David Go
Palm Springs, renowned for its stunning desert landscapes and vibrant culture, offers a spectacular array of family-friendly mountain attractions. Nestled against the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, this desert oasis provides unique opportunities for adventure and exploration that cater to all ages. From breathtaking aerial tram rides offering panoramic views to ancient palm oases ideal for gentle hikes, families visiting Palm Springs will discover unforgettable experiences amidst nature’s grandeur. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty and thrilling activities that await in these mountainous havens, ensuring a memorable vacation for everyone.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an unparalleled adventure for families, transporting visitors from the desert floor to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park in minutes. Guests ride in the world’s largest rotating tram cars, providing a 360-degree panoramic view of Chino Canyon and the Coachella Valley as they ascend over 8,500 feet. At the Mountain Station, families can enjoy two restaurants, a natural history museum, and over 50 miles of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. This iconic attraction provides a refreshing escape from the desert heat and an extraordinary opportunity to experience high-mountain ecology, making it a must-visit for breathtaking views and outdoor exploration.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ NFC
Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons, encompassing Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon, offer a magnificent natural escape into the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. These protected areas are celebrated for their breathtaking beauty, featuring lush palm oases, ancient rock art, and diverse wildlife, all within dramatic canyon landscapes. Families can explore a variety of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding, leading to serene picnic areas and stunning overlooks. The canyons provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the local Cahuilla history, and witness the remarkable biodiversity of the Palm Springs desert. With its ‘Good for Children’ designation and dog-friendly policies, Indian Canyons is an ideal outdoor adventure for the whole family.
Type
- ✔ Park and Garden
- ✔ Hiking Area
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Allows Dogs
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ No
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
Tahquitz Canyon
Discover the magic of Tahquitz Canyon, a dramatic gorge steeped in ancient Cahuilla legends and natural beauty. This hiking area is a true hidden gem, offering families a moderately challenging yet incredibly rewarding trail that leads to a spectacular 60-foot waterfall. Along the way, visitors can marvel at ancient rock art, diverse desert plants, and the chance to spot local wildlife. The experience begins at the visitor center, where engaging exhibits provide insights into the area’s cultural significance and natural history, preparing you for the journey ahead. With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural features, Tahquitz Canyon provides an enriching outdoor adventure that is ‘Good for Children,’ blending education with exhilarating exploration.
Type
- ✔ Hiking Area
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ No
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is a vast and stunning protected area that serves as a spectacular backdrop to Palm Springs, offering an abundance of family-friendly mountain activities. This expansive monument features dramatic peaks, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems, providing endless opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and scenic drives. With trails ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs, families can choose adventures that suit their pace. The Monument’s Visitor Center offers valuable information, exhibits, and educational programs, enhancing the understanding of this unique desert mountain environment. It’s a place where children and adults alike can marvel at the diverse landscapes, spot local wildlife, and experience the profound tranquility of the California wilderness. ‘Good for Children’ and ‘Allows Dogs’ make it a truly inclusive outdoor destination.
Type
- ✔ National Park
- ✔ Visitor centre
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Allows Dogs
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ No
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
Palm Springs truly shines as a destination for families seeking adventure and natural beauty in a mountain setting. Whether you’re soaring above the desert floor on the Aerial Tramway, exploring ancient oases in the Indian Canyons, discovering a hidden waterfall in Tahquitz Canyon, or immersing yourselves in the vast wilderness of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, these attractions promise enriching and memorable experiences for all ages. Pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to create lasting family memories amidst the stunning mountainous backdrop of Palm Springs.
