01
Best overall pick
Bump and Grind Trail
Foothills Above Palm Desert • Steep Desert Workout With Sweeping City Views • Local Favorite Fitness Climb
A short but spirited climb locals use as their go-to sunrise workout and view fix.
This well-trodden loop wastes no time gaining elevation, delivering fast views over Palm Desert and the wider Coachella Valley. Expect a steady grade, a mix of dirt and rocky sections, and plenty of friendly locals and dogs on leashes. Start early for cooler temps and a golden wash of light over the ridgelines.
02
Best for first-time visitors
Randall Henderson Trail
Santa Rosa Foothills South Of Palm Desert • Loop Through Classic Sonoran Desert Habitat • Introductory Desert Hike
A gently rolling loop that showcases textbook desert scenery without pushing too hard.
Starting near the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument visitor area, this loop offers a great sampler of creosote flats, rocky washes, and sweeping mountain backdrops. The grades are moderate and the route feels pleasantly removed from town once you’re a mile in. It’s a smart pick if you’re new to desert hiking or showing visitors what the local landscape looks like up close.
03
Best for strong hikers
Art Smith Trail
Highway 74 Corridor Near Palm Desert • Longer Out-And-Back Into Rugged Desert Backcountry • Scenic Challenge Route
A committing, view-packed trek that trades crowds for big country and all-day vistas.
The Art Smith Trail quickly leaves the edge of town and threads deep into a maze of ridges and washes, with distant views toward the Coachella Valley and the high Santa Rosa peaks. You can turn around at one of several high points, but strong hikers will enjoy pushing farther to feel the landscape really open up. Bring extra water, sun protection, and a willingness to be out longer than a typical morning stroll.
04
Best for flexible mileage
Hopalong Cassidy Trail
Hills Between Palm Desert And Indian Wells • Rolling Ridge Route Linking Neighborhoods And Open Desert • Build-Your-Own-Distance Hike
A linked series of ridges where you can tailor the distance while keeping valley views almost the whole way.
This trail weaves above golf courses and homes before committing to more open desert, giving you wide angles on both the valley and the surrounding mountains. Numerous access points and junctions let you shorten or extend your outing depending on heat, energy, or time. It’s ideal if you want a mix of civilized access and a surprisingly wild feel once you’ve climbed a bit.
05
Best desert oasis escape
Palm Canyon & Victor Trail Loop (Indian Canyons)
Indian Canyons South Of Palm Springs • Oasis Canyon Walk With Optional Ridge Views • Most Scenic Day-Trip Option
A classic loop that pairs shaded palm groves with open ridgelines and far-reaching desert views.
Within Indian Canyons, this loop starts along a lush ribbon of native palms in Palm Canyon, where the sound of water and dense shade feel worlds away from the freeway. Climbing to the Victor Trail brings you out onto airy desert slopes with big views back over the oasis and toward the valley. There is a day-use fee and it can be hot, but timed right it’s one of the most memorable hikes within an easy drive of Desert Palms.