Andreas Canyon Trail
Located within the Indian Canyons Preserve near Palm Springs, the Andreas Canyon Trail is a scenic and relatively short hike offering a blend of desert landscape and lush palm oases. This guide will provide key details about the trail, its unique features, and what to expect along the way.
Trail Details
| Trail Length | 1 miles (round trip) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Elevation Gain | 200 feet |
| Estimated Time | 30-40 mins |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Terrain | Sand, dirt paths, rocky sections |
| Best Time to Visit | Late fall through early spring |
| Dog Friendly | Yes, on leash |
| Parking | Available at the Indian Canyons parking lot |
| Restrooms | Yes, at trailhead |
| Elevation at Trailhead | 300 feet |
| Trailhead GPS | 33.760798, -116.549510 |
| Trailhead Address | S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264 |
| Info Number | 760-323-6018 |
Getting to Andreas Canyon Trailhead
To reach the Andreas Canyon Trailhead from Palm Springs, head south on South Palm Canyon Drive, then turn left onto East Murray Canyon Drive. Follow this road until you arrive at the Andreas Canyon parking area.
The trailhead is located at the south end of the parking lot. For visitors coming from Los Angeles, take the I-10 East and merge onto CA-111 South, continuing into Palm Springs. From there, follow the directions to the parking area. There is ample parking available at the trailhead.
Trail Description
Andreas Canyon is a historically and culturally significant site for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The Andreas Canyon Trail is an easy 1-mile loop (round trip) that immerses hikers in the striking contrasts of Southern California’s desert environment. Taking 30–40 minutes to complete, this hike offers a manageable elevation gain of 200 feet, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Starting at the Trail Information Board just north of the bridge, the trail leads west along the north side of the perennial Andreas Creek. Along the way, you’ll encounter the world’s second-largest California Fan Palm oasis, a lush respite amidst the arid desert landscape.
Ancient rock mortars near the trailhead provide a glimpse into the lives of the area’s first inhabitants, adding a historical touch to the journey.
The trail’s first half meanders through a narrow canyon, offering up-close views of towering rocky cliffs, sycamores, cottonwoods, and the iconic California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera). Crossing the creek at the fence, the trail returns along the upper stream terrace to the parking area, rewarding hikers with spectacular vistas of the oasis and the surrounding harsh desert.
It’s an ideal spot for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a serene escape into nature. Keep an eye out for quail, bighorn sheep, and other desert wildlife along the way.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to hike Andreas Canyon Trail is during the year’s cooler months, from late fall to early spring. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, so hiking early in the morning or later in the evening is advisable to avoid midday heat.
Tips for Hikers
- Bring plenty of water, especially in the warmer months.
- Wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can get rocky in certain sections.
- Respect wildlife and stay on the marked trail to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
About the Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons near Palm Springs are a remarkable natural and cultural treasure, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the stunning landscapes of the Colorado Desert. These canyons, including Andreas, Murray, and Palm Canyons, feature lush oases of California fan palms—some of the largest in the world—fed by perennial streams that wind through dramatic desert terrain.
Towering rocky cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of native flora and fauna create an otherworldly contrast to the surrounding arid environment. Ancient rock mortars, petroglyphs, and the remains of traditional dwellings highlight the area’s significance as a place of habitation for the Cahuilla people for thousands of years.
