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THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
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Indian
Canyons Palm Springs
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By Matthew
Martz |
Palm Springs California
offers many options for relaxation away from the big city,
but few know about the Indian Canyon trails that offer
a true break from the hustle and bustle of the city and
are 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.
Crops like melons, squash, beans, and corn were all grown,
and the native plants were used for basket weaving, seeds,
and medicines. Remnants of the culture still exist in
the oasis, as rock drawings and tools can be seen by the
careful observer.
Today, the three canyons are listed on the national register
of historic places. Each has its own degree of trail difficulty
and range in distance --.5 - 15 miles. The Palm Canyon
is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places
in North America. It’s filled to the brim with indigenous
flora and fauna that starkly contrast the rocky gorges
and desert that surround it.
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Palm Canyon Indian Canyons |
A paved footpath
winds down into the canyon and leads to an area that is
perfect for picnicking near the stream. Many explorers enjoy
meditating here. The trail is horse friendly, so consider
that as an option in place of the traditional hike.
While in Palm Canyon, be sure to visit the Trading Post.
It offers hiking maps, refreshments, Indian art and artifacts
and books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, and weavings to take
as a souvenir in remembrance of your trip.
The Andreas canyon is an area of various color greens and
fan palms that contrast one another. There are over 150
plant species within the half-mile radius, so you are sure
to see something new. A scenic trail winds down through
the palmed path, past rock formations thousands of years
old. As you work your way to the creek, you will see remnants
of the Indians who inhabited the area.
Their food preparation tools and mortars are a tempting
souvenir but please leave them behind. Taking them would
limit the adventure for the next explorer to come through.
Indian Canyons is a popular destination for photographers
and bird watchers. There are picnic tables along the way
to stop for a rest and enjoy that lunch you brought. Just
south of Andreas Canyon is the Murray Canyon area. A foot
and equestrian trail leads into beautiful recreational areas.
Many wild animals still roam high above the canyon, and
this is your best chance to catch a glimpse. This area is
less visited so gives a true secluded feel. The endangered
big horn sheep has been spotted here, as well as the endangered
least bells bird that nest along the rocky ridges.
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Palm Canyon Creek |
Palm Tree Forrest Indian Canyons |
Indian Canyon is open 8
am to 5 pm from October through July and in the summer months
from July to September; the trails are only open on weekends.
Reservations and information is available by calling 760-232-6018.
Admission to Indian Canton is $9 for adults, seniors pay
a discounted admission of $7, and children are $5. If you
bring your horse, equestrian admission is $11.00.
Ranger led hikes are available if you prefer a bit of guidance
in your exploration. The guide will take you through a mile
long trail, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours. You must
register ahead of time at the Canyon Trading post, and the
fee is $3 per individual.
If available, visitors can go on a walk with Raven, a worldly
tattooed medicine man who tells terrific tales and spellbinding
stories of Indian legend.Indian Canyon is located a short
two hour drive from Los Angeles or Orange County California.
Set aside a day on your next visit to the area for exploring
the trails, it’s guaranteed to help you find an inner
peace and relaxation. Plenty of lodging and dining is available
in the Palm Springs.
No camping is permitted on the trails, and always bring
plenty of water when hiking in the desert environment.
Indian Canyons 38500 South Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs,
CA 92264 Information Call (760) 323-6018
October thru June
Open Daily: 8am-5pm July thru September
Fri, Sat & Sunday: 8am-5pm |
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Palm
Springs Tram Ride
rotating tram cars 10,000 feet above the desert
floor. A must see attraction. |
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The
Living Desert this one of a kind desert
zoo is an amazing desert oasis. Perfect family day
trip. |
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