The Greater Palm Springs area is packed with dog-friendly trails that show off the desert’s rugged beauty. Pack water, grab treats, and get ready to hit the trail with your pup. We’ve put together a guide to some of the best dog-friendly hikes in Greater Palm Springs, where scenic views and new scents are around every bend.
The Homme/Adams Park Loop offers a close-up view of the mountains, and the best part? Your pup can enjoy an off-leash area at the base of the hills! The loop is relatively flat and easy, making it a great warm-up for the day or a solid choice if your dog prefers a mellow outing.
If you’re up for a workout, the Homestead Trail (aka Cross Hike) delivers with challenging inclines and panoramic views of the Coachella Valley — don’t forget to snap a pic of your pup at the top! The trail gains about 1,000 feet of elevation, so bring extra water and plan for an early start before the desert heat kicks in.
Mission Creek Preserve offers more than 17 miles of dog-friendly trails through pristine desert wilderness. Located between the Sonoran and Mojave deserts, this preserve is a quieter alternative to the more popular trails and gives your dog plenty of room to explore on leash. The creek bed adds variety to the landscape, and you may spot roadrunners, jackrabbits, and other desert wildlife along the way.
A few desert hiking tips: always carry more water than you think you’ll need (for both you and your dog), check trail surfaces before heading out since sand and rock can heat up fast, and stick to morning hikes when temperatures are cooler. Dog booties can protect paws from hot ground and sharp rocks. With the right prep, these trails are some of the most rewarding hikes you and your dog can share in Southern California.
