Palm Springs Hiking Indian Canyons
Each time we have been to the Indian Canyon trails it seems to offer a true break from the hustle and bustle of the OC lifestyle and is a great alternative if you don’t have the time to visit nearby Joshua Tree National Monument. Creeks and waterfalls offer a chance to sit and enjoy a lunch after a stress-relieving hike. Three areas are available and each offers a unique experience. Be sure to pay close attention, as many endangered wildlife can be seen along the way. Hundreds of years ago, the Agua Caliente Cahuilla Indians settled in the region of Palm Springs. Communities developed around the fresh water supply, and ample hunting was available with the abundant wildlife.
Fifteen miles long, Palm Canyon trail is one of the areas of great beauty in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, which the Cahuilla people so expertly used and its abundant Washingtonia filifera (California Fan Palm) are breathtaking contrasts to the stark rocky gorges and barren desert lands beyond. A moderately graded, paved foot path winds down into the canyon for picnicking near the stream, meditating, exploring, hiking or horseback riding. While in Palm Canyon visit the Trading Post for hiking maps, refreshments, Indian art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weaving, and conversational cultural lore
The Andreas Canyon trail and it's contrasting greens of the magnificent fan palms and more than 150 species of plants within a half-mile radius beckon the desert-weary traveler to this lush oasis. A scenic foot trail leads through the canyon passing groves of stately skirted palms, unusual rock formations and the perennial Andreas Creek. One can still see bedrock mortars and metates used centuries ago for preparing food. This tranquil setting is excellent for photography, bird-watching, or a picnic at one of the tables along the trail.
Murray Canyon trail is an easy hike south from Andreas Canyon. Foot and equestrian trails lead to beautiful recreational areas among the many palm trees. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of the Peninsula Big Horn Sheep (an endangered species), mule deer or other wild animals still roaming the high ground above the canyon. Less visited, Murray Canyon has its own secluded beauty. The endangered Least Bells Vireo bird is known to nest here. This is my favorite, but i haven't seen them all. I enjoyed the cool waters and beautiful palms. They made me feel like i was world away and being able to enjoy God's creations in one of it's many splendors is always a joy!
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