Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center
Art Smith Trailhead: A Desert Hiking Escape
Hike the Art Smith Trail for panoramic Coachella Valley views, challenging climbs, and a glimpse of desert wildlife in the Santa Rosa Mountains.
The Art Smith Trailhead provides access to a strenuous but rewarding hike through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. Named after Art Smith, a key figure in local trail development, the trail offers stunning views, diverse desert flora, and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Art Smith Trailhead
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Art Smith Trailhead
Getting There
Driving
From Highway 111, travel south on Highway 74 for approximately 4 miles. The parking lot for the Art Smith Trailhead is located on the right-hand side, just past the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center. If the primary lot is full, overflow parking is available along Highway 74, but use caution.
Walking
From the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, walk past the building to the Art Smith Trailhead parking area. The trailhead is located at the far end of the parking lot. Follow the signs for the Art Smith Trail.
Local tips
✓
Bring at least 3 liters of water, especially during warmer months, as there is no water available on the trail.
✓
Wear sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, as there is very little shade.
✓
Start your hike early in the day to avoid the heat and direct sunlight.
✓
Keep an eye out for Peninsular Desert Bighorn Sheep, but maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
Discover more about Art Smith Trailhead
The Art Smith Trailhead marks the beginning of an immersive journey into the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. Named in honor of Art Smith, the longtime trail boss of the Desert Riders equestrian club, this trail showcases the rugged beauty of the Coachella Valley. Smith was instrumental in building and preserving trails in the Palm Desert area, adapting many from native Cahuilla footways.
The trail itself is a strenuous 8.3-mile hike, climbing over 1,400 feet and offering panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the Little San Bernardino Mountains, and Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers will find themselves surrounded by beige-gray hills, dramatic rock formations, and lush palm oases, a welcome contrast to the urban sprawl below. The well-maintained path winds through hidden canyons and across sandy washes, providing a sense of solitude and escape. Keep an eye out for Peninsular Desert Bighorn Sheep, known to frequent the area.
While the full trail extends to Dunn Road, hikers can customize their experience with shorter loops or connecting trails like Hopalong Cassidy Trail. Be prepared for a challenging climb with steep switchbacks, and remember to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there is no shade on the trail.
A brief summary to Art Smith Trailhead
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Palm Desert
Discover Palm Desert, California: A vibrant blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
Tell me more about Palm Desert