Palm Springs might be famous for its glamorous pools and sunshine-filled days, but if you're up for a little adventure, there’s so much more waiting just beyond the sun loungers. This desert city is a gateway to incredible natural beauty, perfect for anyone who enjoys being outside and getting a little closer to nature.
Sure, lounging by the pool is relaxing, but stepping outside your resort can lead to some truly unforgettable experiences.
Nature Lovers, Rejoice: Palm Springs Has Plenty to Offer
Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk in nature or a challenging hike with sweeping views, Palm Springs has something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Surrounded by wide-open desert, rugged mountains, and hidden oases, the area is full of opportunities to explore, unplug, and recharge.
The best part? You don’t have to be an experienced hiker or extreme adventurer to enjoy it. There are options for every comfort level and pace.
Local Landscapes Worth Exploring
From desert valleys to alpine peaks, the area around Palm Springs is more diverse than you might expect.
The San Jacinto Mountains tower over the city and offer a cool escape from the desert heat. You’ll find forested trails, crisp mountain air, and incredible views.
The Coachella Valley stretches out with everything from sand dunes to green palm groves. It’s perfect for casual explorers and serious nature fans alike.
If you love wildlife and photography, the mix of desert plants and animals makes this a great place to spot something new around every corner.
Trails for Every Type of Hiker
No matter your hiking experience, Palm Springs has a trail that fits.
Easy trails:
Palm Canyon Trail: A calm, shady walk among towering palm trees.
Tahquitz Canyon: Short but sweet, with a beautiful waterfall at the end.
Moderate trails:
Murray Canyon Trail: A bit more rugged, with rocky paths and small stream crossings.
Andreas Canyon: Offers both natural beauty and fascinating rock art from the area’s early Native American history.
Advanced trails:
Cactus to Clouds Trail: Not for the faint of heart—this one’s steep but rewards you with epic views.
San Jacinto Peak via Marion Mountain: A challenging climb to one of the region’s most beautiful summits.
Take a Walk Through the Coachella Valley Preserve
If you're craving a peaceful escape, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a must. Spread out over 20,000 acres, this spot is home to rare plants, animals, and quiet trails that wind through palm groves and across golden sand dunes.
One of the highlights? The Thousand Palms Oasis—a lush pocket of life right in the middle of the desert. It’s the perfect place to take a break, soak in the views, and remember how special this environment really is.
A Day Trip You Shouldn’t Miss: Joshua Tree National Park
Just a short drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park feels like stepping onto another planet. Think twisted trees, boulder piles perfect for climbing, and trails that lead through some of the most unique desert scenery you’ll find anywhere.
There’s something for everyone here—from gentle hikes to rock climbing. And once the sun sets, the sky puts on a show. With almost no light pollution, Joshua Tree is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing.
Scenic Drives and Incredible Views—No Hiking Boots Needed
Prefer to take it easy? No problem. Palm Springs has plenty of scenic drives that show off its natural beauty without the need to break a sweat.
Top drives to check out:
Palms to Pines Scenic Byway: Watch the landscape change from hot desert to cool mountain forest as you climb in elevation.
Box Canyon Road: A winding route with towering rock walls and dramatic desert scenery.
Joshua Tree Scenic Drive: Even if you don’t plan to hike, a slow cruise through the park still gives you those iconic views.
Lookouts worth the stop:
Keys View: A sweeping overlook with views of the Coachella Valley and, on clear days, even the Salton Sea.
Vista Point: Found on the Palms to Pines drive—perfect for photos or just taking it all in.
More Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors
Looking for something different than hiking? Palm Springs has other outdoor options, too:
Biking: Whether you’re into mountain trails or scenic road rides, the area’s bike routes let you explore at your own pace.
Birdwatching: The mix of habitats around here makes it a top spot for bird lovers. Head to the Coachella Valley Preserve or Big Morongo Canyon Preserve with your binoculars.
Horseback riding: Saddle up for a guided ride through the desert landscape—it’s a great way to see the area from a new perspective.
Go Big: Hot Air Balloon Rides and Jeep Tours
If you’re looking to make your trip even more memorable, try one of these unforgettable experiences:
Hot air balloon rides: Float peacefully above the desert at sunrise or sunset and enjoy 360-degree views that stretch for miles.
Jeep tours: Get off the beaten path with a guided Jeep trip through hidden canyons and ancient rock formations. These tours are full of local history and geology, and they’re a great way to see parts of the desert most people miss.
Conclusion
Uncover the hidden nature gems of Palm Springs and embrace the opportunity to explore beyond traditional tourist attractions. Whether you're hiking, biking, or paddling, every adventure is enriched with the assurance of having GeerGarage at your side for all your gear rental needs.
Before embarking on your Palm Springs escapade, visit GeerGarage.com to gear up for an unforgettable journey.