Araby Trail

The Araby Trail is a moderately difficult uphill climb into the low mountainous area of Palm Springs that takes hikers past wide views of the city as well as along some of the city's classic architecture.The exposed desert trail begins at the side of East Palm Canyon Drive, following a narrow dirt track that lies wedged between a mobile home park and a hillside private development. As the trail makes its way up, it leaves the mobile home estates behind, and begins paralleling some envy-inducing homes who share views across the Palm Springs and Coachella Valley area with hikers.Notably along this route is the unique architecture of the Hope Residence, the home once resided in by Bob and Dolores Hope standing at the highest point of the development. Finished in 1979 by John Lautner, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the home is often marvelled at by drivers along the roads below. The Araby Trail puts hikers eye level with the home. The trail climbs about 1000' in total, following a gradual gain that has switchbacks at its narrowest and steepest points. Due to its accessibility and the features along the hike, the trail tends to get busy during peak hiking times.After passing the Hope Residence and switching back at several points, the trail intersects with several other trails. A high point to the right marks a natural spot to stop and take in the views. From here, hikers can continue on one of the trails that continues gaining elevation into the backcountry, or follow another course that climbs and descends along the lower topography of the mountains, or they can turn around here and retrace their route back down.Parking is free where Rim Road intersects with East Palm Canyon Drive, however spots are limited and will often fill up. There is additional parking along the shoulder of Palm Canyon Drive in front of the bushes lining the mobile home park immediately east of Rim Road, just make sure your car is completely off the road. No dogs are permitted along the Araby Trail. There are no bathrooms and no water available anywhere along the trailhead or hike, and the trail Is completely exposed to sun, so plan accordingly.