Desert View Trail: A Short High-Altitude Hike Above the Coachella Valley
Desert View Trail is a short, scenic hike that begins at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering sweeping views from the alpine forests of Mount San Jacinto down to the Coachella Valley thousands of feet below. Starting in Long Valley at over 8,500 feet in elevation, the trail descends gently through pine forest to a dramatic overlook where the landscape shifts abruptly from mountain wilderness to desert basin. It’s an accessible introduction to high-country hiking with one of the biggest view-to-effort payoffs in Southern California.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Length | ~1.5–1.8 miles round trip |
| Time | ~1–1.5 hours |
| Elevation Gain/Loss | ~300–400 feet |
| Best Season | Late spring through fall |
| Location | Long Valley, Mount San Jacinto State Park |
Getting to the Trailhead
Access to Desert View Trail begins by riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which climbs from the desert floor to Long Valley in about 10 minutes. From the Mountain Station, follow signs through Long Valley toward the Desert View Trailhead. The trail is well signed and begins near the main network of paths radiating from the ranger station area.
Tram tickets are required, and operating hours vary seasonally.
Trail Overview
From Long Valley, Desert View Trail heads south through a shaded forest of pine and fir before gradually descending toward the edge of the mountain. The trail is well maintained and relatively gentle, making it suitable for most hikers, including families and visitors new to hiking at elevation.
As the trail approaches its endpoint, trees thin out and the terrain opens dramatically. The final overlook provides expansive views across Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley, and surrounding desert ranges, with elevation dropping sharply from alpine forest to arid desert floor below. On clear days, visibility can extend for dozens of miles.
The trail ends at the viewpoint, where most hikers turn around and retrace their steps back to Long Valley.
Environment & Conditions
One of the defining features of Desert View Trail is the stark contrast between climate zones. While temperatures in Palm Springs may exceed 100°F, Long Valley is often 30–40 degrees cooler. Even in summer, hikers should be prepared for cooler temperatures, wind, and sudden weather changes.
At elevation, afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly during monsoon season, and winter conditions may include snow or ice. Wildlife sightings may include birds, squirrels, and occasional deer, along with seasonal wildflowers in late spring and early summer.
Nearby Hiking Options
Desert View Trail connects easily with other trails in Mount San Jacinto State Park, including longer routes deeper into the high country. Many visitors combine this hike with a short walk around Long Valley or use it as an acclimation hike before tackling more strenuous trails in the area.
