The Mission Creek Preserve trails lead to the Pacific Crest Trail, which sits four miles from the trailhead parking area. This is a spot where your dog needs to stay on leash—the preserve hosts deer, bear, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions, so it’s important to keep control at all times. The landscape changes dramatically depending on the season; if you visit after a wet winter, you’ll see spectacular wildflower displays covering the hillsides.

The main draw here is the ability to hike from Mission Creek Preserve all the way to the Whitewater Preserve if you’re up for a serious day out. That’s eight miles each way using the Mission Creek and Pacific Crest Trails combined, so plan accordingly with plenty of water for both you and your dog. The terrain can be rocky in stretches, and shade is limited, so early morning hikes work best during warmer months.

Four stone casitas have been converted into shade structures scattered throughout the preserve, which gives you decent spots to rest and have a picnic if you need a break. The Mission Creek Stonehouse sits in the wetlands area and is worth seeking out—it’s an interesting piece of history tucked into the landscape.

Getting there is straightforward if you’re coming from Palm Springs or the I-10 corridor. Head west on Highway 62 and then take Mission Creek Road. The trailhead is five and a half miles north of Interstate 10. You’ll find parking at the lot outside the locked access gate on Mission Creek Road, and you can use it without needing prior authorization. There’s no fee to park or hike, which makes this a solid option for a longer day trip when you want to get some real miles in with your dog without the usual desert crowds.