Painted Canyon Trailhead: A Geological Wonderland
Hike through a vibrant, geological wonderland in the Mecca Hills Wilderness, where the earth's history is painted across the canyon walls.
Explore the colorful and dramatic landscape of Painted Canyon, a unique geological formation in the Mecca Hills Wilderness. Hike through narrow canyons, scale ladders, and witness the power of the San Andreas Fault in this must-see desert adventure.
A brief summary to Painted Canyon Trailhead
- Painted Canyon Rd, Mecca, California, 92254, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Hike during the cooler months (October-April) to avoid extreme heat.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to navigate Painted Canyon Road, but regular cars can make it depending on conditions.
- Download a hiking app with a map of the trail, as signage can be limited.
- Be aware of flash flood warnings, especially during monsoon season.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 111 in Mecca, turn onto 66th Avenue, which becomes Box Canyon Road. Turn left onto Painted Canyon Road, a dirt road leading to the trailhead. The trailhead is approximately 4.7 miles down Painted Canyon Road. Be prepared for a bumpy ride, as the road can be washboarded and sandy. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, but not always necessary depending on current conditions. Parking is available at the trailhead. There are no fees to access the Painted Canyon Trailhead.
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Public Transport
From Coachella, take the SunLine route 8 bus to Mecca. Get off at the stop at Lincoln & 7th in Mecca. From there, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to Painted Canyon Road, and then continue another 4.7 miles down a dirt road to the trailhead. Keep in mind that cell service may be spotty, so it's best to arrange a ride in advance. Taxi/rideshare to the trailhead will likely cost between $20-$40.
Discover more about Painted Canyon Trailhead
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Unmissable attractions to see
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