The Lower Palm Canyon Trail in Indian Canyons, Palm Springs, is a perfect introduction to the stunning Coachella Valley desert oasis. Meandering along Palm Canyon Creek, this hike features towering fan palms, reflective pools, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for families and casual hikers alike.
Length: 3 - 4 miles out and back
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy hike and family-friendly.
Getting To Lower Palm Canyon Trail
The Lower Palm Canyon Trail is located in Indian Canyons. Follow South Palm Canyon until it begins to turn and keep to the right. Proceed about 2 miles to the Indian Canyons entry gate. All visitors to Indian Canyons must pay an entry fee at the tollgate before starting their hike. Parking is included in the entry fee. The military is free.
Continue 2.5 miles to Palm Canyon and the trading post. You will pass through a rock on your way to the trading post.
The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
The Indian Canyons are located on the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who have stewarded this desert oasis for thousands of years. Today, the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation protects this culturally and environmentally significant area. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s heritage, traditions, and efforts to preserve the land while enjoying the scenic trails. The tribe also operates the Indian Canyons trading post, which provides educational materials and insight into the unique Cahuilla culture.
Begin Hike
Walk down the trail and begin your hike of the Lower Palm Canyon Trail on the right.
For the first ¾ of a mile, follow the pathway above Palm Canyon Creek. Palm Canyon is quite magnificent. It is cool and mostly shady, filled with fan palms of all sizes next to a stream that still has pools and springs in mid-summer, though at drier times, most water flows below ground. The trees rise to 60 feet and have trunks 3 feet across, all from the same species—washingtonia filifera, the only palm native to western North America.
Source: Dan Kirkpatrick
A few other plants are found here, including reeds around the water and willow & cottonwood trees on the slopes, though the palms dominate. Some small groups grow higher up the hillsides or along canyons, where underground water is available. The most evident wildlife is the desert spiny lizards, but rattlesnakes are also encountered, while fish and frogs live in the reflective pools and streams. Always stay on the rail, keeping it clear of vegetation.
The trail then crosses Palm Canyon Creek and eventually connects with the Victor and Palm Canyon Trails.
As you continue, it becomes East Fork Trail. Hike another .5 to 1 mile before turning around and heading back to the trading post. The colossal palm tree oasis ends after about 1.4 miles of walking through Palm Canyon.
Source: Eric Satterblom
Take the Victor Trail back if you’d like to make the Palm Canyon hike a loop instead of an out-and-back hike. The aerial views of the palm oasis from the Victor Trail are excellent. The desert landscape on the Victor Trail contrasts with the lush Palm Canyon. You’ll gain a wonderful new perspective on the size and beauty of Palm Springs. You’ll also enjoy hiking through a dense cactus forest, with literally thousands of beautiful & interesting cacti growing all over the canyon wall.
Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and use the shaded areas near the creek to enjoy a quiet, scenic lunch surrounded by the lush palm oasis.
Best Time to Hike
- Fall and Winter: Moderate temperatures are ideal for longer hikes
- Spring: Stunning wildflowers along the trail
- Summer: Early morning recommended due to heat
Eating Options at Indian Canyons Trading Post
After your hike, refuel at the Indian Canyons Trading Post, conveniently located near the trailhead:
- Snacks & Refreshments: Grab trail mix and bottled beverages
- Local Souvenirs: Pick up indigenous crafts, desert-themed gifts, and hiking essentials
- Outdoor Seating: Perfect for soaking in the views of the palm oasis and desert landscape
Public restrooms are also available.
Preservation and Safety
- Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect native plants
- Pack out all trash
- Dogs (except service animals) are prohibited in wilderness areas
- Fires and weapons are not allowed in the state wilderness
The Lower Palm Canyon Trail is a serene, scenic, and family-friendly Palm Springs hike, perfect for connecting with nature while exploring the desert’s hidden oasis.
7 Scenic Hikes in Palm Canyons: Explore the Best Trails Starting from the Trading Post
