Journey Through the Indian Canyons in Palm Springs
A beautiful oasis of thousands of palm trees arises from the base of the San Jacinto Mountain range just a short drive from downtown Palm Springs.
The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians care for the more than 60 miles of trails running through pristine scenery of the Indian Canyons, the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente people who have inhabited this area since time immemorial.
The land celebrates a variety of landscapes from canyon gorges and open desert landscapes to waterfalls, spring-fed mountain creeks and the world’s largest oasis of Washingtonia filifera palm trees, also known as the California fan palm.
The Washingtonia filifera palm tree is the only native palm tree to the California desert and grows naturally on the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation
Ancestors once found shelter in the jagged rock formations, the shade of its lush palm groves, and the perennial water flows. Visitors are invited to enjoy the original trails of the Agua Caliente people, and see evidence of times gone by with rock mortar grounds and rock art that remain in the area today.
Water runs through Palm Canyon each winter and spring, creating a beautiful setting for a day in nature.
Palm Canyon
Fifteen miles long, Palm Canyon is one of the areas of great beauty in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, which Agua Caliente ancestors so expertly used, and its abundant palm trees are breathtaking contrasts to the stark rocky gorges and desert lands beyond. A moderately graded foot path winds down into the canyon for picnicking near the stream, meditation, exploring, hiking or horseback riding. While in Palm Canyon, visit the Trading Post for hiking maps, refreshments, Native American art and jewelry, books, pottery and baskets.
Andreas Canyon
The contrasting greens of the magnificent palm trees and more than 150 species of plants within a half-mile radius beckon the desert traveler to this lush oasis. A scenic foot trail leads through the canyon passing groves of stately skirted palms, unique rock formations and the seasonal Andreas Creek. One can still see the bedrock mortars used by the ancestors of the Agua Caliente people to prepare food. This tranquil setting is excellent for bird watching and enjoy the sounds of nature
Beautiful yellow brittlebush flowers dot the trail through Murray Canyons in the Indian Canyons in Palm Springs
Murray Canyon
Murray Canyon is a moderate hike through the palm trees. Fortunate visitors may catch a glimpse of endangered Peninsular Big Horn Sheep, mule deer or other animals that call this canyon home. Murray Canyon is known for its secluded beauty. In fact, endangered Least Bells Vireo bird is also known to nest here.
During your visit, don’t miss the opportunity for another great exploration and hiking adventure in Palm Springs at...
Tahquitz Canyon
Tahquitz Canyon is just a short drive from the Indian Canyons and is closer to downtown Palm Springs. Here, visitors will find one of the most beautiful and culturally sensitive areas of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. Tahquitz Canyon is home to a spectacular seasonal 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife and a variety of plants. Located at the entrance of the canyon, the Tahquitz Visitor Center offers educational and cultural exhibits. The center also includes an observation deck and a theater room for viewing The Legend of Tahquitz video.
