South Lykken Trailhead, San Diego County Travel Guide

4.8 (188)

Hike the South Lykken Trail for panoramic Palm Springs views, desert scenery, and a moderate workout in the heart of the Coachella Valley.

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South Lykken Trailhead

Escape into the rugged beauty of the desert at the South Lykken Trailhead, offering panoramic views of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. This popular hiking spot provides a moderate to strenuous workout with rewarding vistas and the chance to spot local wildlife.

A brief summary to South Lykken Trailhead

S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, California, 92264, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring South Lykken Trailhead.

Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the desert heat, especially during summer.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there is limited shade on the trail.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the rocky terrain.
Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and other wildlife, but maintain a safe distance and do not disturb them.

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Mountain Sunrise Hike and Meditation in Palm Springs

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Getting There

Walking

From downtown Palm Springs, walk south on S Palm Canyon Drive. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles until you pass the last of the houses on the right. The trailhead is located on the right side of the road, just beyond the residential area. Look for signs indicating the start of the South Lykken Trail.
Public Transport

Take SunLine bus Route 1 or 4 towards the south end of Palm Canyon Drive. Check the SunLine Transit Agency schedule for the most up-to-date timings. Get off the bus near the intersection of S Palm Canyon Drive and Murray Canyon Drive. From there, walk south along S Palm Canyon Drive until you reach the trailhead on the right, just past the last houses. A single ride on SunLine costs $1 for adults.
Taxi/Ride-share

From downtown Palm Springs, a taxi or ride-share to the South Lykken Trailhead will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a one-way trip. Taxi and ride-sharing services are readily available in Palm Springs.

Discover more about South Lykken Trailhead

The South Lykken Trailhead beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its promise of stunning desert scenery and invigorating hikes. Named in honor of Carl Lykken, Palm Springs' first postmaster and a lover of the outdoors, the trail offers a 4.4-mile (7.1 km) journey through the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains.Starting from either the north or south trailhead, hikers are treated to a moderately challenging climb with an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters). The trail's switchbacks wind through rocky terrain, rewarding those who persevere with breathtaking views of Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley, and the distant mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including bighorn sheep, lizards, and various cacti.The trail's moderate difficulty makes it accessible to a range of hikers, though sturdy footwear and plenty of water are recommended, especially during the hotter months. The best time to hike is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Remember to bring sun protection, as there is little to no shade on the trail.Whether you're seeking a challenging workout or a peaceful escape into nature, the South Lykken Trailhead offers an unforgettable Palm Springs experience.