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Palm Canyon Trail

Palm Springs, California

4.5/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

1.94 miles

Elevation Gain

308 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sal Cavazos

Palm Canyon Trail offers spectacular mountain vistas, waterfalls, natural streams, rocky gorges and unusual rock formations.

The fifteen mile long Palm Canyon, one of the Indian Canyons, is among the most beautiful natural sites in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, expertly used by the Cahuilla people, and its abundant Washingtonia Filifera (California Fan Palm) stand in breathtaking contrast to the stark rocky gorges and barren desert lands, beyond. A moderately graded footpath winds down into the canyon, where you can hike, explore, ride horses, meditate, or picnic near the stream.

Keep in mind that much of this landscape is remote and challenging, however. Pack so that you could take care of yourself overnight, if necessary, and either hike with a friend, or notify a friend where you will be hiking and when you expect to return. Stay on the trail, and also beware of rattlesnakes by watching where you put your hands and feet, especially in warm weather when snakes are active.

Further note that cross-country travel and camping in Peninsular bighorn sheep habitats is prohibited from January 1 through September 30.

While in Palm Canyon, visit the Trading Post for hiking maps, refreshments, Indian art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weaving, and more. Palm Canyon is also close to Andreas Canyon and Murray Canyon.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife
ADA Accessible

Reviews

Be sure to check whether or not the Indian Canyons Reserve is open, we tried to get to this hike and apparently they close the reserve during certain times in the summer :(

We did the hike on Nov 30 and intended to go to the Stone Pools, but were told that the pools were dry. So, we only did about 2/3 of the hike there. The variation from oasis to desert was amazing and the views spectacular. A must do hike if you are in the area. There are other hikes within the Indian Canyons park. Also, highly recommend Andreas Canyon Loop.

Despite the picture there are palm oases that could be considered paradise. The best time to go is in March.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Indian Potrero Loop Trail

Indian Canyon West Fork Trail

Coffman Trail from Andreas Canyon Rd

Explore the Indian Canyons in Palm Springs

Murray Hill Loop

Berns Trail