Palm Springs Hike to an Oasis and Amazing Desert Views
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
I provide bottled water, a snack bar and a clean backpack for everyone. For centuries members of the Cahuilla tribe hiked to these hill tops that overlook the Coachella Valley to send smoke signals to nearby tribes that they traded with. The trails are unnamed, so they're mostly known & used by locals & don't get nearly as busy as the other easy to find hiking trails in Palm Springs during the busy winter/spring tourism season, so it's a much more peaceful hiking area. These are some of the best Palm Springs hiking trails with lots of scenic views of the Coachella Valley & a hike into a hidden Palm tree oasis. I know these trails well & the most scenic viewpoints along the way. You'll see desert vegetation close up & views of the desert valley floor all the way up to beautiful nearby mountain peaks, while getting in some fantastic exercise.
Please see all tabs of the Additional Info section for important physical and trail information.
Available options
Saturdays
Saturdays
What's included
I will provide a clean & sanitized backpack for each person if needed.
I'll provide a granola bar for each hiker,
I will provide bottled water for each hiker.
What's not included
Bring an electrolyte drink if it's a warm/hot day to replace electrolytes lost from sweating
Bring a salty snack if it's a warm/hot day to maintain sodium levels lost through sweating.
Even in winter the sun can be strong, so bring a hat, sunglasses & wear sunscreen.
Wear shoes with good traction, no sandals too many rocks..
Check & dress for the weather forecast so you'll be comfortable.
Bring tissue during the winter. The cooler weather makes for runny noses on everyone I've noticed
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
23 reviews
5★
22
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
83 reviews
5★
81
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Everyone must be at least moderately fit for hiking on hilly terrain & able to walk at a moderate pace. The hike is hilly & a few miles long & has an elevation gain of about 800 feet & trail sections that're rocky, uneven & have loose dirt/rocks typical of Palm Springs hiking trails. The hike lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes at a moderate pace with most people, but I've done it in about 1 hour 45 minutes with very fit/experienced people & it's taken about 3 hours with less experienced people. Not recommended for sedentary/low fitness or very slow walkers. If anyone's having difficulties early on I'll advise they turn back for their own good. If you're not sure if the hike is a good fit for you contact me. Wear shoes with good traction only (no sandals). Dress for the weather forecast for the time we'll be hiking, layers are good, if sunny bring a hat, sunglasses & sunscreen even during the winter on sunny days the sun can be pretty strong. Take lots of pics but no long photo sessions. Please don't be in a hurry to get the hike over with cause you have plans after & no talking about politics/polarizing topics. We'll take mini breaks during the hike. There are no restrooms here, but I carry restroom supplies. If booking for others you must please make them aware of physical/health & trail info for their ability so it doesn’t turn into torture for them. Also dogs are not allowed on any hiking trails in Palm Springs.
Not recommended for people that are recovering from surgery/injury, or have vertigo, balance/mobility issues. If you have asthma bring your inhaler, if allergic to bees bring your EpiPen.
Meeting point
For directions navigate to a coffee shop in Palm Springs called "Frisky Business Palm Springs Cat Cafe". We're not meeting in the cafe just using it for a meeting point of reference, we’re meeting in the parking lot next to it look for me standing next to my white Toyota Corolla in the parking lot.
Important notes
No need to print anything out, just show up at least 10 minutes before hike is scheduled to start.
About Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert resort city in Southern California known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities, mid-century modern architecture, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Top Attractions
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A scenic tram ride from the desert floor to the mountaintops, offering stunning views and access to hiking trails.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate
Palm Springs Art Museum
A premier destination for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design, housed in a striking mid-century modern building.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
Moderate
Joshua Tree National Park
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free entry for some areas, moderate for others
Palm Springs Walk of Stars
A tribute to celebrities who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, with stars embedded in the sidewalks of downtown Palm Springs.
Historical/Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
In-N-Out Burger
A California classic, known for its fresh, high-quality burgers and fries.
Fast Food
Vegetarian options available
Chef's Table at The Parker
A fine dining experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Palm Springs Caesar Salad
A local twist on the classic Caesar salad, often featuring fresh greens, avocado, and a unique dressing.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Golfing
Poolside lounging
Art museum visits
Architectural tours
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This is the most popular time to visit with pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities in full swing.
15°C to 30°C
60°F to 85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Palm Springs is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a secure visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious in isolated areas at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Palm Springs International Airport • 3 miles from city center
By train
Palm Springs Station
By bus
Palm Springs Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Palm Springs
The Historic District
South Palm Springs
Day trips
Joshua Tree National Park
35 miles • Full day
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Salton Sea
45 miles • Half day
A unique and somewhat eerie destination known for its shrinking lake and diverse birdlife.
Cathedral City
10 miles • Half day
A vibrant city known for its murals, festivals, and diverse dining options.
Festivals
Palm Springs International Film Festival • January
Palm Springs Pride • November
Palm Springs VillageFest • Thursday evenings year-round
Pro tips
- Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Explore the mid-century modern architecture with a guided tour
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere
- Take advantage of the numerous golf courses and spas
- Visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park for a unique desert experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
