David Go
Palm Springs, California, is synonymous with sun-drenched days, mid-century modern architecture, and vibrant desert landscapes. However, beyond the resort glamour, lies a majestic realm of towering mountains, pristine canyons, and exhilarating trails. For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, the mountain attractions in Palm Springs offer a refreshing escape, providing breathtaking vistas, diverse ecosystems, and adventures ranging from leisurely strolls to strenuous climbs. This guide explores the absolute best mountain attractions that showcase the stunning natural beauty surrounding this iconic desert city, promising unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, a marvel of engineering offering a unique experience as rotating tram cars ascend through the dramatic Chino Canyon. This attraction provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, transforming the desert landscape into a lush alpine environment in mere minutes. Upon reaching the Mountain Station, visitors are greeted with a cooler climate, fine dining options, a historical museum, and access to numerous hiking trails within the Mount San Jacinto State Park. It’s an ideal escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to capture stunning photographs of the desert meeting the mountains. The seamless ascent and diverse amenities at the top promise a memorable experience for all ages.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ NFC
Indian Canyons
Discover the ancient beauty of Indian Canyons, a sacred and picturesque landscape comprising Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Palm Canyon, once home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. This natural oasis offers a serene escape with miles of trails perfect for hiking and horseback riding amidst towering palm trees, lush vegetation, and seasonal waterfalls. Visitors can explore a rich ecosystem, picnic in designated areas, and learn about the indigenous history at the gift shop. The serene atmosphere and stunning geological formations provide a profound connection to nature, making it a beloved spot for families, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure.
Good for
- ✔ Children
- ✔ Dogs
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
Immerse yourself in the vast wilderness of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, a sprawling backcountry playground preserving a diverse range of ecosystems from desert floor to alpine peaks. This monumental landscape offers an array of recreational opportunities including extensive hiking and horse-riding trails, camping, and unparalleled scenic views. Visitors can explore dramatic elevation changes, diverse flora and fauna, and awe-inspiring geological formations. It’s a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for adventurers, providing a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature. The Monument serves as a vital natural resource and an essential destination for experiencing Southern California’s rugged beauty.
Good for
- ✔ Children
- ✔ Dogs
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Palm Canyon
As a gem within the Indian Canyons, Palm Canyon offers a uniquely accessible and awe-inspiring natural experience. This verdant nature preserve is renowned for its magnificent Washingtonia filifera palm trees, creating a stunning oasis that feels worlds away from the desert city. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the canyon floor, embark on more challenging hikes, or simply relax amidst the shade of the palms by seasonal streams and natural pools. It’s a perfect spot for families and nature lovers to explore diverse plant life, spot local wildlife, and capture picturesque moments. The well-maintained trails and captivating scenery ensure a memorable visit for anyone seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
Good for
- ✔ Children
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
Cactus to Clouds Trailhead
For the truly adventurous, the Cactus to Clouds Trailhead presents one of North America’s most challenging and rewarding hikes. Starting from the Palm Springs Art Museum, this strenuous trail ascends over 10,000 feet to the summit of Mount San Jacinto, traversing a remarkable array of desert and alpine ecosystems. Hikers are treated to continuously evolving, dramatic views of the Coachella Valley below and the rugged mountain ranges. This iconic route is renowned for its steep elevation gain and requires significant preparation and experience. Successfully conquering the Cactus to Clouds offers an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and a unique perspective of Palm Springs’ dramatic landscape.
Good for
- ❌ Children
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Mountain Station
Ascend to an elevation of 8,516 feet to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Mountain Station, a world away from the desert floor. This aerial haven serves as the gateway to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Visitors step out into crisp, pine-scented air and enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. The station itself offers observation decks, a gift shop, and access to numerous miles of hiking trails for all skill levels. It’s an ideal spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter, and a cool mountain retreat in summer, providing a dramatic contrast to the valley below. The customer experience here is defined by stunning scenery and invigorating outdoor adventure.
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Tahquitz Canyon
Step into the storied Tahquitz Canyon, a culturally significant and visually stunning natural attraction managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. This vibrant canyon is renowned for its spectacular 60-foot waterfall, ancient rock art, and diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can embark on guided hikes to learn about the legend of Tahquitz and the rich history of the Cahuilla people, exploring lush oases and dramatic rock formations. The visitor center offers educational exhibits, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural enrichment. It’s a manageable hike that culminates in the refreshing sight and sound of the majestic waterfall.
Good for
- ✔ Children
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
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 Visitor Center
Begin your exploration of the magnificent Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument at its dedicated Visitor Center. This informative hub offers free admission and serves as an essential first stop for adventurers planning to delve into the surrounding wilderness. Here, guests can gather maps, trail information, and educational resources about the area’s diverse ecosystems, geology, and wildlife. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide insights into hiking opportunities, local conditions, and responsible outdoor practices. It’s an invaluable resource for enhancing your visit, ensuring a safe and enriching experience amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the national monument.
Good for
- ✔ Children
Amenities
- ✔ Has Restroom
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
Andreas Canyon Trailhead
Located within the revered Indian Canyons, the Andreas Canyon Trailhead offers access to a captivating loop trail renowned for its extraordinary display of fan palm trees. Here, visitors can wander alongside a perennial stream, marveling at the hundreds of magnificent palms that create a unique and cool microclimate within the desert. The trail is relatively easy, making it ideal for families and casual hikers seeking a tranquil nature experience. Picnic tables are available, inviting guests to linger and soak in the serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for photography, bird watching, and experiencing the unique riparian environment of Palm Springs.
Good for
- ✔ Children
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
Araby Trail
The Araby Trail offers hikers a moderately challenging ascent rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the iconic San Jacinto Mountains. This scenic route also provides a unique glimpse of celebrity homes, including the famous Bob Hope residence, nestled into the hillside. Winding through arid desert landscapes, the trail showcases the unique flora and fauna of the region. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a rewarding workout with impressive vistas without committing to an all-day epic. The experience is enhanced by the quiet solitude and the ever-present beauty of the desert mountains.
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Credit Card
- ❌ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ❌ NFC
Museum Trail
Conveniently located near the Palm Springs Art Museum, the Museum Trail provides a fantastic urban-mountain interface, offering a challenging yet accessible workout with rewarding views of the city below. This popular hiking area, while not the longest, delivers a significant elevation gain that will get your heart pumping. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas of downtown Palm Springs and the surrounding desert landscape. It’s an excellent choice for a quick fitness boost or a sunset stroll, offering a unique perspective of the city against its dramatic mountainous backdrop. The trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for pet owners.
Good for
- ✔ Children
- ✔ Dogs
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Palm Desert Cross Hiking Trail
The Palm Desert Cross Hiking Trail is a beloved local route leading to an illuminated cross atop a scenic hill, offering moderate desert hikes with truly spectacular valley views. This popular trail is known for being family-friendly and welcoming to dogs, making it an ideal outdoor activity for the entire household. The hike, while offering a good workout, is generally considered accessible for various fitness levels, culminating in a rewarding vantage point perfect for enjoying sunrises, sunsets, and panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley. It’s a tranquil and reflective spot that combines natural beauty with a sense of community.
Good for
- ✔ Children
- ✔ Dogs
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Credit Card
- ❌ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
Coachella Valley Vista Point
Perched along the Pines to Palms Highway, the Coachella Valley Vista Point is an essential stop for anyone seeking awe-inspiring panoramic views of the desert landscape. This observation point offers a sweeping perspective of the vast Coachella Valley, flanked by majestic mountains, making it a prime location for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s also a renowned spot for hang gliding enthusiasts, providing an extra spectacle for visitors. With easily accessible parking and stunning vistas, it’s a perfect brief detour to absorb the grandeur of the Palm Springs region’s unique geographical beauty.
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Murray Canyon Trail
The Murray Canyon Trail, another jewel within the Indian Canyons, offers a picturesque hiking experience along a tranquil creek or stream, past lush palm trees, and through dramatic canyon walls. This inviting trail leads to a refreshing waterfall, providing a delightful reward for hikers. The path winds over rocks and natural terrain, immersing visitors in a serene desert oasis. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a moderate hike with diverse scenery, showcasing the vibrant riparian ecosystems nestled within the arid landscape. The feeling of discovery and the beauty of the waterfall make it a truly memorable adventure.
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
Clara Burgess Trail
The Clara Burgess Trail offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding single-track national forest trail, ascending 1,339 feet over 2.2 miles to a picturesque hilltop. Known for its demanding elevation gain, this trail is a favorite among experienced hikers seeking a rigorous workout and stunning views. As you climb, the panoramas of the surrounding mountains and desert expand, providing a profound sense of achievement at the summit. It’s a trail that pushes limits while connecting you deeply with the rugged beauty of the Palm Springs wilderness, offering solitude and breathtaking natural vistas.
Amenities
- ❌ Wifi
Accessibility
- ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ❌ Cash Only
From the exhilarating heights of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the ancient, serene beauty of Indian Canyons, and the challenging ascents of renowned hiking trails, Palm Springs truly is a gateway to unparalleled mountain adventures. Whether you seek panoramic vistas, a deep connection with nature, or an invigorating workout amidst stunning backdrops, the diverse mountain attractions in this region offer something for everyone. Embrace the unique charm of the desert meeting the mountains and discover why Palm Springs is not just a destination for relaxation, but also for thrilling outdoor exploration.
