Palm Canyon: A Desert Oasis
Discover the world's largest California fan palm oasis, a natural wonder and ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Palm Canyon, located within the Indian Canyons near Palm Springs, California, is a stunning natural oasis and the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. This lush canyon is home to the world's largest naturally occurring grove of Washingtonia filifera, the native California fan palm, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history.
A brief summary to Palm Canyon
- Palm Springs, California, 92264, US
- +1760-323-6018
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the hotter months, as the desert climate can be very dehydrating.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain.
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Check the Indian Canyons website for seasonal hours and possible closures.
- Consider joining a ranger-led hike to learn more about the history, culture, and ecology of the canyon.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Palm Springs, head south on S Palm Canyon Drive. Continue on S Palm Canyon Drive until you reach the Indian Canyons Toll Gate. Purchase your day-use tickets at the toll gate. Continue driving into the canyon to reach the Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially on weekends. The entrance fee is $12 for adults, $7 for seniors (62+) and students (with ID), and $6 for children (ages 6-12).
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Public Transport
The Palm Springs Buzz provides transportation along Palm Canyon Drive, but does not directly access the Indian Canyons. From the last Buzz stop, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is required to complete the journey to the Indian Canyons Toll Gate. Confirm that your driver displays company stickers. A short taxi/rideshare from downtown Palm Springs will cost approximately $15-$25, plus the entrance fee of $12 for adults, $7 for seniors (62+) and students (with ID), and $6 for children (ages 6-12).
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Walking
While it is technically possible to walk from downtown Palm Springs to Palm Canyon, it is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 5 miles) and lack of shade along S Palm Canyon Drive. If you choose to walk, be prepared for a long trek in the desert heat and ensure you have adequate water and sun protection. Upon reaching the Indian Canyons Toll Gate, you will need to pay the entrance fee of $12 for adults, $7 for seniors (62+) and students (with ID), and $6 for children (ages 6-12).
