going trail that boasts a highlight reel of scenery: boulders, a 20-foot waterfall, and a hilly background. Enjoy the palm trees bordering the path, too! If you want to catch the water flowing, it’s best to tackle this hike in winter or spring.
- Garstin Loop Trail - The Garstin Loop Trail is a Palm Springs gem! If you’re looking for a workout paired with outstanding scenery, the Garstin Loop Trail doesn’t fail to provide one. Revel in the views of Palm Springs sprawled across the valley below.
- Fern Canyon Trail - Dedicate a couple of hours to exploring the stunning sandy wash along the Fern Canyon Trail. The entire trail brims with beauty punctuated by cacti lining the path, but the real beauty comes when you reach the canyon decorated with palms and ferns. This track is a Palm Springs gem!
- Victor Loop Trail - Victor Loop Trail unveils a highlight reel of Palm Springs in one remarkable adventure! Encounter a palm tree wonderland, a mountain background, and a sprawling valley below. This is an excellent hike to try with kids—just be sure to brush up on rattlesnake safety before you go.
- Araby Trail - Explore the desert and fit a decent workout in? Araby Trail knows how to simultaneously elevate heart rates through its enchanting scenery and intense incline. Walk by cacti, exciting rock formations, and mountain scenery as you make your way to the sweeping Palm Springs view.
- South Lykken Trail - Looking for a long, challenging hike in Palm Springs? The South Lykken Trail is a taxing but rewarding adventure that keeps you entertained, thanks to possible bighorn sheep glimpses. Don’t expect shade, though—bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and snacks!
When is the Best Time to Hike in Palm Springs?
The best time to hike in Palm Springs is between October to March when the sizzling desert heat fizzles to a reasonable adventure temperature; however, it is possible to hike in the summer. Just aim to head out early to beat the exhausting afternoon heat when exploring any of the above mentioned Palm Springs hikes.
Other Outdoor Activities in Palm Springs
While Palm Springs hikes are certainly popular, golf is the activity that likely sits at the top of the list for many outdoor enthusiasts in Palm Springs. Conversely, ATVing along the miles of open desert plains can be quite the thrilling antithesis of golf. Of course, there’s also mountain biking—several hiking trails serve as mountain bike and horse riding routes!
Fantastic Adventure Tours near Palm Springs
While we do not currently offer any adventure tours in Palm Springs, there are plenty of other amazing tours to be experienced throughout the state of California. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning your next trip, be sure to check out our collection of California Tours and leave the planning to the professionals!
Frequently Asked Questions About Palm Springs
Why is Palm Springs so popular?
People flock to Palm Springs for its sun, golf, and overall resort-town feel.
What is the rainiest month in Palm Springs?
You can expect the most rain in Palm Springs in February. But it doesn’t even rain a lot! Expect around 1.5 inches of precipitation.
Do you need a car in Palm Springs?
While a car grants ultimate roaming freedom, having a car in Palm Springs is optional. You’ll find that several hikes start close enough to town, too. However, a car is always a good bet if you want to venture.
Find other fantastic hiking regions in California
Best Hikes in Palm Springs
Gene Autry Trail Sidewalk
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.
User Ratings
Tahquitz Peak Loop Hike
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.
User Ratings
Garstin Loop Trail
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!
User Ratings
Simonetta Kennett Viewpoint via South Lykken Trail
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.
User Ratings
Murray Hill Loop Hike
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).
User Ratings
Cahuilla Canyon Trail
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.
User Ratings
Palm Canyon and Vandeventer Trail
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.
User Ratings
Fern Canyon Trail
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.
User Ratings
North Lykken Trail to Palm Springs Art Museum
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.
User Ratings
Berns Trail
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!
User Ratings
Victor Loop Trail
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.
User Ratings
Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail
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!
User Ratings
Palm Canyon Trail
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!
User Ratings
Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds
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.
User Ratings
Jane’s Hoffbrau Oasis Trail
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!
User Ratings
Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls
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.
User Ratings
Araby Trail
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.
User Ratings
Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station
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).
User Ratings
Palm Springs Museum and North Lykken Trail
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!
User Ratings
South Lykken Trail
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).