Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
A stunning desert oasis and vital wildlife habitat, offering diverse trails and exceptional birdwatching.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & active wildlife
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
Best Time
Cooler temps & active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning desert oasis and vital wildlife habitat, offering diverse trails and exceptional birdwatching.
"A true oasis with fantastic bird watching and wildlife, perfect for a peaceful desert escape."
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting the diverse birdlife and other wildlife from a distance.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! 💧
The desert sun is intense. Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riparian Oasis
Main canyon floor
Discover one of California's largest cottonwood and willow habitats, a lush contrast to the surrounding desert.
Birdwatcher's Paradise
Near entrance and throughout preserve
Spot over 230 bird species, including vibrant Western Bluebirds and hummingbirds, especially near feeders.
Wildlife Encounters
Various trails
Keep an eye out for deer, lizards, bobcats, and even the occasional bear or mountain lion.
Accessible Boardwalks
Near entrance
Enjoy easy, flat boardwalk trails perfect for all mobility levels, offering a serene nature walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Respect the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting the diverse birdlife and other wildlife from a distance. 
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! 💧
The desert sun is intense. Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes.
Stay on Marked Trails 🥾
Protect the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Early Bird Gets the Worm (and Birds!) 🐦
Mornings offer cooler temperatures and the best chances for wildlife sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting the diverse birdlife and other wildlife from a distance.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! 💧
The desert sun is intense. Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes.
Stay on Marked Trails 🥾
Protect the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Early Bird Gets the Worm (and Birds!) 🐦
Mornings offer cooler temperatures and the best chances for wildlife sightings.
Donation Welcome 🙏
The preserve relies on donations to maintain its beauty and accessibility.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Big Morongo Canyon Preserve as a beautiful desert oasis offering fantastic birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities. The accessible boardwalks are a plus for all visitors, though some note that certain trails can be exposed to the sun. It's a highly recommended spot for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
"Took a Monday 8am stroll with all trails to myself. Very quiet & relaxing. Loved seeing the various birds and other small critters crossing my path. Wish I had more time to walk further up the canyon. Recommend doing your hiking early. Not a lot of shade in some areas. ALL GOOD THOUGH!"
Laurie J. Herndon
"We went for a morning hike at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, and were hoping for some good bird watching. It was both a great hike and had great bird watching! The trails are well marked and there are several - they are marked for distance and difficulty. The bird watching on the trails was good, but it was really great not too far from the entrance were a fountain and various bird feeders had been set up. We saw a huge flock of Western Bluebirds, it was fantastic. We also saw hummingbirds, plenty of various finches, scrub jays, woodpeckers, and more. It was great!"
Donna DS
"Absolutely incredible birding. Saw more than a dozen hummingbirds and tons of other species. Go to the natural science education center feeders. Free."
Eric
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is located between Palm Springs and Yucca Valley. Access is typically via Highway 62. Many visitors find it a convenient stop on a road trip through Southern California.
Yes, there is a parking area available at the preserve entrance. It can fill up on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Entry to the preserve is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support its upkeep and conservation efforts.
The trails are generally well-marked. Consider downloading an offline map or using a hiking app like AllTrails, especially for longer routes.
The boardwalk trails near the entrance are stroller-friendly. For other trails, a rugged jogging stroller might be helpful, but many are uneven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required for entry. The preserve is free to access, though donations are appreciated.
The preserve is typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official website or local listings for any seasonal changes or closures.
While official guided tours may not always be scheduled, local birding groups or docents might be present, especially during peak seasons. Check for any posted information at the visitor center.
Generally, pets are not allowed in the preserve to protect the wildlife and their habitats. Please verify current regulations before your visit.
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for the preserve's maintenance and conservation. A donation box is usually available near the entrance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see over 230 species of birds, including Western Bluebirds and hummingbirds. Deer, lizards, bobcats, and even occasional bears and mountain lions have been spotted.
The preserve offers a range of trails, from easy, flat boardwalks to more challenging canyon hikes. Trail difficulty and distance are usually marked.
Some areas, particularly along the boardwalk and in the main canyon, offer shade from cottonwood and willow trees. However, some exposed sections can get very hot.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, layers of clothing, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen). Bring plenty of water.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the entrance and visitor center area.
📸 📸 Photography
The riparian areas, bird feeders, and scenic canyon views offer great photo opportunities. Look for wildlife along the trails.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural preserves to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. Check specific park regulations.
A telephoto lens is excellent for capturing birds and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for landscape shots of the canyon.
Yes, with patience and the right equipment, you can photograph various birds and animals. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best.
General photography is allowed, but avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging vegetation. Respect any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be fascinated by the diverse wildlife, especially the birds near the feeders and the chance to spot lizards or deer. Encourage your children to be quiet observers and point out the different plants and animals they see. Bringing binoculars can add an extra layer of excitement to their exploration. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting in the cooler morning hours to make the experience more comfortable for everyone.
🐦 Birdwatchers
Bring your best binoculars and a field guide. Early mornings and late afternoons often yield the most activity. Explore the different trails to experience varied habitats, from the shaded canyon floor to higher desert slopes, each potentially offering unique avian encounters.
🚶♀️ Solitude Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Desert Oasis: The Preserve's Ecology
The contrast between the arid desert landscape and the cool, shaded canyon floor is striking. Visitors can explore this unique ecosystem via well-maintained trails, including accessible boardwalks that allow everyone to experience the tranquility. The preserve's importance extends beyond its scenic beauty; it plays a crucial role in regional biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Understanding the delicate balance of this desert oasis is key to appreciating your visit. By staying on marked paths and respecting the natural environment, you contribute to the preservation of this special place for future generations and the wildlife that calls it home.
Wildlife Watching: Tips for Success
+1Pay close attention to the areas near the entrance where bird feeders and a fountain have been set up; these spots are known for attracting a high concentration of birdlife, including vibrant Western Bluebirds and hummingbirds.
While sightings of larger mammals like deer are common, encounters with bears or mountain lions are rare but possible. Always maintain a safe distance, never feed wildlife, and be aware of your surroundings. The preserve's educational center may also offer insights into recent wildlife sightings and tips for observation.
Hiking Trails for Everyone
More adventurous hikers can explore longer trails that venture deeper into the canyon. These routes can be more challenging, with uneven terrain and elevation changes, but they reward visitors with stunning desert vistas and opportunities for more secluded wildlife encounters. Trail markers indicate difficulty and distance, helping you choose the best route for your outing.
Regardless of the trail you choose, remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and wear sun protection. Hiking early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid the desert heat, especially during warmer months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit