Discover The Best Summer Hiking In Palm Springs

Palm Springs is known for its natural beauty and hiking in the desert is a great way to truly immerse yourself in all the wonders Mother Nature holds here. From June through September, some of the best summer hiking in Palm Springs can be found in the many oasis’s found in the desert. Ground water trickles its way up through ground fissures created by the fault lines in the area plus the San Jacinto mountains providing an ideal climate for the native California Fan Palm. Begin your exploration by checking out these popular oasis spots.

Indian Canyons

Located at the end of South Palm Canyon Drive, Indian Canyons is a collection of canyon spaces on the Cahuilla reservation. Among the oasis there is the nearly 15 mile long Palm Canyon, one of the most beautiful areas in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, and its abundant Washingtonia filifera (California Fan Palm) are breathtaking contrasts to the stark rocky gorges and barren desert lands beyond. A moderately graded, foot path winds down into the canyon for picnicking near the stream, meditating, exploring, hiking or horseback riding. A Trading Post is located at the trail-head for hiking maps, refreshments, Indian art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weaving, and conversational cultural lore,

Andreas Canyon

The contrasting greens of the magnificent fan palms and more than 150 species of plants within a half-mile radius beckon the desert-weary traveler to the lush oasis known as Andreas Canyon. Also located inside Indian Canyons, a scenic foot trail leads through the canyon passing groves of stately skirted palms, unusual rock formations and the perennial Andreas Creek. One can still see bedrock mortars and metates used centuries ago for preparing food. This tranquil setting is excellent for picnics at one of the numerous tables along the trail and bird watching. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve

The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve (part of the Coachella Valley Preserve) is a delightful haven with no user fees, though donations are greatly appreciated. On the northern side of the Coachella Valley, nestled at the foot of the Indio Hills, the Coachella Valley Preserve is “The Old West” just minutes from Palm Springs. Enjoy picnicking, hiking and the rustic visitor Center, the “Palm House.” There is more than 20,000 acres of desert wilderness, wildlife and 25 miles of trails to explore in the Coachella Valley Preserve. Guided hikes are provided during regular park hours of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May through September and from 7:00 am to 5:00 p.m. October through April.

Lost Palms Oasis

Joshua Tree National Park offers many fine hiking trail but the Lost Palms Oasis trail takes you a lush growth of California  fan palms noted for their stately beauty. The southernmost boundary of the park marks the confluence of several minor earthquake faults originating from the San Andreas fault line (about 20 miles southeast) which results in water seeping to the surface and the formation of the Lost Palms Oasis. Perfect for a day hike, you’ll experience stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you hike through washes and over plateaus. The San Jacinto mountains rise majestically towards the west as you explore the Lost Palms Oasis.

Enjoy A Personal Oasis at POSH Palm Springs Inn

A hallmark feature of any oasis is abundant water and POSH Palm Springs Inn surrounds a large refreshing pool perfect for a quick dip or just lounging around. Float in the pool while you soak up the desert sun and enjoy our complimentary happy hour complete with a frosty POSH martini from 4-5 pm. Check our availability and reserve your room now!

Photo Credit: Mira Bozhko, unsplash.com