A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Indian Wells, 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.

Homestead Trail to Palm Desert Cross

Hike Route

Homestead Trail to Palm Desert Cross

Views
strenuous
2.22 mi
+691 ft
Randall Henderson Loop

Hike Route

Randall Henderson Loop

Views
easy
1.8 mi
+293 ft
Dead Indian Canyon

Hike Route

Dead Indian Canyon

Less Crowded
easy
2.08 mi
+262 ft
View Loop

Hike Route

View Loop

Less Crowded
easy
1.99 mi
+355 ft
Araby Trail

Hike Route

Araby Trail

Views
easy
1.73 mi
+1,132 ft
Palm Canyon + Victor Trail Loop

Hike Route

Palm Canyon + Victor Trail Loop

Views
easy
2.75 mi
+615 ft
Logo

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.

Art Smith Trail to Cathedral Canyon

Hike Route

Art Smith Trail to Cathedral Canyon

Less Crowded
moderate
11.86 mi
+2,454 ft
La Quinta Cove to Pinyon Pines

Hike Route

La Quinta Cove to Pinyon Pines

Views
strenuous
14.24 mi
+5,665 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Views
extreme
98 mi
+20,754 ft
Jack Millers Cabin Via Martinez Canyon

Hike Route

Jack Millers Cabin Via Martinez Canyon

Birding
strenuous
21.8 mi
+3,203 ft
Gold Shot Stamp Mill Out and Back

Hike Route

Gold Shot Stamp Mill Out and Back

Views
strenuous
15.18 mi
+2,881 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.

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
South Lykken Trail

Hike Route

South Lykken Trail

Views
moderate
8.6 mi
+2,531 ft
Fobes Trail

Hike Route

Fobes Trail

Views
moderate
5.45 mi
+1,698 ft
San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Hike Route

San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Views
strenuous
9.96 mi
+2,767 ft
Lost Horse Mine Loop

Hike Route

Lost Horse Mine Loop

Views
moderate
6.28 mi
+895 ft
Deer Springs to Suicide Rock

Hike Route

Deer Springs to Suicide Rock

Dogs Allowed
moderate
6.7 mi
+1,982 ft