Hiking on Palm Desert's Foothill Trails

Enjoy Mountain Vistas above California’s Coachella Valley

Feb 3, 2009

High desert trails connect and circulate above Palm Desert, California where winter hikes provide views of the valley and snow capped Mt. San Jacinto and San Gorgornio.

In Palm Desert, California the winter and early spring months are cool enough to enjoy day hiking. Several high desert foothill trails connect and traverse plateaus where scenic views of the entire Coachella Valley/ Palm Springs region can be seen. The uphill climbs can be combined to create a several hour exercise routine with fresh air and plenty of desert sunshine. The terrain allows no shade but the trails are well maintained and easy to walk. The climbs to the hilltops are moderately steep but there are plenty of places to take a break. The vast viewing areas and the spring wildflowers make excellent photo opportunities.

The snow capped tips of Mt. San Gorgornio and Mt. San Jacinto dominate the uphill views. On the downhill trek, green golf courses, rows of palm trees and distant desert sand open space mix with the stucco hotels of the Coachella Valley. Hikers, runners and exercise buffs travel from slow to fast paced climbs along the trails. It’s a great way to see the entire desert and mountain region while getting a glimpse of the local California culture. Many of the exercisers are happy to stop and chat and share information about the desert amenities.

The foothill trails in Palm Desert are easily reached from the Desert Crossing Shopping Center. Behind the Target store, plenty of free street parking can be found. Trail markers begin across the street known as Painters Path.

This short ¾ mile trail is the starting point that connects to the upper trails.

This wide hard packed dirt path leads up a moderately steep climb. As its name indicates the trail winds up switchback turns. After approximately 1.5 miles, a trail head connection to the Herb Jeffries trail continues to higher elevations.

For a full day’s exercise, this 11 mile trail can be reached from the Mike Schuler Trail and taken across the expansive Palm Desert foothills. Dogs on leashes are allowed on a small portion of the trail.

The Eisenhower Peak Loop Trail is a six mile moderate hike that winds through cactus and sagebrush terrain with some elevated climbing. The trail is only accessed within the Living Desert, a fee area that contains a zoo and botanical gardens.

All of the paths are normally dry and free of brush. Although wearing hiking boots may prevent twisted ankles and provide stability, heavy walking shoes or training shoes are acceptable footwear. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

The copyright of the article Hiking on Palm Desert's Foothill Trails in California Travel is owned by Kathryn Hedderig. Permission to republish Hiking on Palm Desert's Foothill Trails in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.