5 Thrilling Outdoor Adventure Activities For Adults In Palm Springs Coachella Valley
The Palm Springs Coachella Valley area of California is well-known for its hot springs, luxury resorts and world-class golf courses. But beyond the spas and fairways lies a rugged desert landscape that’s ideal for outdoor adventure. From rock climbing to ziplining, there are plenty of exciting activities for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. Here are 5 of the best outdoor adventures for adults in Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley.
1.Covered Wagon Tours
For a unique perspective of Palm Springs, hop on a Covered wagon tour. Covered Wagon Tours offer a scenic ride in a covered wagon led by draft mules. On the tour, you’ll journey into the Sonoran Desert, taking in spectacular valley views along the way. Their guide and wagon driver will entertain and provide interesting details on the plant life, wildlife, Native American and Pioneer History, and the beautiful and scenic geology of the San Andreas Fault. Covered wagon rides are a great way to experience the desert similar to how our founding pioneers once did and they offer a one-of-a-kind family or travel experience that everyone will remember. Covered Wagon Tours in Palm Springs, California offers a variety of tours that include mule-drawn covered wagons, entertainment, and BBQ.
Scenic tours: Take in the scenery with a scenic tour, live music, and games.
Open-air wagons: Ride in an open-air wagon and experience the Sonoran Desert and enjoy the beauty of the desert just as the pioneers did.
San Andreas Fault oases: Visit the oases of the San Andreas Fault and learn more about the natural history on this unique tour with our Crew.
Sunset views: See the sunset views and enjoy firepits. Check out our gallery!
Covered Wagon Tours is a hidden gem with an educational team. Others say that the cowboy dinner and western entertainment are a nice change of pace. Continue the fun, with a line dance and old-fashioned partner dance, known as, “The Barn Dance”! This is a favorite amongst their guests! If you suffer with two left feet, and dance is not for You, then try your luck at a game of horseshoes, cornhole, or cowboy-style roping.
2. Hiking in Indian Canyons
Just minutes from downtown Palm Springs lies one of the area’s best hiking destinations – the Indian Canyons. Operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, this trail system winds through three different canyons – Murray, Palm and Andreas. The 6-mile Palm Canyon Trail passes through a spectacular oasis lined with California fan palms, while the Murray Canyon trail leads to an impressive 25 foot waterfall. You’ll also find ancient native american rock art and mortar holes used for grinding acorns. With over 15 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, Indian Canyons has something for hikers of all levels.
3. Rock Climbing at Joshua Tree
The iconic Joshua trees and towering rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park offer prime rock climbing. There are over 8,000 established routes, ranging from beginner to advanced. Jumbo Rocks is a popular area with easy top-roping routes, while the Wonderland of Rocks is ideal for multi-pitch trad climbing. While you can boulder and climb without guides, taking a guided rock climbing adventure is recommended for safety and to learn proper techniques. Outfitters like Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School offer private and group lessons. You’ll get outfitted with gear and scale these unique desert rocks under the guidance of expert climbers.
4.Mountain Biking in Palm Springs
While the desert landscape may seem too barren for mountain biking, Palm Springs has several excellent trails. One of the most popular is the South Lykken Trail, located just south of downtown. This intermediate 5.8 mile loop offers beautiful views of the San Jacinto mountains as you ride through washes and over small hills. For a more challenging ride, head to the Art Smith Trail, which ascends nearly 1,200 feet through steep switchbacks. Guided mountain bike tours are also available through companies like Adventure Hikes & Bikes, which include bike rentals and transportation.
5. Ziplining & Aerial Adventures
For an adrenaline rush, try zipping over the Palm Springs desert on an aerial adventure course. At the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Adventure Center, you can soar on five zip lines ranging from 140 to 1,800 feet long. Or test your balance on obstacles like rope bridges and log rolls on the challenging Wild Play Aerial Adventure course. Another option is the San Jacinto Ziplines Aerial Adventure tour located near Idyllwild, which features ziplines over beautiful forest scenery. Combining zip lines with rope challenges and hiking, these courses offer hours of heart-pumping fun.
Conclusion
Beyond the resorts and golf greens, Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley offer no shortage of outdoor adventures. From rock climbing and mountain biking to aerial adventures and covered wagon tours, this desert landscape is filled with exciting activities for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts alike. So next time you visit Palm Springs, save time between spa treatments to get your heart pumping with these thrilling outdoor pursuits. You’ll create lasting memories while discovering the rugged beauty of the California desert.Unlock your next adventure – Book today and dive into a world of Adventure!
FAQ
1. What will I experience on a covered wagon tour?
On a covered wagon tour, you'll journey into the foothills of the San Jacinto mountains and take in spectacular valley views. You'll get a small taste of what the pioneers experienced traveling across the frontier in a covered wagon.
2. What is the Desert Sunset Tour?
The Desert Sunset Tour is one of the covered wagon tours offered by Desert Adventures. On this tour you'll ride in a covered wagon into the San Jacinto foothills and enjoy beautiful views of the valley during sunset.
3. Is this a good activity for kids
Absolutely! Covered wagon tours are fun for the whole family. Kids will especially enjoy the unique experience of riding in a traditional covered wagon. Just note that children under 4 may not be permitted.
4. What should I wear/bring for the tour?
Wear casual, comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen due to the desert climate. Bring a camera to capture photos of the beautiful scenery to your gallery along the trail.