Big Morongo Canyon Hiking Guide
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, located in Morongo Valley, CA, offers a variety of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, from marshlands to desert terrain.
The preserve covers approximately 30,000 acres and is a vital wildlife corridor and an internationally recognized birding site, home to over 247 bird species.
Hikers can explore routes ranging from easy boardwalk paths to challenging canyon trails, making this destination appealing to nature enthusiasts and hikers of all skill levels. The preserve is also a gateway to the Sand to Snow National Monument.
Trail Details
| Trail type | Loop, out-and-back options |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Length | Varies by trail (e.g., 0.65 to 5 miles) |
| Location | 34.049792, -116.581617 |
| Location | Morongo Valley, CA |
| Season | Year-round |
| Information Number | 760-363-7190 |
| Website | https://bigmorongo.org/ |
Getting to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
From Palm Springs, head north on CA-62 for approximately 20 miles until you reach East Drive in Morongo Valley. Turn right onto East Drive, and the preserve entrance will be on your left after about half a mile.
For those coming from Los Angeles, take I-10 East and exit onto CA-62 North toward Morongo Valley. Follow CA-62 to East Drive and turn right. The trailhead has ample parking, an information kiosk, and restrooms.
Trails Overview
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve offers a mix of trails catering to various skill levels and interests. Visitors can enjoy the ADA-accessible Marsh Trail, a boardwalk that winds through riparian and marsh habitats rich with bird species and native flora.
Desert Willow Trail provides a short, scenic walk through desert landscapes dotted with towering yucca and mesquite trees, offering a more immersive experience of the area’s unique vegetation.
For a longer hike, take the West Canyon or Canyon Trail. These trails delve deeper into the canyon, where hikers may spot mule deer, bighorn sheep, and even mountain lions.
These trails can be moderately challenging, with a mix of terrain that includes sandy paths, rocky sections, and occasional water crossings. Keep an eye out for the numerous bird species inhabiting the area, especially during migration seasons when bird activity is at its peak.
The Mesquite Trail and Yucca Ridge Trail offer sweeping views of the Morongo Basin and nearby mountains. These trails feature mild elevation changes and provide a rewarding experience for both casual and experienced hikers. The preserve’s rich biodiversity makes it a prime spot for nature photography, especially along trails with lush vegetation and shaded areas.
Docent-led hikes are available for those interested in guided experiences, offering insights into the preserve’s natural history and ecology. Regular bird walks, led by knowledgeable birders, take place on Wednesday mornings, providing an ideal opportunity for beginner and experienced birdwatchers to learn about the local avifauna.
The Preserve has been designated as an Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy, the American Birding Association, and the Watchable Wildlife National Program, and is featured in the National Geographic Guide to Bird Watching Sites. Over 247 bird species have been recorded in the Preserve, with at least 72 resident breeding species.
