Palm Desert is ripe with hiking opportunities. Many trails are close by and offer breathtaking panoramic views down into Palm Desert and out across the Coachella Valley to the San Andreas Faultline and north mountains beyond. “The Cross” trail, as it’s known to hikers, is exceptional.
PALM DESERT AND THE BEST HIKING IN THE VALLEY
The Cross is especially cool for several reasons. One is that you can bring your dog… some of Palm Desert’s other trails don’t allow them. Horses and Bikes are allowed, but it’s rare to cross paths with them. The trail is steep, gaining over 600 feet in elevation before reaching the large metal Cross (lighted at night) located on a promontory. Once there, you can look down into Stone Eagle Golf Course with its emerald green manicured fairways… a striking juxtaposition to the adjacent rocky landscape. And you just might happen upon Bighorn Sheep, as the area serves as their native habitat.
The hike to The Cross takes about an hour, depending on the shape you’re in and your preferable pace. You can run up and down the mountain like the local high school track team does… or take your time by stopping to take in views, catch your breath and drink water. Though the hike is relatively short, make sure you stay adequately hydrated, especially if you aren’t acclimated to the desert environment. A water fountain and shaded palapa are located about a quarter of the way up.
To get to The Cross from Highway 111, go South on Highway 74, crossing El Paseo and head uphill for about a mile. Turn right on Thrush St. located at the upper edge of Indian Creek condos. Follow Thrush through the condo complex until you cross a small bridge over the wash, then turn right. You can park anywhere on the left side of the road and trailhead is clearly marked from there.
Hikers from all ends of the Coachella Valley come to hike The Cross trail in Palm Desert. Make it your early morning workout before work while still cool… or hike after work to relieve stress from your day. Some even hike the trail during lunch hour. Regardless of when you hike it, The Cross is a trail you won’t want to miss!