Palm Canyon

Calling all nature, outdoor, photography, and history buffs! There's an attraction near Palm Springs that offers an abundance of natural wonders, rich history, and breathtaking views. This is Palm Canyon!

This stunning oasis is known for its towering California palms, numerous hiking trails, and a significant Native American past. It's where the present meets the past, offering an immersive experience in an environment that has remained unchanged for centuries.

The canyon is part of the ancestral homeland of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. This tribe used the canyons' resources to find shade, shelter, and materials for their daily needs. 

The abundant Juncus grass was used to weave baskets, a craft still practiced today. 

The tribe's presence can be seen in rock art, house pits, foundations, irrigation ditches, and dams. They aptly showcase the tribe's ingenious ways of adapting to the desert environment.

Palm Canyon's history stretches back over two thousand years, transforming it from a Native American oasis to a popular destination for Hollywood's elite, earning it the nickname "Playground of the Stars." Despite this transformation, the natural beauty and tranquility of the canyon have been preserved, allowing visitors to experience the same enchanting landscape that captivated the likes of naturalist John Muir.

The canyon continues to captivate visitors with its unique natural beauty and cultural heritage. Palm Canyon is where you can step off the beaten path and into history, walking the same trails used by the Cahuilla Indians.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

Palm Canyon is a remarkable nature site with many exciting features and fun facts. The canyon stretches over 15 miles and is the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. 

The Cahuilla Indians, who still own the land, consider Palm Canyon sacred. This respect for the land is evident in preserving the area's natural beauty. 

For the intrepid explorers, consider hiking the Palm Canyon Trail, a favorite among trekkers. The 15-mile round-trip trek offers breathtaking views of the canyons.

Another unique feature of Palm Canyon is its lush oasis. It's home to over 450 palms, encompassing 58 species, all within its 2 acres. The oasis is an unexpected sight in the desert landscape, with palms sprouting from cracks in massive rock formations. 

Adding to this surprise is the presence of water, a precious commodity in the desert, flowing through the area.

The Palm Canyon Creek is another amazing feature. It has been designated a Wild & Scenic River, spanning 8.1 miles. The creek supports the nation's largest fan palm oasis, making it a beautiful sight and a crucial regional ecological feature.

A quirky fun fact is that Palm Canyon has a history of camel racing. Although this event no longer exists, this bizarre bit of history adds intrigue to the area.

Palm Canyon has natural wonders, rich history, and unexpected surprises. Whether you're hiking its trails, exploring its oasis, or learning about its past, Palm Canyon offers a unique and memorable vacation experience.

Getting There

Below are directions to Palm Canyon:

• Start on North Palm Canyon Drive toward the northwest
• Continue straight past the intersection with West Alejo Road.
• Go straight and cross the intersection with Vista Chino.
• Continue on North Palm Canyon Drive as it changes into Highway 111.
• Stay on Highway 111 for approximately 6 miles until you see signs for Palm Canyon Drive.
• Turn left onto South Palm Canyon Drive.
• Follow South Palm Canyon Drive for about 2 miles until you reach the Palm Canyon.

Cost

Here are the current costs to visit Palm Canyon

• Adults: $12
• Seniors 62+: $7
• Students: $7 (with student ID)
• Children (6-12): $6
• Military: Free (with U.S. military ID)
• Equestrian: $11

Prices are subject to change. Please check their website for updates.