Day Trips in Palm Springs: Your Ultimate Guide

Palm Springs, a vibrant desert city in California, offers an array of opportunities for memorable day trips. Here’s a curated list of exciting destinations within easy reach for your next adventure!

Joshua Tree National Park

• Distance from Palm Springs: Approximately 45 miles northwest
• Highlights: Stunning desert landscapes, iconic rock formations (e.g., Hidden Valley, Keys View), stargazing opportunities
• Tips: Pack plenty of water, wear protective clothing and shoes, and avoid the hottest hours of the day during summer months

Indian Canyons

• Distance from Palm Springs: Approximately 15 miles northeast
• Highlights: Hiking trails through lush palm oases (e.g., Murray Canyon, Andreas Canyon), ancient Native American rock art
• Tips: Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and bring a hat to shield yourself from the sun

Salton Sea

• Distance from Palm Springs: Approximately 50 miles east
• Highlights: Scenic views, wildlife observation (e.g., American White Pelicans, Brown Pelicans), art installations at Salvation Mountain and Slab City
• Tips: Bring binoculars for bird watching and be prepared for the stark beauty of this unique landscape

Pioneertown

• Distance from Palm Springs: Approximately 18 miles northwest
• Highlights: Authentic old west town, live music venues (e.g., Pappy & Harriet’s), film location history (e.g., Western movies and TV shows)
• Tips: Check event schedules for live performances, and take a tour of the historic buildings in town

San Jacinto Mountains

• Distance from Palm Springs: Approximately 18 miles northwest (Mountain access roads may vary)
• Highlights: Scenic drives, hiking trails, skiing and snowboarding during winter months at Mountain Resorts like Snow Summit and Big Bear Mountain Resort
• Tips: Check weather conditions before embarking on mountain adventures, and ensure you have the necessary gear for your chosen activity