Best Day Hikes Near Palm Springs

The rest of the country may be ready for winter, but in Palm Springs snowbirds are flocking to the land of eternal sunshine. With Mount San Jacinto State Park to the west, Indian Canyons to the south, and Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave Desert to the east, this oasis is a fantastic outdoor destination for sun-seekers and adventurers alike.

With its blue skies and 78-degree weather, winter is the ideal time in Palm Springs to get out and explore the valley floors and mountain peaks. The Coachella Valley is bordered by seven mountain ranges, making for diverse terrain and scenery that includes natural oases, foothills, and canyons.

The Palm Springs area also offers a range of difficulties when it comes to hiking. Within the 60-mile radius of the desert community, hikers can choose from over 140 trails featuring dramatic views of mountain ranges, valleys, and dry climate flora. Cactuses, incredible wildflowers, and fascinating geologic features make for jaw dropping scenery no matter what part of the region you are exploring.

But don’t take our word for it—get out there and see the desert beauty of this world famous city and it’s surrounding mountain ranges. From the Mount San Jacinto State Park to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument to the Coachella Valley’s Whitewater Canyon and Big Morongo Canyon, you won’t be disappointed.

Here are a few of our favorite hikes in and near Palm Springs, separated by region.