Want to hike the Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs? I’ve got you covered! The rugged trails are gorgeous and should not be missed! If you’re planning on hiking Palm Canyon Trail, this guide will set you up for an easy trip. Let’s get into it!
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Indian Canyons Quick Links:
- Best Hotel Near Indian Canyons: El Morocco Inn and Spa
- Best Tour of Indian Canyons: Indian Canyons Hiking Tour By Jeep
- Most Important Items to Pack: A hydrations backpack, rugged trekking sandals, and a wide brim hat are non-negotiables!
If you’ve been around for a while, you know that I love the retro desert town of Palm Springs.
From the rugged mountain range to the cactus-studded hiking trails to the retro and colorful vibes, I say what’s not to love? There are so many things to do in Palm Springs that it’s hard not to fall in love with this place.
Just about every trip I take to Palm Springs, I make it a point to visit Indian Canyons. It has quickly become one of my favorite spots for hiking and wildlife viewing.
And while I’ve loved the Andreas Canyon trail for quite some time, it was only recently that I got to hike Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs.
And, spoiler alert – it was equally amazing.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before hiking Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs. From where to find it to what to pack to when to visit, I will cover it all in this guide.
A Complete Guide for Hiking Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs
Where is the Palm Canyon Trail
Palm Canyon Trail is found in Palm Springs’ own Indian Canyons Resort. It is just minutes from downtown Palm Springs by car, and is easily accessible from anywhere in the city.
Indian Canyons has earned a spot on my list of the best places to have a day trip in Palm Springs.
The Best Time for Hiking Palm Canyon Trail
While Indian Canyons is open year-round, there are a few things to consider before hiking here. After all, you are in the desert!
The best months for hiking Palm Springs’ Palm Canyon Trail is between October and the end of May. The temperatures will be much cooler than the hot summer months, which typically sit in the triple digits.
Fall and spring hikers can expect temperature ranges from the 70s to the 90s during the day. In winter and spring, be sure to check the forecast ahead of time to avoid heavy rains. Yes, that does happen here!
As far as the best time of day for hiking Palm Canyon trail, arrive as early as possible. This will help you to avoid both the midday heat as well as the crowds.
You May Also Like: Desert Wear and Hiking Essentials for the American Southwest
What To Pack When Hiking Palm Canyon Trail
If you have never hiked in the desert before, you are going to need to plan ahead. Hiking in the desert requires several extra precautions that a lush cool mountain hike would not.
For a full breakdown, check out my desert hiking essentials post. But for now, here are the basics:
A Hydration Backpack
My own Camelbak backpack is a necessity for me on any desert hiking trail. The one linked here has room for lots of water and for additional snacks, clothing, and gear. Highly recommend. Get yours here!
Rugged Trekking Sandals
I am obsessed with these exact trekking sandals. So much so, in fact, that they have traveled across six continents with me and are still going strong! They also have a closed toe for protection from all the desert pokey things while letting feet breathe.. Get yours here!
Lightweight Trail Shoes
If sandals aren’t for you, or if you are hiking during the colder months, you may prefer trail shoes or sneakers like these. These shoes are lightweight and durable as well as waterproof.. Get yours here!
A Wide Brim Hat
Trust me, you will definitely want a hat for hiking in the desert! This is my all time favorite hat and it’s perfect for the strong Palm Springs sun. The wide brim protects your face and neck. It is fully adjustable so you can create the perfect fit for you. I love mine. Get your own here!
A Moisture Wicking Tank
No matter when you visit Palm Canyon Trail, you will probably want a moisture wicking top to keep your body comfortable and dry. Columbia products have never let me down and this tank top is an excellent option. Get yours here!
Eco Friendly Sunscreen
Make sure you wear a strong sunscreen to protect your skin from the glaring desert sun. Even in the winter months, you could still get a solid burn if you’re not prepared. Stash it in your pack, too, to reapply! Get yours here!
A Cooling Bandana
This bandana is a great addition to your pack for all your desert hikes. It absorbs water and will instantly cool you off, even in the oppressively hot summer months. It also has built in UPF 50 protection. Get yours here!
Lots of Trail Snacks!
Don’t forget to stash easily packable but filling snacks for your hike, even if you don’t think you’ll be hungry. You never know! I pack everything from trail mixes, snack bars, and fruit based treats since they don’t go bad in the heat. Get yours here!
Palm Canyon Trail Hours and Fees
Indian Canyons is open daily year round between 8am to 5pm.
The last car entry time is at 4pm. But, since you are hiking Palm Canyon Trail, you will need to arrive with several hours to spare to make the full hike. More on that below.
Here are the fees to expect to enter Indian Canyons. Note that prices are charged per person and not per vehicle.
- Adults: $12
- Children (ages 6-12): $6
- Seniors (62+): $7
- Students (with student ID): $7
- Military (with U.S. military ID): Free
- Equestrian: $11
Visitors must be 18 or older to enter the park solo. All visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Day-hike tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the Indian Canyons Toll Gate.
The Best Tour for Indian Canyons
If you don’t have a car, or are with a large group and prefer to have a guide, a tour might be the way to go. Here is the top tour option!
An Indian Canyons Hiking Tour by Jeep
This three hour tour takes place in a 4WD Jeep (and comes with an expert guide!) You will visit the historical home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians found inside of Indian Canyons. Learn about the culture and legends of the Cahuilla people and enjoy a short guided hike. Highly recommend!
What To Expect on the Trail
The Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs is an extremely popular and family friendly hike that is accessible year round. It is one of the best things to do in Palm Springs and one of my personal favorite spots in the city!
Upon parking in the designated parking area, hikers will need to head down from the top of the hill to the large palm grove below, along a rock-walled dirt path.
Don’t worry, it will be incredibly obvious! You will see many spiky fan palm tops stretching out into the distance.
Once you reach the lower ground, you will see a small flowing stream to the left and large palms in front of you (and basically all around.)
Hikers will follow a relatively flat, straightforward trail. Enjoy the shade of the tall, hairy palm trees and listen to the babbling stream that runs next to the path. It is not uncommon to see families or hikers cooling off in the creek as well.
When you reach the junction with Victor Trail, you can turn back the way you came. Or, if you’re not finished hiking yet, you can also wander along the Victor Trail to extend your hike.
Be wary of rattlesnakes as they love the dry environments. On one of my visits, I saw a 5+ foot rattlesnake next to the Andreas Canyon Trail oasis and you can bet they like the Palm Canyon Trail, too!
Palm Canyon Trail is ruggedly beautiful, offering sights not commonly seen in the desert. You’ll have a sandy floor, jagged rocks, tall shaggy palms, and a trickling stream. It is a must see when visiting Palm Springs!
Palm Canyon Trail Basics
- Trail Length: 2 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Trail Rating: Easy
- Time Needed: Roughly 1 – 1.5 hours for most hikers
Where To Stay in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is one of those places with no shortage of stylish, or retro, or quirky accommodations. There is something for everyone here!
1. El Morocco Inn and Spa
The El Morocco Inn and Spa is a colorful hotel that transports you to another country in an instant. The decor is gorgeous, and the grounds offer mineral rich thermal waters in the on-site swimming pool and jacuzzi. There is also a luxurious sauna to soak away your worries.
2. Sagewater Spa
I’m certainly biased, but when staying in Palm Springs, I highly recommend staying at a hotel or resort with a pool or mineral baths. You will surely appreciate it after hiking all day!
The calm and pristine Sagewater Spa is an adults-only hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, hot spring bath and even a shared kitchen if you like to cook, like me.
3. Delos Reyes Hotel
The Delos Reyes Hotel is my top recommendation for anyone traveling on a budget. The recently renovated rooms have everything you need, including comfy beds and a small fridge. The rooms wrap around a swimming pool and hot tub outside. This hotel is consistently one of the cheapest overnights in Palm Springs.
What To Do Next
If you have more time to spend inside Indian Canyons, then I highly recommend stopping at the Andreas Canyon Trail, as well. It is home to the second largest natural California Fan Palm Oasis in the world. It’s quite a sight!
If you are ready to take break from the trails, consider walking Palm Spring’s downtown area or visiting one of the plentiful museums and galleries found here. I have guides on how to spend one day in Palm Springs if time is tight, or a full weekend in Palm Springs if you have time to spare.
I also recommend heading into Joshua Tree National Park. At less than one hour away, it’s an easy addition (and a well deserved one, too. Joshua Tree is ruggedly beautiful and otherworldly to say the least.
Lastly, consider driving farther south to see the Galleta Meadows sculptures. Discover metal serpents and dinosaurs and insects all in the California desert. This is especially fun if you are traveling with kids or appreciate quirky art.
FAQs
How long is Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs’ popular Palm Canyon Trail is roughly two miles long, and takes place on an out and back trail.
What makes Palm Canyon special?
Palm Canyon is a beautiful hike that weaves visitors through California Fan Palm groves, natural flowing oases, and even colorful wildflowers in the spring. It is a far cry from the dry and barren desert hikes that most people would imagine!
What time does Palm Canyon Trail open?
Palm Canyon Trail opens as soon as Indian Canyons opens, at 8am year round. The area closes promptly at 5pm so time your hike wisely.
Are dogs allowed on the Palm Canyon Trail?
Dogs are not allowed on Palm Canyon Trail, nor are they allowed into Indian Canyons in general. They will check this as you pay your fee, so definitely leave all pets at home.
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I hope that this guide to Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs helps you to plan your journey and have a smooth visit! I’m willing to bet that you will enjoy it just as much as I have!
More Palm Springs Resources:
- A Palm Springs Day Trip: What To See in 24 Hours
- The Best Palm Springs Activities and Things To Do
- The Best Day Trips from Palm Springs
- The Andreas Canyon Trail Hike in Palm Springs
- Hiking Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs
- Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium in Palm Springs
- A Weekend in Palm Springs Itinerary
- Desert Wear and Hiking Essentials for the American Southwest
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