The Living Desert in Palm Desert; Coachella Valley Treasure. Absolutely, one of the BEST “Things to Do” here in the Coachella Valley, The Living Desert, is also a great source of pride amongst Locals. The entry with it’s beautiful Lion sculptures, only hints at the wonderful day, or night, ahead for you, your family, friends or our Seasonal visitors. Located off of Portola in South Palm Desert, The Living Desert is what it’s name implies..a Living world you won’t find anywhere else in our Desert Valley.
The Living Desert was established in 1970 by several trustees of the Palm Springs Desert Museum, who foresaw the impact development would have on our local desert ecosystem. They saw the future of Palm Desert, and our Coachella Valley, and have created an interactive, Living preserve. Of the 1200 acres encompassing the Living Desert, 1000 acres remain in their natural state. In 1972, an admin building, gift shop/theatre were dedicated, and the Preserve received it’s very first animal; a kit fox. Trailside exhibits and nature walks, a bighorn sheep enclosure, and small animal exhibits including owls, lizards, tortoises kept being added. A walk through Aviary for native bird species was added in 1979, and an animal care and vet care center were also completed.
South Palm Desert is well known for it’s spectacular selection of boutiques and restaurants on El Paseo, as well as it’s many housing options. Golf course developments such as Ironwood Golf Club, The Reserve, and the historic Marrakesh Country Club, are right next to the Living Desert, and homes in non-golf course communities are plentiful and affordable. Single family homes, dating from the 50’s to new custom homes are available just above El Paseo starting at approx. $300,000.
The Living Desert continues to flourish, with it’s endangered species education, youth programs, and the chance for visitors to interact with birds, and wild life, and just become more educated about our amazing desert animals and plants. If you’re visiting our beautiful Coachella Valley for the winter, be sure to visit the Living Desert. Looking for a home? Give me a call at 760-285-3578 to set up a tour.