Tahquitz Falls via Tahquitz Canyon Trail

based on 63 tracks & routes #3 hike out of 79 in
1.8 mi
Distance
53 min
Time
terrain
339 ft
Elev Gain

Overview

This is a short, easy, and scenic hike to Tahquitz Falls in Palm Springs, but be sure to check on fees, hours, and requirements. The trail climbs gently through a rocky desert canyon, with interpretive signs (brochure at the entrance station) about the culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, then drops to a shaded grotto where a 60-foot waterfall pours into a clear pool. It’s well-maintained and family-friendly, but can be hot and exposed on warm days. Go early, bring water, and take your time at the falls — that cool mist is the payoff.

The entrance fee is $15. Entrance allowed from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, all hikers off the trail by 5:00 pm. Each hiker must carry one quart of water, available for purchase at the entrance station. Verify hours, fees, and requirements online. Ranger-led interpretive hikes may be offered.

Getting Started

West Mesquite Avenue leads to and dead ends at the trailhead. Bathrooms, a gift shop, and a small museum are at the entrance station.

Taking Children

Great hike for children. Be vigilant near the narrow sections of the trail above the creek.


Sights to See


    Rate this Hike

    user_profile
    7 years ago
    Great short hike along a flowing river that ends at an amazing waterfall.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    7 years, 2 months ago
    Nice easy hike with a great stop at the midpoint to see the waterfall and cool off a bit in the cool water. Enjoyed it a lot but it costed $12.50 per person, which I think is a little steep.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    7 years, 4 months ago
    The trail was very nice, although one leg of the upstream part of the trail was washed out, so there was no loop. This made for a rather crowded hike, with tons of tourists trooping back and forth. We were treated to pretty close views of a bighorn ram, who posed atop a rock and clambered around the rocks for our benefit. The waterfall was very nice, although the big cottonwood tree next to the plunge pool blocked views for good photography. I would rate this a 5 except for the hordes hiking the trail, which detracted from the experience.
    ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    3 months, 2 weeks ago
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    2 years, 10 months ago

    user_profile
    3 years, 6 months ago

    user_profile
    3 years, 9 months ago
    ★ ★

    user_profile
    5 years, 2 months ago
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    6 years, 11 months ago
    ★ ★ ★


Public Tracks

user_profile
Tom Valenti 6 years, 5 months ago
Tahquitz Canyon Trail 2020-02-02
Had a nice leisurely stroll up and back down the canyon to see Tahquitz Falls and even saw a young bighorn sheep in the distance. This is a nice hike to do if you have some free time in Palm Springs.
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