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THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
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Tahquitz
Canyon Palm Springs Day Trip
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By Matthew
Martz |
If you’re looking for a peaceful
getaway close to home, than Tahquitz Canyon should
be on your list. It is truly one of the crown jewels
of southern California early history. Situated just
west of Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, Tahquitz
Canyon is home to an idyllic desert environment just
on the edge of modern civilization.
Owned and revitalized by the Agua Caliente band of
Cahuilla Indians, this desert wilderness reveals incredible
rock formations, pools, flowers and wildlife, with
the centerpiece being a spectacular 60-foot seasonal
waterfall that can be easily accessed by traversing
a moderate to sometimes steep 2-mile trail loop with
an elevation gain of 350 feet.
Upon arrival, visitors will find that while parking
is free, they will be asked to shell out a moderate
entrance fee of $12.50 for adults and $6.00 for children
$6.00 12 and under. The best part, is that the wristband
they give you to wear, also entitles visitors to receive
a $1 off discount to nearby Indian Canyon.
Located at the entrance to the canyon,
is the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center. Here you will
find a few cultural and educational exhibits mixed
in with some interesting rock art, and ancient native
American artifacts. There is also an observation deck,
and a theatre room for viewing a video that narrates
the legend of Tahquitz Canyon.
The 15-minute video tells of the legend of Tah-kwish,
an Indian shaman or medicine man, who after abusing
his special powers, was banished into the canyon.
According to the legend, Tah-kwish survived by changing
himself into a green ball, stealing people's souls
and eating them.
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 Tahquitz
Canyon Visitor Center
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Many stories have been handed down by
elders that give detailed accounts of Tah-kwish kidnapping
young maidens, including a young woman that was found
dead in her bed the next morning after revealing that
she had been abducted and released by her wicked capture.
To this day, the evil Tah-kwish is said to still be taking
the souls of those foolhardy enough to venture into his
into his rocky lair. Some Cahuilla tribe members refuse
to enter, just to be safe.
After watching the movie, make sure you get a hiking brochure
that points out all the different stops along the trail
to the falls, explaining some of the canyon's history
and the natural vegetation.
The hike itself leads in a southwest direction
mostly along the western side of the canyon, and as you
traverse the footpath you will discover many plants that
the early native residents of the area used for food,
tea and medicinal purposes.
At one spot, there is a large slab of granite that is
known as “Spirit Rock,” where according to
legend, is a spot that the Cahuilla Indians will not cross
for fear of getting their soul eaten.
As you continue the walk up into the canyon, depending
on the season, a healthy flow of water which is the result
of snowmelt from the San Jacinto Mountains, reveals itself.
Finally, after a short walk up a hillside trail, the famous
Tahquitz Falls suddenly appears. A breathtaking sight,
the sycamore-shaded paradise is framed by massive boulders
and at the bottom of the falls is a cool, inviting pool.
Hollywood director Frank Capra used the falls as a backdrop
in his 1937 film Lost Horizon. In the film this is called
Shangri-La.
The walk back down the canyon offers panoramic views of
Palm Springs and the valley below where Cahuilla Indians
built the Coachella Valley's first village more than 3,000
years ago. Today, the site is occupied by the Agua Caliente
Spa Resort and Casino.
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Tahquitz Canyon 60 ft. Waterfall |
Tahquitz Canyon
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Tahquitz Canyon's blend of mythical malevolence
and natural beauty is a great escape from the normal winter
doldrums, as moderately warm temperatures are inviting.
Located at 500 West Mesquite Road, Palm Springs, CA 92016.
Tahquitz Canyon is about two hours east of Los Angeles
proper and one and a half hours from central Orange County.
Take the 10 freeway then exit towards Palm Springs. Get
over onto Palm Canyon Dr. - the "main drag"
- when it bends, keep going straight. Turn right on Mesquite.
The visitor's center is up ahead and you park in their
lot.
The canyon is is open daily from October through June
7:30AM - 5:00PM. Friday, Saturday & Sunday July through
September 7:30AM - 5:00PM
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Palm
Springs Tram ride from catus to the
clouds onboard 360 degree rotaing tram cars. |
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The
Living Desert this one of a kind desert
zoo & gardens is an amazing desert oasis. |
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