A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Desert Hot Springs, 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.

Canyon View Loop

Hike Route

Canyon View Loop

Dogs Allowed
moderate
3.8 mi
+740 ft
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
Tahquitz Canyon

Hike Route

Tahquitz Canyon

Family Friendly
moderate
1.82 mi
+317 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
Araby Trail

Hike Route

Araby Trail

Views
easy
1.73 mi
+1,132 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.

Mission Creek Lollipop

Hike Route

Mission Creek Lollipop

strenuous
12.36 mi
+1,719 ft
Sand to Snow Monument

Hike Route

Sand to Snow Monument

Views
extreme
30.09 mi
+9,286 ft
Cottonwood Canyon to Red Dome

Hike Route

Cottonwood Canyon to Red Dome

Views
extreme
16.47 mi
+3,616 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section C

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section C

Lake
extreme
127.03 mi
+23,653 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Views
extreme
98 mi
+20,754 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

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
Pioneertown Mountain Preserve Indian Loop

Hike Route

Pioneertown Mountain Preserve Indian Loop

River/Creek
strenuous
6.47 mi
+1,110 ft
Deer Springs to Suicide Rock

Hike Route

Deer Springs to Suicide Rock

Dogs Allowed
moderate
6.7 mi
+1,982 ft