01
Best overall pick
Indian Canyons Hiking Trails
South Palm Springs • Palm-Filled Canyons With Year-Round Streams • Classic Desert Oasis Experience
A network of canyon trails where fan palms, running water, and sculpted rock walls show off the desert at its most unexpected and lush.
If you only have time for one hike, make it here: Palm Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Andreas Canyon each offer a different mix of shade, water, and wide-open views. Well-marked routes range from mellow family walks along the creek to longer loops that climb into the surrounding hills. Go early in the day for cooler temperatures and quieter trails, and bring cash or card for the entry fee at the gate.
02
Iconic waterfall hike
Tahquitz Canyon Trail
Just West Of Downtown Palm Springs • Short, Rocky Loop To A Seasonal Waterfall • Best For First-Time Visitors
A compact out-and-back that packs in petroglyphs, stone steps, and a desert waterfall just minutes from Palm Springs hotels.
The main trail climbs steadily along a boulder-lined wash to a 60-foot falls that flows in cooler months, making it a standout introduction to local hiking. The route is rocky but well maintained, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy canyon walls glowing in the morning or late-afternoon light. It’s a great choice if you want something scenic and memorable without committing to a half-day outing.
03
Best ridgeline views
South Lykken Trail
Foothills Above South Palm Springs • Steep Singletrack Climb To A Desert Ridge • Sunrise And Sunset Favorite
A punchy ascent that quickly trades city streets for big valley views and a long bench of trail etched into the San Jacinto foothills.
From the south trailhead, you’ll climb through a series of tight switchbacks that gain elevation fast before easing out along a panoramic ridge. Benches placed along the way make natural turnaround points, but stronger hikers can continue farther for broader views over the Coachella Valley. Start early or late to avoid exposed midday heat, and expect to share the trail with locals getting in their daily workout.
04
In-town workout climb
Palm Springs Museum Trail
Behind Downtown And The Art Museum • Short, Steep Climb Straight Into The Foothills • Quick Challenge Close To Everything
A direct, high-gain path that begins steps from downtown and tops out at a viewpoint that feels much farther from town than it is.
Don’t let the modest mileage fool you: this trail wastes no time, zigzagging sharply uphill on rocky singletrack with limited shade. In return you get sweeping views over downtown, the wind farms, and the desert sprawl, plus a taste of the rugged terrain leading toward the Tramway. It’s ideal when you want a serious leg-and-lung test without driving to a distant trailhead.
05
Popular valley loop
Bump and Grind Trail
Palm Desert, East Of Palm Springs • Moderate Loop On Wide Desert Paths • Best Social Hike With Big Views
A lively local favorite that strings together broad switchbacks, rounded ridges, and overlook spots above the eastern side of the valley.
About a 25-minute drive from central Palm Springs, this loop offers a more open, rolling feel than the steeper canyon climbs closer to town. Multiple route options let you choose between a shorter out-and-back or a full circuit, all with consistent but manageable elevation gain. Expect a friendly crowd at peak times, plus great chances to spot desert plants and occasional bighorn sheep along the hillsides.