Hiking Trails 🥾  (Palm Desert, CA)
Hiking Trails 🥾  (Palm Desert, CA)
Hiking Trails 🥾  (Palm Desert, CA)
Hiking Trails 🥾  (Palm Desert, CA)
Hiking Trails 🥾  (Palm Desert, CA)

Hiking Trails 🥾 (Palm Desert, CA)


Palm Desert offers a variety of hiking, walking, and biking trails. Nestled along the Santa Rosa Mountains, these scenic routes range from strolls to more challenging treks with stunning desert views. Step away from the rush and enjoy the natural beauty.

🅿️: All trailheads have free parking and do not require a permit.

💡: View the tabs below to learn about each hike for the city.

A captivating desert trail offering a blend of rugged beauty and serenity, the Art Smith Trail winds through dramatic canyons, rocky terrain, and stunning vistas. Named after a local hiking advocate, the trail immerses adventurers in the Coachella Valley's diverse landscape, featuring wildflowers in spring, rugged cliffs, and panoramic views. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot bighorn sheep and desert birds. Suitable for experienced hikers, the trail’s length and elevation changes provide a challenging yet rewarding experience. Perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection to the desert's raw beauty.

Duration: 6-7 hours round trip.

- Shorter hikes are worth it, excellent views right after the initial climb from the parking lot.

Bump and Grind is a popular 4-mile loop in Palm Desert offering scenic desert and valley views with a moderate uphill climb and some steep sections. The well-maintained trail is shared by hikers, runners, and the occasional biker, and typically takes about two hours. Expect loose rocks on the descent, so watch your footing. Best hiked from October to May, it can get very hot in summer. Bring water, sun protection, and note that dogs aren’t allowed. Street parking is available at the trailhead.

Map: Click Here

A scenic trail offering a moderate yet rewarding climb with panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. The trail leads to a prominent cross perched on the hillside, serving as a local landmark. Hikers are greeted with desert landscapes, including native cacti, rugged hills, and the sprawling valley below. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. The hike is relatively short but steep in parts, making it a great option for a quick, invigorating outdoor adventure.
Duration: 30 Mins Up, 30 Mins Down.

2.7-mile trail near Palm Desert, California. Popular with hikers, bikers, and runners. From October to April, enjoy cooler weather and blooming cacti.

You’ll see Coachella Valley views, desert bighorn sheep, tons of Teddy Bear Cholla and narrow canyon walls. Restrooms are at the nearby visitor center (Friday–Sunday). There’s little shade overall, so hike early or visit in cooler months. Going clockwise helps tackle sandy stretches first.

Parking is plentiful, and you’re close to El Paseo for dining or shopping. Bring water, watch for rattlesnakes, and enjoy a scenic desert escape.

Difficulty & Time: Easy/Moderate. 1 HR, 10 Mins.
Conditions: Dry ground, sandy washes, occasional wildflowers.

 

The City Of

Palm Desert, CA

Located in the Coachella Valley, 20 minutes from Palm Springs, CA, this city offers resort-style living with world-class golf courses, the famous El Paseo shopping district, and scenic mountain views. Enjoy hiking, biking, art galleries, and gourmet dining year-round.

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