In early February, I decided to take a trip out to Joshua Tree National Park (stunning), But we’ll get to that a little later. What I found on the way was nothing short of amazing.
Just an hour west of one of California’s most beautiful national parks, and surrounded by the majestic San Jacinto and San Isabel mountains, lies the beautiful city of Palm Springs. As an avid hiker, I usually don’t get that excited about the cities that lie on the way to my adventures, but this one was different, wayyyy different.
If a beautiful desert park, a sunny city filled with palm trees, and Mid-century modern architecture had a baby, that baby would most certainly be Palm Springs. I enjoyed walking through the maze of timeless and elegant homes, and the wide array of fine dining and art parks, almost as much as I did the natural wonders and miles of hiking trails that surround the city.
Miles of Hiking Trails:
There are a TON of hiking options in Palm Springs, everything from a quick and easy hike up to a sweeping view of the city, to longer more difficult options. In one day you could see a waterfall stand on top of a mountain, cross some gorgeous open desert surrounded by Yucca and Cactus, and still be home in time for an amazing dinner in the downtown area.
Where it reallyy starts getting good is that all of these visually diverse trails CONNECT, meaning you could easily map out a trail that circumnavigates the city, if you’re a more advanced hiker. So of course with the help of the TTK team, that is EXACTLY what I did. The result: 30 miles of the most visually diverse, trails I have ever hiked on, paired with a vibrant cultural experience and potentially topped with the world’s best chicken sandwich of all time (more on that later).
The Spots:
These can be done individually as a fun day/afternoon hikes, or connected for the more advanced thru-hike. It could also be done over multiple days if you’ve got some time to kill!
Cahuilla Peak:
As you wind up a scenic hill surrounded by some iconic Palm Springs homes (Including Bob Hope’s old house), the views of the city keep getting bigger and bigger. This hike on the Araby Trail is known for its dense mountain goat population, I saw almost a dozen on the way up! You’re rewarded at the top with some panoramic views of the city to your north and the wild-looking snow-capped San Isabel Mountains to the North. You can either continue a loop down back to your car, or head deeper into the mountains towards a scenic desert plateau.
Wild Horse and Fern Canyon Trails:
If you keep heading north after Cahuilla Peak, you’ll connect to the Wild Horse trail, which then connects to the Fern Canyon trail. This is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL stretch of desert and one of my personal favorite segments. The first mile leaving Cahulla is a bit tough, but once you reach the plateau, you’ll be rewarded with some easy and flat terrain. There is a rich biodiversity of cacti, Yucca, jackrabbits, lizards, and other desert life. There’s no water here so be sure to bring at least three liters, as you won’t be able to fill up until you get to Palm Canyon.
Palm Canyon:
This one is a REAL treat and sets a trend for the next few segments of the hike. There’s a MASSIVE string of springs along this part, leading to a large number of huge oases, picture clear water running through a gorgeous desert canyon with all manner of plant life and birds popping up, surrounded by brilliant snow-capped mountains. One of the most prominent plants around these springs is a large number of fan leaf palms. Yep, just row after row of palm trees, following these rare desert springs…. I still can’t figure out why they call it Palm Springs though?? If you’d like to experience Palm Canyon as a less intense hike, it can be easily driven to for $15.
West Fork Trail:
Probably the most difficult segment of the trail, but also had some of the best views, I started early at dark and got a gorgeous sunrise. This segment travels parallel to the beautiful snow-capped Mount San Jacinto. After you start the climb out of Palm Canyon, you’ll travel up some switchbacks until you reach a ridge. From there, you’ll have mountains to your left, and gorgeous sweeping views of the city on your right. Eventually, the trail dips back down into another beautiful Oasis.
Andrea’s Canyon:
I know what you’re thinking… I’ve already seen a Palm Canyon, why on earth would I want to see another??? Great question! I’m glad you asked. Aside from being gutwrenchingly beautiful and visually diverse, this one features the Seven Sisters Waterfall! Desert waterfalls are far and in between, and it’s certainly a refreshing sight after being on the mostly dry West Fork trail. This is another great spot that’s a short drive from the downtown area and features parking for $15.
A Scenic Journey through the Suburbs:
In between Andreas Canyon, and your next scenic destination, is a roughly 2-mile walk through some gorgeous Palm Springs suburbs. If you’re doing the full trail, this is a nice break from the surrounding wilderness, and walking on foot is a great way to see all of the beautiful architecture that the city is known for. This is also a great time to grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant before you make your way over to your next trail.
South Lykken Trail:
Home to the gorgeous Simonetta Kennett viewpoint, this trail straddles a gorgeous mountain with beautiful eastward views. This is a great day hike with ample free parking, and there are picnic tables located at nice views near the beginning if you’re just looking for a nice easy viewpoint to have lunch at.
North Lykken Trail:
While the views of the North Lykken Trail may be similar to its southern cousin, it has many new features that make it unique. Especially the ending! After another short and flat road walk through a bucolic neighborhood, you’ll start a steep but short climb, then walk along a mostly flat ridge, enjoying the scenic views, and large population of birds. The trail finishes at none other than the Palm Springs Art Museum! The seamless transition from nature to fine art was soooo fun, and honestly, not something I’ve found anywhere else in my travels.
Downtown Palm Springs:
After enjoying all that the art museum has to offer, You can begin a stroll down the main strip of Palm Springs. This vibrant and alive street has it all, restaurants, galleries, parks, and shops. I passed by the TTK office and had to resist the urge to go inside and buy a home that second. No hike is complete without a massive meal at the end of it, however, there were almost too many great options to choose from. I ended up at “Chicken Ranch”. One massive fried chicken sandwich, and a spicy orange margarita later, I was ready to hit a hotel for a hot shower and a good night’s sleep before driving the hour’s trip up to Joshuatree the next morning.
Palm Springs In a Nutshell:
I had expected just another nice desert city filled with the usual hustle and bustle, but what I experienced was a unique suburban playscape that was completely unique. I was VERY surprised to have such great hiking in this urban of a setting.
Whether you’re looking to just drop in, or perhaps even seek a new residence, Palm Springs is one of the most amazing places I’ve ever visited. The city itself certainly holds a candle to any of its larger counterparts. And its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, PERFECT weather, and stunning landscapes rocket Palm Springs to the top of my list for sure. From a hiking perspective, it gets even better, just 15 minutes from a trailhead you are greeted by national park-like views, and there’s adventures of all kinds waiting to be had just minutes from your backyard.
I think that If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing desert getaway, Palm Springs is the perfect destination. With plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy, as well as plenty of outdoor spaces and natural beauty to help you relax, you’ll love this unique corner of California.