Sunrise is the best time to hit the trails in the greater Palm Springs area, and it’s not just about the tough-to-beat-views. It’s because it lines up perfectly with the desert’s ideal climate, lighting and is great for avoiding the crowds.
Factor in that following some scorching temperatures in the Coachella Valley in March, the morning hours in April have been especially pleasant. That trend is expected to continue, at least for a couple more weeks.
The cooler morning temperatures make the hikes much less grueling than later in the day, when exposed trails can feel considerably warmer due to radiant heat from rocks and sand. And the colors seem to pop a little more as the golden lighting hit the mountains.
So, if you’re a local resident or simply in town for a music festival or spring break, consider this your invitation to take advantage of this window to hit the valley trails.
If I may, allow me to suggest some trails to hit in the morning, if you decide to go. These are three moderately challenging trails that most anyone can do, which will offer spectacular morning views and a slight challenge.
The Cross Trail (Palm Desert)
This, in my opinion, is a perfectly designed hike for sunrise. It’s not difficult and the views of the rising sun are some of the best in the valley.
It’s 2.3 miles from the parking lot to the cross and back, and you climb about 600 feet in elevation and back down. So, it’s not too difficult for most.
You’ll hike up to the Palm Desert Cross, which is a landmark in the valley. It’s a large cross mounted on the hillside that is lit up by solar-powered lights when dark. The cross is visible from the valley floor in and around Palm Desert at night.
It was originally installed back in the 1970s and in the years since it’s become more of a community gathering spot and scenic landmark.
Once at the top, you’ll often find other hikers quietly meditating as the sun rises over the surrounding mountains. It’s a calm, deeply profound experience, and not even for religious reasons.
Trailhead address: 72-500 Thrush Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260
How to get there: Driving south, toward Idyllwild, on Highway 74, turn right onto Thrush Drive and cross the small bridge that leads to the parking lot. Follow signs to the trailhead.
East Indio Hills Badlands Trail (Indio)
In the eastern part of the valley, this is a really good one because of the views, the dramatic terrain and the convenience for so many living in that area.
This is a trail that is five miles out and back and about 800 feet of elevation gain. If you complete the entire hike, expect it to take 2-3 hours. If you don’t have that time, no worries. You can turn back at any point.
What makes this one special is that it’s a bit remote, at least compared to hikes in Palm Desert, La Quinta and Palm Springs. So, smaller crowds. Because it’s near the San Andreas faultline, it’s also geologically unique to almost any other hike in the valley.
This one offers unique rock formations, slot canyons and sharp ridgelines that really pop in the dramatic light of the morning. That texture really stands out and makes the view much more spectacular.
The trail is a bit exposed, with almost no shade, so consider that when hiking this one after sunrise.
Trailhead address: 42-000 Golf Center Parkway, Indio 92203
How to get there: From I-10, take Golf Center Parkway north. Drive 1.2 miles north, directly to the trailhead parking lot. Once parked, cross a small bridge over the canal and stay to the left.
Simonetta Kennett Viewpoint (Palm Springs)
This is a scenic overlook hike that includes a morning meditation spot perched in a secluded corner of Palm Springs. It has been described as though you’re standing on a balcony overlooking one of the most beautiful spots in the entire valley.
It’s my favorite morning hike in Palm Springs. The sweeping views are stunning and the lighting at dawn is near-perfect.
It’s close to three miles up and back down the trail, and probably a little more than 600 feet in elevation. I’d plan about two hours on this trail, including the time you’ll want to spend at the top, observing the view.
Because the viewpoint faces north and east, the sunrise brings to life the entire basin of the valley. The suggestion here is to start the hike at least 45 minutes before sunrise to get the best lighting.
There will be other hikers on this trail, but it’s not terribly busy. Some will be at the top, meditating. The top offers a quiet serenity and some picnic tables to help you enjoy a morning snack or breakfast.
The only downside to this hike, at least for me, is that I live 45 minutes from the trailhead.
Trailhead address: South Lykken Trailhead. Where S. Palm Canyon and Mesquite Avenue meet in Palm Springs.
How to get there: From Palm Springs, take S. Palm Canyon Drive south to Murray Canyon Drive. The trailhead is just after that intersection, on the right.
[This story has been updated to correct an error]
Andrew John covers sports and recreation at The Desert Sun. Email him at andrew.john@desertsun.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: 3 Palm Springs area sunrise hikes to do before summer heat sets in
Reporting by Andrew John, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
