Near Tahquitz Canyon
Finishing up the loop through Tahquitz Canyon.
Near Tahquitz Canyon
A narrow benching and lots of rocks give the trail a nice wild feel without being overly taxing.
Near Tahquitz Canyon
Looking back into Palm Springs from Tahquitz Canyon.
Near Tahquitz Canyon
Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall after spring rain
Near Tahquitz Canyon
Lookout rock named Kak Wa Wit at the mouth of Tahquitz Canyon

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Tahquitz Canyon

3.7 (9 Ratings)
Enjoy a peaceful 1.8 mile loop through a dramatic desert canyon.
1.8
mi
Distance
317
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWaterfall
Access Issues
Hours and dates vary seasonally and there is an entrance fee for each visitor. For more information, <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.tahquitzcanyon.com/tahquitz_hours">click here</a>. Watch out for rattlesnakes.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.82mi
Distance
317ft
Elevation Gain
317ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
868ft
High Point
565ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
After exiting the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center, the rocky singletrack climbs gradually across a wide drainage as it works towards a small creek with a low, picturesque rock bridge. From there, the trail switchbacks up along the edge of the canyon with occasional stone steps leading the way. Hikers will work around plenty of scattered boulders and start to get a nice framed view of Palm Springs back down the canyon. All the while the towering walls provide a dramatic backdrop of stone and shrubs. You may encounter visitors traveling the other direction, which can make for slightly awkward passing, especially higher up as the trail nears the waterfall. You'll know you're getting close when the narrow trail starts passing beneath low trees. If you're lucky enough to catch it when it's flowing, the waterfall sets a lovely scene as it runs down a weathered rock wall to drop in a shallow pool of water. Across another low bridge, the singletrack continues climbing up the other side of the canyon before dropping down on the return. About 0.3 miles later it connects back to itself. Head right to the next junction where a short hike on Tahquitz Canyon Alternate concludes back at the visitor center.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Lani Advokat