
Indian Canyons
Discover a breathtaking desert oasis with lush palm groves, waterfalls, and scenic trails on the Agua Caliente Cahuilla reservation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds

Indian Canyons
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a breathtaking desert oasis with lush palm groves, waterfalls, and scenic trails on the Agua Caliente Cahuilla reservation.
"The world's largest California Fan Palm oasis is right here in Palm Springs!"

💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert hikes! Stay hydrated to enjoy your adventure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for varied terrain and stream crossings.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palm Canyon Oasis
Palm Canyon Trail
Wander through the world's largest California Fan Palm oasis, a lush green paradise in the desert.

Andreas Canyon
Andreas Canyon Trail
Discover stunning waterfalls and streams amidst towering palms and unique rock formations.

Murray Canyon & Seven Sisters Falls
Murray Canyon Trail
A longer trek leading to multiple waterfalls and stream crossings, offering a more adventurous hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Water, Sunscreen, and Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert hikes! Stay hydrated to enjoy your adventure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for varied terrain and stream crossings.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for desert sun.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Heat
Beat the midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert hikes! Stay hydrated to enjoy your adventure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for varied terrain and stream crossings.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for desert sun.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Heat
Beat the midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty; maps at entrance are limited.
🥾 Consider Water Shoes
For wading in streams, especially on longer trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Indian Canyons for its serene beauty and stunning desert oasis landscapes, particularly the lush palm groves. The variety of trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, appeals to many. However, some find the trail markings could be improved, and restroom facilities can be less than ideal.
"Great place to take a hike/walk. Very serene. Go early because it gets pretty hot. The bathrooms by the trading post were pretty smelly. I'd avoid them if you can
Aside from that a great day trip."
Valerie Anthony
"Such a beautiful scenic area.
Definitely worth driving there and to the different trails especially if you’re not a seasoned hiker (like us).
The rangers were really helpful and recommended the Andreas Canyon and Palm Canyon to us. The Andreas Canyon was a totally achievable hike for two novices.
Bring water and some flip flops if you want to wade your feet in water."
Katherine Leung
"My favorite hike in Palm Springs, California is Indian Canyons, which offers numerous surprises. The park features multiple trails, but Palm Canyon stands out as a highlight. Walking through the lush palm forest feels like an oasis, providing ample opportunities to rest and take in breathtaking views. While some trails are quite long, others offer shorter alternatives, although the trail markings could be improved. The park is expansive, with ample parking and restroom facilities. If you're fortunate, you might even spot big horn sheep on the road, which is a delightful experience. Andreas Canyon is another notable feature, boasting stunning waterfalls and streams along the hike. Be prepared for long lines at the entrance, but they typically move quickly. Admission fees are $12 per person, not per vehicle. This destination is suitable for visitors of all ages."
E.C.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Indian Canyons is a short drive from downtown Palm Springs, about 12 minutes. You can easily drive or even take an Uber/Lyft to the entrance.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the entrance and near the trading post.
While direct public transport is limited, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option from Palm Springs hotels.
The park provides maps at the entrance, but cell service is unreliable. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended as the provided maps can be incomplete.
Yes, there is an admission fee of $12 per adult. It's important to note this is per person, not per vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Indian Canyons is typically open daily, but it's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, especially during holidays or for seasonal changes.
The admission fee is $12 per adult. Children may have a different rate, so it's advisable to confirm on their official site.
While advance ticket purchase options might be available, visitors often purchase tickets upon arrival. Be prepared for potential lines, especially during peak times.
Yes, Indian Canyons offers a range of trails suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, from easy loops to more strenuous hikes.
Lines can occur, especially on weekends or holidays. They usually move quickly, but arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the longest waits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular choices include Palm Canyon for its oasis, Andreas Canyon for waterfalls, and Murray Canyon for Seven Sisters Falls. The Victor Loop Trail is also a scenic 2.6-mile option.
Hike durations vary greatly. The Andreas Canyon Trail is a short 1-mile loop, while trails like Murray Canyon can be around 3-4 miles round trip. Plan for 1-3 hours depending on your chosen trail and pace.
Restroom facilities are available, particularly near the trading post and at trailheads. However, some visitors have noted they can be smelly.
While there are streams and waterfalls, swimming is generally not permitted. However, you can wade your feet in the water on some trails.
Keep an eye out for native California Fan Palms, and if you're lucky, you might spot bighorn sheep, especially on the roads.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The lush palm oases, cascading waterfalls in Andreas Canyon, and dramatic rock formations offer incredible photo opportunities. Golden hour light can be magical here.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive palm groves and canyons. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like bighorn sheep.
Yes, even on sunny days, the shade from the palm trees can create beautiful lighting. Look for areas with dappled sunlight or focus on the textures of the rocks and palms.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural and cultural heritage sites. It's best to check the official Indian Canyons regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and fewer harsh shadows, making them ideal for photography. The vibrant greens of the oasis pop in the morning light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older kids or those with more energy, the Palm Canyon Trail provides an immersive experience in a stunning oasis. Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense. Consider bringing water-friendly shoes if your kids enjoy wading in the shallow streams found on some trails. The rangers are often helpful in recommending family-friendly routes.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, pack your own water and snacks from a local grocery store rather than purchasing them at the park. Consider visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Since it's a day-use area, you can easily combine a visit to Indian Canyons with other free or low-cost activities in Palm Springs, making it a great value for a day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Canyons: Trails for Every Hiker
When choosing your trail, consider the time of year and the weather. During hotter months, opting for shorter, shadier trails like Andreas Canyon is advisable. For longer hikes, ensure you have ample water and start early to avoid the peak heat. Trail markings can sometimes be inconsistent, so having a map and being aware of your surroundings is crucial for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Many visitors rave about the serene atmosphere and the feeling of discovering a hidden oasis. The contrast between the arid desert landscape and the vibrant green palm groves is truly remarkable. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Indian Canyons provides a memorable escape into nature's beauty.
The Agua Caliente Cahuilla Heritage
The park preserves the traditional way of life and the natural environment that sustained the Cahuilla people. Visitors can learn about their history and traditions through interpretive signs and the visitor center. The presence of the California Fan Palms, a vital resource for the Cahuilla, is a testament to their deep understanding of the desert ecosystem.
Respecting the cultural heritage of the Agua Caliente people is paramount when visiting. Stick to marked trails, do not disturb any natural or cultural artifacts, and be mindful of the sacredness of the land.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit