Tahquitz Canyon: A Sacred Oasis
Discover the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tahquitz Canyon, a sacred oasis in Palm Springs, home to the Agua Caliente people.
Explore the natural beauty and cultural significance of Tahquitz Canyon, a site sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for over 5,000 years. Hike the 1.8-mile loop to Tahquitz Falls, discover ancient rock art, and learn about the legend of Tahquitz, a powerful shaman banished to the canyon.
A brief summary to Agua Caliente Tahquitz Visitor Center
- 500 W Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, California, 92264, US
- +1760-416-7044
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
- Bring at least 32 ounces of water per person, and consider a hiking backpack for extra water and sun protection.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, as the trail has limited shade.
- Check the seasonal operating hours, as the canyon is only open on weekends from July 5th to the end of September.
- Visit the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center to learn about the canyon's history and the legend of Tahquitz.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Palm Springs, head south on Palm Canyon Drive. Follow the signs to the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center at 500 W Mesquite Ave. Parking is available at the visitor center, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a space. If the parking lot is full, there may be other parking areas nearby. Parking is free. From the Movie Colony Hotel in Palm Springs, it's about a ten-minute drive to Tahquitz Canyon.
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Public Transport
Sunline buses provide service in the Palm Springs area. Check the Sunline website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to determine the closest stop to the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or take a short ride-share to reach the visitor center. A single ride on Sunline costs $1.
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Walking
From the Palm Springs Visitor Center at 2901 N. Palm Canyon, it is approximately 2.5 miles to the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center. Head south on Palm Canyon Drive, then turn west onto W Mesquite Ave. Continue on Mesquite Ave until you reach the visitor center at 500 W Mesquite Ave. The walk takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Discover more about Agua Caliente Tahquitz Visitor Center
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