South Lykken Trail

South Lykken Trail is an 8.7-mile out-and-back hike in Palm Springs, California. The trail ascends the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains and provides panoramic views of Palm Springs and Santa Rosa National Monument. This trail features steep sections at the beginning and end, followed by moderate terrain in the middle. The trail is open to trail runners, hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. 

Once you have found street parking, proceed up West Mesquite Avenue. There are trail signs and information at the South Lykken Trailhead, which is located where the road runs into the base of the mountains. 

Start climbing up the exposed switchbacks of the rocky mountainside from the trailhead.  A sandy flat spot with multiple picnic tables and incredible views awaits you after 1.5 miles at Josie Johnson Vista Park. 

The trail descends to South Palm Canyon Drive after about three miles. From the road, turn around, climb back up the trail you just came down, and retrace your steps back to the trailhead where you began.  

VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

The trail is lined with native desert plants, including creosote and cacti, and it is an important habitat for bighorn sheep. Visitors may even be fortunate enough to see a glimpse of these rare creatures during their visit. 

CONSIDERATIONS

• The trail is mostly exposed with little to no shade or water. 

PARKING

Street parking is available on the south side of South Palm Canyon Drive on East Mesquite Avenue (be sure to read street signs carefully wherever you park and pay attention to local regulations and restrictions).