06 Jan Hiking in Desert Hot Springs
Hiking In Desert Hot Springs
Desert Hot Springs is famous for arid landscapes and springs that bring life in the desert. If you’re taking some time off to admire Palm Springs, you can enjoy hiking in some of the most prestigious zones. These include the Indian Canyons, Morongo Preserve, White water preserve, and the Coachella valley preserve.
The Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons are home to the native Agua Caliente Band, who are part of the Cahuilla Indians. In these canyons, the Indians thrived and left behind rock art, irrigation ditches, dams and food preparation areas that exist to date.
While hiking, you’ll enjoy the scenic views of palms that greatly contrast the surrounding arid landscapes. You can stop for a horseback ride in the Palm Canyon and take a picnic in the lush oasis in the Andreas Canyon. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the now endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep as you walk through the trails.
The Morongo Preserve
Hiking The Through trail in the Morongo Preserve is an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural state. The preserve spans over 31,000 acres and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. During the hike, you may encounter bighorn sheep, mule deer, and mountain lions.
The Big Morongo fault causes the water to flow into the Morongo creek to form a marsh. This perennial water supply also draws in hundreds of birds to the canyon. 247 bird species have been identified within the preserve making this area perfect for bird watching and photography.
White Water Preserve
The trails through the White Preserve are nothing short of exciting. First, this is the home of the White River, which hydrates the Coachella valley. The waters flow from San Bernardino Mountains to towards the deserts. The preserve bursts with wildlife including the Southern willow flycatcher and Bell’s vireo, bears, and bighorn sheep.
The preserve has different trails to take depending on how adventures you feel about Desert Hot Springs destinations. Both the Pacific Crest Trail and the Canyon View Look Trail give a panoramic view of the White Water Valley. The management provides trail maps and checklists that you can use to maximize your hiking experience.
Coachella Valley Preserve
While the Coachella music festival is famous, this preserve is equally known. This national wildlife refuge located in the east of Palm Springs spans over 3,700 acres and is a refuge for birds and insects. You can visit the Thousand Palm Oasis fed by water from the eminent San Andreas Fault.
There are several trails including Pushawalla McCallum and Hidden Palms. The Pushawalla Palms is the most strenuous, rising from the desert flow into Mission Creek Fault. The fault is part of the San Andreas Fault system. There is also an oasis at the end of the trail.
If you prefer to view Coachella Valley, take the Hidden Palms Trail. You’ll catch the scenic view and feel rejuvenated after five miles of walking. Grab a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water before walking in the trails. To maximize your experience at Desert Hot Springs, book your stay with The Spring Resort and Spa and relax after a long hike.