From Trail to Tee: Exploring Greater Palm Springs’s Outdoors through Hiking and Golfing

There is no shortage of ways to explore the stunning, diverse nature experiences in Greater Palm Springs, from scenic hiking trails to world-class golf courses set against breathtaking mountain backdrops. Immerse in the desert region’s natural beauty through hiking and golfing, offering a great mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s the luxury of time well spent, reconnecting with nature in landscapes as vivid and varied as the experiences themselves.

Hiking

Greater Palm Springs offers more than 100 trails to explore the area at your own pace. Hiking allows you to mix fitness with up-close discoveries of the most beautiful areas of the oasis across a stunning landscape featuring desert, mountains, and palm trees, for the ultimate adventure with distinct local flavour.

Andreas Canyon Trail at Indian Canyons

The Andreas Canyon Trail offers one of the most unique and scenic hiking experiences in the region. This two-mile loop trail, located within the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians’ historic Indian Canyons, is ideal for hikers seeking both beauty and cultural significance. As part of the 60 miles of hiking trails in Indian Canyons, the Andreas Canyon Trail follows a gentle stream that nourishes lush vegetation, which starkly contrasts the texture of the canyon’s rocky routing.  

Joshua Tree National Park

Stretching across 1,250 square miles, Joshua Tree National Park offers a sweeping mix of hiking, rock climbing, and camping adventures, making it one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Southern California and beyond. For those looking for leisurely hikes with a touch of challenge, try the three-mile 49 Palms Oasis Trail or the four-mile Lost Horse Mine & Mountain Trail, both rated Moderately Strenuous by the National Park Service. With iconic views, unique rock formations, and endless opportunities to connect with nature, Joshua Tree is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park

Just six miles from Old Town La Quinta, the Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park offers a stunning outdoor escape. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and water-based recreation, including shore fishing and kayaking. With easy access, ample parking, and stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Lake Cahuilla is a go-to destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventure and a serene environment.

Golfing

Greater Palm Springs is home to over 100 golf courses, making it one of the premier golf destinations in the country. Here, courses range from public to private clubs and resort-style golf experiences.

Indian Wells Golf Resort

Indian Wells Golf Resort offers two championship courses with stunning vistas and top-tier amenities, making it a favourite among both casual and competitive players. Often called “America’s Friendliest Golf Resort”, Indian Wells Golf Resort offers the ideal grounds with excellent hospitality services for golfing amateurs. Their welcoming vibe, abundance of golf courses, high-quality golfing experience with scenic views and premium facilities make it one of the best in Greater Palm Springs. Another highlight at the resort is Shots in the Night, a glowing after-dark golf experience that transforms the range with illuminated targets, neon glow balls, laser putting, and more, offering a fun and playful activity for families, kids, and adults.

PGA West Resort & Club
Surrounded by mountains and bathed in sunshine, PGA WEST in La Quinta boasts nine of the most iconic courses in the world, designed by legends Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Weiskopf. Five of these championship courses are available for public play, making The Western Home of Golf in America the ultimate bucket list golf destination. Along with the spectacular terrain and panoramic views, all courses offer amazing playing experiences for golfers of all levels and abilities. Off the course, golfers looking to improve their game will want to book a lesson at PGA WEST Golf Academy, a premier teaching facility known for its team of nationally ranked, award-winning instructors and golf evaluation technologies.

The Lights at Indio Golf Course

Offering one of the longest par 3 courses in the country, ranging from 120 to 240 yards and approximately 46 acres, measuring 3,004 yards in length with a lake located between the 9^th hole and 18^th holes, a driving range and practice putting green, parking lot, a combined clubhouse and pro shop, Indio Golf Course is a top choice among golfers.  Moreover, The Lights at Indio Golf Course is the only night-illuminated golf course in the Coachella Valley. For beginners or experts, Indio offers a welcoming and relaxed environment to experience the sport in Greater Palm Springs’ outdoors. The courses provide the perfect setting to learn and refine your swing techniques, that too in the backdrop of stunning views.