If you’re planning hikes around Palm Springs, you’ll want clear options for every skill level and season. I’ll point you to five must-do trails, family-friendly routes, harder day hikes, and a few quiet gems, plus practical tips on safety, permits, and lodging so you can pick the right trail and timing—start with what kind of hike you want and I’ll guide you from there.
Top Five Must-Do Hikes Around Palm Springs
Tackle these five must-do hikes around Palm Springs to experience the region’s best desert and mountain scenery: expect a mix of short, steep climbs and full-day treks—from the punishing Cactus to Clouds ascent to the accessible Palm Springs Museum Trail—each offering distinct views, wildlife encounters, and trail conditions you should prepare for. You’ll tackle Cactus to Clouds if you crave a serious challenge: 22 miles and 10,400 feet of one-day ascent, so only attempt it with training, early starts, and ample water. Explore Indian Canyons for variety: over 60 miles of trails and ranger-led interpretive hikes that deepen your understanding of desert ecology. Choose Palm Springs Museum Trail for a concise, strenuous outing—2 miles with 900 feet gain and city panoramas. Hike Ryan Mountain in Joshua Tree for a short, steep 1.5 miles and 1,070 feet of elevation with sweeping vistas. Take the Art Smith Trail as your full-day option—16 miles, 1,200 feet gain, and bighorn sheep sightings if you move quietly and stay alert.
Family-Friendly Trails and Easy Walks
If you’re hiking with kids or looking for a relaxed outing, Palm Springs and nearby areas have several easy, engaging trails that won’t sacrifice scenery or adventure. You’ll find routes that balance safety, interest, and freedom for little legs: The Wilderness Loop at the Living Desert offers flat terrain and rock formations for exploration; Palm Canyon Trail to the Victor Loop gives a shaded first mile and a palm oasis; Palm Desert Cross Trail is accessible with sweeping views; Ladder Canyon and Painted Canyon add ladders and colorful geology for supervised thrills. Choose trails based on mobility and energy, pack water, and set a playful pace.
| Trail | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Loop | Flat, kid-friendly | Young explorers |
| Palm Canyon→Victor | Shaded oasis | Midday family hike |
| Palm Desert Cross | Accessible views | All ages |
| Ladder/Painted Canyon | Ladders, colors | Guided adventure |
| Any trail | Safe, engaging | Families seeking freedom |
Challenging Day Hikes for Experienced Trekkers
After easy family loops, you might want a day that truly tests your legs and planning — these challenging hikes demand fitness, navigation skills, and plenty of water. Take on Cactus to Clouds if you crave an epic push: 22 miles and 10,400 feet of elevation gain makes it a serious, full-day undertaking; start pre-dawn, carry extra fluids, and be ready for extreme conditions. For a shorter but steep test, try Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide: 8.5 miles with 2,350 feet of gain and rewarding vistas. Murray Peak tightens the focus—7.5 miles, 2,000 feet—delivering panoramic summit views for your effort. Art Smith is longer at 16.2 miles and 3,330 feet, with desert scenery and possible bighorn sightings; pace yourself and monitor heat. South Lykken offers 8.9 miles and 2,209 feet for a hard, scenic loop with wildlife chances. Choose by length, gain, and exposure; plan water, timing, and emergency gear, then move deliberately.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Routes
While the big-name trails draw crowds, explore these lesser-known routes to find solitude, varied scenery, and wildlife — from the North Lykken Trail’s clear Coachella Valley vistas to the shaded palms and 25 miles of paths at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve. Head to North Lykken for a moderate climb and expansive views without the traffic; you’ll move freely and pause where you choose. Choose Murray Canyon Trail when you want an easy, restorative walk to a waterfall and close-up looks at native plants. Walk sections of the Art Smith Trail to cover diverse terrain and scan for bighorn sheep; plan for a long day or split it into segments. For a short, sharp reward, take the Palm Springs Museum Trail’s steep switchbacks to panoramic city views. Each route gives you options: loop, out-and-back, or combine segments. Pick your distance, pack water, and let these quieter paths reset your sense of space and possibility.
Safety, Logistics, and Where to Stay
Those quieter trails feel restorative, but you’ll need a solid plan before you go. Carry at least 2 liters of water, high-SPF sunscreen, and layers—desert heat can spike fast. Check weather and trail conditions, and pick routes that match your fitness and time. Bring a map, compass, or GPS; many paths lack signage and it’s easy to lose your way.
Tell someone your route and expected return, especially for strenuous hikes like Cactus to Clouds. Charge your phone and carry a portable battery; signal can be unreliable. Start early to avoid midday heat and pace yourself on exposed sections.
For basecamp, choose a nearby hotel that shortens your approach: Desert Riviera Hotel and Korakia Pensione put you close to Indian Canyons and give restorative comfort after long days. Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons. With preparation and respectful trail habits, you’ll move freely and safely through Palm Springs’ wild places.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the Best Season to See Desert Wildflowers Near Palm Springs?
Late winter to early spring is best — you’ll see peak desert wildflowers from February through April after good winter rains. Plan hikes mid-morning, pack water, and go light and bold to witness vibrant, fleeting blooms.
Are Dogs Allowed on These Trails and Any Leash Rules?
Right off the bat: you can bring dogs on many trails, but you’ve got to keep them leashed and under control; follow posted rules, pack out waste, and stay on trail — rules vary, so check each preserve first.
Which Hikes Have the Best Sunrise or Sunset Viewpoints?
For sunrise, hike Tahquitz Peak or Cactus to catch glowing desert light; for sunset, try San Jacinto via Palm Springs Aerial Tram or Murray Canyon Overlook. You’ll embrace wide skies, solitude, and freeing panoramas.
Are Permits or Parking Passes Required for Any Trailheads?
About 40% of popular trailheads require permits or day-use passes, so you’ll check individual sites. Carry a pass for Joshua Tree, some Palm Springs preserves, park at designated lots, and plan permits ahead to stay free.
What Wildlife Species Should Hikers Expect to Encounter?
You’ll encounter bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, roadrunners, and rattlesnakes; respect distance, avoid feeding wildlife, hike with companions, carry water, watch trails and brush, and report sightings to protect animals and preserve your freedom on the trail.
Conclusion
You’ve got options for every pace—family strolls, tough summit days, and quiet off‑trail finds—so which hike will you choose next? Plan your route, pack plenty of water, start early, and respect desert conditions to stay safe. Stay at a nearby lodge or campground to cut drive time and catch sunrise views. With smart logistics and the right trail for your skill level, you’ll make the most of Palm Springs’ unbeatable hiking playground.