9 Easy and Scenic Hikes in Greater Palm Springs for Picnics and Relaxation
Discover serene spots to savor the desert landscape during a picnic lunch. From majestic canyons to lush shaded oases, Greater Palm Springs offers accessible trails blending tranquility with breathtaking natural beauty.
McCallum Trail
Stats: 1.7 miles out and back, flat
Notes: Free parking and entry; preserve hours vary seasonally
The McCallum Trail starts with a short boardwalk in the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve. After about half a mile on a well-marked sandy wash, reach a pristine desert oasis at Simone Pond, surrounded by tall palms and shaded benches—ideal for relaxation.
Cap Rock Nature Trail
Stats: 0.4-mile loop, flat
Notes: Entry fee or annual pass required for Joshua Tree National Park
For a quick sunset vantage in Joshua Tree National Park, prioritize the Cap Rock Trail. Benches and boulders provide perfect perches to watch the sun set behind the mountains—just steps from the parking lot.
Marsh Trail
Stats: 0.5-mile loop, flat
Notes: Free parking and entry; open 7:30 a.m. to sunset
Along Twentynine Palms Highway at the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, the Marsh Trail boardwalk branches into side paths with benches. Its winding route offers fun angles for photos.
Mesquite Trail
Stats: 0.7-mile loop, mostly flat with about two dozen steps
Notes: Free parking and entry; open 7:30 a.m. to sunset
From the Marsh Trail in Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, extend your hike with the short Mesquite Trail. Enjoy hill views amid tree clusters—bring binoculars for birdwatching overhead.
Andreas Canyon Trail
Stats: 1-mile loop, ~50 feet elevation gain
Notes: $9 entry fee at the Indian Canyons kiosk
Surrounded by palm groves, the Indian Canyons parking and picnic area leads to the scenic Andreas Canyon Trail. Follow Andreas Creek initially, then ascend a gentle slope for panoramic views of palms nestled in rocky terrain.
Murray Canyon
Stats: 4 miles, ~500 feet elevation gain
Notes: $9 entry fee at the Indian Canyons kiosk
After Andreas Canyon, challenge yourself on Murray Canyon Trail. It follows Murray Creek (possibly wet feet seasonally), ending with light scrambling to small cascading waterfalls.
Tahquitz Canyon
Stats: 3.5 miles, ~300 feet elevation gain
Notes: $12.50 entry fee at the visitor center
This well-maintained, partly shaded trail in Tahquitz Canyon rewards with a seasonal waterfall. Opt for a guided tribal ranger tour to learn Cahuilla history, edible plants, and more—even sample some.
49 Palms Oasis
Stats: 3 miles, ~450 feet elevation gain
Notes: Entry fee or annual pass required for Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree's easier oasis hike, 49 Palms Trail, leads 1.5 miles through hills to shaded palms. Well-maintained but mostly exposed—avoid summer heat.
Whitewater Canyon
Stats: 4 miles, ~700 feet elevation gain
Notes: Free parking and entry; open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In Greater Palm Springs' northwest, Whitewater Preserve hosts diverse birds. Note south loop closure from fires—check with rangers. Easier option: paved path around ponds with shaded picnic tables.
