Art Smith Trail to Hopalong Cassidy Trail

Beginning at the parking lot west of the Santa Rosa Mountains Visitor Center, the trail follows the Art Smith Trail west away from Highway 74. After a mile and a half, of which half of it is climbing, you reach the beginning of the Hopalong Cassidy Trail to the right. The trail goes northbound with beautiful views of the Bighorn Golf Course and Palm Desert. The Hopalong Cassidy Trail winds up and down through canyons before turning eastbound along the southern boundary of Stone Eagle Golf Club. This section of the trail should allow for some peaceful solitude before reaching the Palm Desert Cross, which will likely have numerous hikers. From this point, there are several intersecting trails, and it is important to follow the sign posts in order to stay on the correct trail. With so many trail intersections, there is also more activity on the trail for the rest of the hike north. You'll likely see everything from trail runners to dog walkers from this point on. Overall, this a long hike that is not recommended for those those who are not in shape for a 10 mile hike. There is no water along the trail, so you must bring plenty for the trip.