Greater Palm Springs stretches across nine cities in the Coachella Valley, from Palm Springs and Cathedral City to La Quinta, Indio and Desert Hot Springs. The region is one of California's most dog-welcoming destinations, with more than 250 dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, trails and parks listed here on DogTrekker.

Mornings are best spent on the trail. The Bump and Grind Loop in Palm Desert delivers panoramic desert views on a well-marked 4-mile route, while Mission Creek Preserve near Desert Hot Springs offers flat, sandy paths through native palm oases. Start early and carry water for both of you — the desert floor heats up fast.

Afternoons shift to patios and pools. Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs is lined with restaurants that welcome dogs at outdoor tables, and the mile-long El Paseo shopping district in Palm Desert has water bowls set out along the sidewalk. Several resorts, including La Quinta Resort and The Saguaro, run dedicated pet programs with dog beds, treats at check-in and relief areas on the grounds.

Winter and spring are peak season, when daytime temperatures sit in the 70s and 80s and the surrounding mountains carry snow. Summer visits work if you plan around the heat — early hikes, shaded patios and hotel pools make it manageable.

Explore our Greater Palm Springs partner page for even more dog-friendly ideas.