A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Desert Edge, California

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Warren Peak (Warren Point) via Black Rock Canyon

Hike Route

Warren Peak (Warren Point) via Black Rock Canyon

Views
moderate
4.79 mi
+1,034 ft
Araby Trail

Hike Route

Araby Trail

Views
easy
1.73 mi
+1,132 ft
West Side Loop via Black Rock Campground

Hike Route

West Side Loop via Black Rock Campground

Less Crowded
moderate
4.98 mi
+908 ft
View Loop

Hike Route

View Loop

Less Crowded
easy
1.99 mi
+355 ft
Tahquitz Canyon

Hike Route

Tahquitz Canyon

Family Friendly
moderate
1.82 mi
+317 ft
Hi-View Nature Trail

Hike Route

Hi-View Nature Trail

Family Friendly
moderate
1.31 mi
+338 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Bigfoot Trail Loop

Hike Route

Bigfoot Trail Loop

Views
extreme
29.08 mi
+4,544 ft
Cactus to Clouds: Palm Springs - Mt. San Jacinto

Hike Route

Cactus to Clouds: Palm Springs - Mt. San Jacinto

Views
strenuous
27.65 mi
+11,025 ft
Black Rock Campground to Ryan Camp

Hike Route

Black Rock Campground to Ryan Camp

Views
extreme
38.41 mi
+4,761 ft
Covington Loop

Hike Route

Covington Loop

Less Crowded
extreme
18.4 mi
+1,997 ft
Joshua Tree Traverse

Hike Route

Joshua Tree Traverse

Views
extreme
36.29 mi
+3,026 ft
Central Joshua Tree Loop

Hike Route

Central Joshua Tree Loop

Less Crowded
extreme
37.41 mi
+4,145 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Warren Peak + Panorama Loop

Hike Route

Warren Peak + Panorama Loop

Less Crowded
strenuous
7.69 mi
+1,766 ft
Warren Peak Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Warren Peak Out-and-Back

Views
moderate
5.62 mi
+1,172 ft
South Lykken Trail

Hike Route

South Lykken Trail

Views
moderate
8.6 mi
+2,531 ft
San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Hike Route

San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Views
strenuous
9.96 mi
+2,767 ft
Art Smith Trail to Hopalong Cassidy Trail

Hike Route

Art Smith Trail to Hopalong Cassidy Trail

Dogs Allowed
strenuous
9.48 mi
+2,589 ft
Maze Loop

Hike Route

Maze Loop

Views
moderate
6.33 mi
+817 ft