Cactus Spring Trail – Santa Rosa Mountains
Cactus Spring Trail is an approximately 11 mile one-way trek in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, descending through rugged high-desert terrain from Pinyon Flat down to a hidden spring.
Its moderate difficulty is due to the steady drop of nearly 2.5 miles to Horsethief Creek, followed by another 2 miles to Cactus Spring, making it a rewarding out-and-back hike for those looking to explore desert canyons and discover a remote water source. Located off Highway 74, east of Palm Desert, this trail immerses hikers in the natural beauty of the high desert with expansive views and a touch of wilderness solitude.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out-and-back (can continue for a 15-mile thru-hike to Martinez Canyon) |
| Difficulty | Strenous |
| Length | ~9 miles out-and-back (4.5 miles each way to the spring) |
| Time | 4-5 hours |
| Elevation Gain/Loss | 2,639 feet |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 33.579941, -116.450428 |
| Location | Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument |
| Season | Fall through spring recommended |
| Information Number | 1-760-862-9984 |
Getting to Cactus Spring Trailhead
From Palm Desert, head east on Highway 74 (the Palm to Pines Highway) toward Pinyon Flats Campground. The trailhead parking area is located on the south side of the highway, across from Pinyon Flats Campground, just before the Riverside County Transfer Station.
Look for signs for both Cactus Spring Trail and Sawmill Trail. If you’re driving from the Inland Empire, connect to Highway 74 from Interstate 10 by exiting at Monterey Avenue and following Route 74 south into the mountains. Travel through the scenic winding road until you reach Pinyon Flat; the parking area will be on your right.
The Trail
Starting at about 4,000 feet above sea level, the trail begins near the east end of the parking lot, marked by a sign for the Cactus Spring Trail. You’ll soon see a sign-in box for the Santa Rosa Wilderness; be sure to register here, as this serves as your required Wilderness permit.
The first segment quickly introduces you to high-desert flora such as pinyon pines and desert shrubs. As you descend about 2.5 miles, the trail leads to Horsethief Creek, a scenic watercourse lined with vibrant desert plants. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquil surroundings before continuing onward. The creek normally flows year round while tall shade trees reach skyward between steep canyon walls.
From Horsethief Creek, the trail continues another 2 miles to the namesake spring. This part of the route remains relatively easy to follow, though the terrain can become rockier and more rugged in places.
En route, hikers encounter cactus gardens, pinyon pines, and junipers – and in wet years, profuse spring wildflowers. Look for the abandoned dolomite mine along the way.
The spring itself can be tricky to spot when water is low—keep your eyes open for patches of greener vegetation and damp soil. Along the way, you’re likely to encounter typical desert wildlife such as lizards and birds adapted to the arid environment.
For those seeking a longer journey, not far from Cactus Spring, the Guadalupe Trail branches off to La Quinta Cove. Or stay on the main trail to continue roughly 15 more miles beyond Cactus Spring to Martinez Canyon and ultimately Highway 86 in the low desert—though it becomes progressively more challenging to navigate. Most hikers opt to turn around at the spring (or event the creek) for a manageable out-and-back experience.
Camping
Pinyon Flat Campground, situated directly across Highway 74 from the trailhead, offers convenient camping options for those looking to stay overnight in the region. This campground provides basic amenities, and its proximity to the trailhead makes it a popular choice for early morning starts or post-hike relaxation. Be sure to check with the local U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management offices for current conditions, fees, and any fire restrictions before you go.
