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
easy
2.22 mi
+610 ft
Randall Henderson Loop

Hike Route

Randall Henderson Loop

Views
easy
1.91 mi
+290 ft
Dead Indian Canyon

Hike Route

Dead Indian Canyon

Less Crowded
easy
2.08 mi
+214 ft
View Loop

Hike Route

View Loop

Less Crowded
easy
1.99 mi
+301 ft
Araby Trail

Hike Route

Araby Trail

Views
easy
1.75 mi
+1,028 ft
Palm Canyon + Victor Trail Loop

Hike Route

Palm Canyon + Victor Trail Loop

Views
easy
2.75 mi
+559 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.

Art Smith Trail to Cathedral Canyon

Hike Route

Art Smith Trail to Cathedral Canyon

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

Hike Route

La Quinta Cove to Pinyon Pines

Views
extreme
14.24 mi
+5,664 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section B

Views
extreme
98 mi
+16,795 ft
Jack Millers Cabin Via Martinez Canyon

Hike Route

Jack Millers Cabin Via Martinez Canyon

Birding
extreme
21.8 mi
+3,200 ft
Gold Shot Stamp Mill Out and Back

Hike Route

Gold Shot Stamp Mill Out and Back

Views
extreme
15.18 mi
+2,541 ft
Cactus to Clouds: Palm Springs - Mt. San Jacinto

Hike Route

Cactus to Clouds: Palm Springs - Mt. San Jacinto

Views
extreme
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
+1,889 ft
South Lykken Trail

Hike Route

South Lykken Trail

Views
strenuous
8.6 mi
+2,531 ft
Fobes Trail

Hike Route

Fobes Trail

Views
strenuous
8.1 mi
+2,683 ft
San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Hike Route

San Jacinto Peak via Tram

Views
strenuous
9.96 mi
+2,619 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
strenuous
6.7 mi
+1,808 ft