Painted Hills Wetlands Trail

The trail to the Painted Hills Wetlands is an easy walk through a scenic section of the Mission Creek Preserve in Morongo Valley.

Under the stewardship of The Wildlands Conservancy, the trail along Mission Creek is the portal to further exploration of the area's diverse backcountry and a variety of interconnecting features. The Painted Hills Wetlands may be one of the easiest hikes in the area, following an easy flat double track as it traces Mission Creek, gradually climbing in a scenic valley.

The creek is one of the nicest features, and though the trail itself never accesses the stream, there are a number of points where it would be easy to leave the trail and walk down to the water. 

Several stone houses stand at the trailhead, each now housing a picnic bench. From here, the path passes between enveloping hills. The painted hills moniker becomes apparent when calico stone formations appear on the northern hillside. A lush wetlands area, including sizable trees overlooking the valley soon come into view. While the dense brush makes it discouraging to head into the wetlands, the sound of the birds and leaves blowing in the breeze offer a unique atmosphere in the desert environment. 

Hikers looking to continue on can head further toward the Stone House. Otherwise, turn around and retrace the route back toward the trailhead.

There are only a few parking spaces at the trailhead. The area is generally quiet, however weekends and evenings when dog walkers head to the trail may become busier.

There is no water or amenities along the trailhead or trail. The path is fully exposed to the sun during daylight hours. Plan accordingly.