The Homestead Trail, also known as The Cross Hike, is a moderate three-mile hike up to the Palm Desert Cross with beautiful views of Coachella Valley. Located within the picturesque 27-acre Cap Homme/Ralph Adams Park, this is a solid choice for a workout with your dog in Greater Palm Springs.

The trail itself climbs steadily through completely exposed terrain, so bring plenty of water for both of you—the sun here is relentless, especially in warmer months. The inclines are challenging enough to keep things interesting, and most dogs seem to enjoy the steady push uphill. Your reward at the summit is a genuine panoramic view across the valley and that iconic white cross visible from much of Palm Desert. On clear days, you can see across the Coachella Valley in multiple directions.

What makes this trail particularly appealing is that it works for different energy levels. If you’re not up for the full three miles, the base of the park itself offers plenty of space to walk around with your dog on leash. There are open areas good for letting your dog get some sniffing in and burn off energy before or after the hike.

The trail has gained a real following for sunset and nighttime hikes, when the lights of the desert communities spread out below create a different kind of view. It’s a popular enough route that you’ll typically see other hikers and dogs, which is reassuring if you’re tackling it after dark.

Head out early in the day during warmer months to avoid the peak heat. Even though the trail is well-used and clearly marked, water is your main concern—there’s no shade on the route itself, and the exposure is real. The park entrance is straightforward to find in Palm Desert, and parking is available at the base.