Salton Sea-Desert Day Trip from Palm Springs
There is something both desolate and beautiful about The Salton Sea in California.
It was formed in the early 1900s when a dam broke and the Colorado River flooded the Imperial Valley with water for the next year and a half.
By the time engineers were able to stop it, the Salton Sea was formed at 45 miles long and 20 miles wide.
Although it’s shrunk since that time, the Salton Sea remains one of the world's largest inland seas. It’s a very important wetland with the highest level of bird biodiversity in the region (some say country!) At 227 feet below sea level it’s also one of the lowest places on earth. Definitely worth a visit and only a short drive from Palm Springs and The Desert Shack.
The Salton Sea Visitor Center is a good place to start where you can get information and details on the area to see what interests you most. There are guided tours available or you may want to explore Bombay Beach, Mecca and Thermal on your own. The Salton Sea Recreation Area on the northeastern side is about 14 miles of shoreline and a popular place for campers, boaters and fisherman.
From the visitors center and campground area there are a few short, easy walks you can enjoy including the beach trail and the Ironwood Nature Trail. The best time to visit the Salton Sea is October through April when the temperature is milder. Summer temperatures soar to over 100 degrees and there is not much shade.
For those wanting a more challenging hike, check out nearby Ladders Canyon Loop and Ropes Canyon Trail. There is also the San Andreas Oasis, (search Dos Palmas Oasis in Google Maps). A dirt road but you’re rewarded with a stunning palm oasis for your efforts.
There is plenty to do and see at The Salton Sea! I hope you get out there soon!
Desert Hikes In or Near Palm Springs & The Desert Shack
Hiking in Palm Springs can lead you to a desert oasis with waterfalls, palms and ancient rock art
Are you ready to lose yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the California desert? Let’s get straight into some of the most scenic hikes that our area has to offer. They are all near The Desert Shack and Palm Springs!
Whitewater Preserve Photo: Jack Thompson
First on this hiking wrapup is an undervalued gem of a trail — Whitewater Preserve. Encompassing 2,851 acres with easy to moderate level trails, Whitewater Preserve is open daily and is free to the public. From the crystal clear waters that wind down the mountainside forming the river, to amazing wildlife and desert flowers, Whitewater is a true desert oasis. Whitewater Preserve guarantees a beautiful hike with panoramic views and is the perfect spot to take in the ever-changing beauty of the desert and mountains no matter the season! Always check with Ranger Station for trail closures.
Tahquitz Canyon Trail photo: Beth Slevcove
Iconic Tahquitz Canyon Trail is only 15-20 minutes from The Desert Shack near downtown Palm Springs. This trail has stunning views of cascading waterfalls, ancient rock art and lush vegetation that makes it hard to believe you’re in the desert. There is a 2-mile loop that takes about an hour and is considered moderately challenging to strenuous. No animals are allowed and there is a $15 entrance fee. Visit the website for more information on Ranger-led interpretive hikes.
Another popular trail is the Murray Canyon Trail which ends at the Seven Sisters Waterfall. Nearly 5 miles of moderate hiking, there are a couple options for making your way back. Check the website for helpful suggestions and the best way to wind your way back through Andreas Canyon to take in the world’s second largest California Fan Palm oasis. Enjoy spectacular views of rock formations, cottonwoods, willows, and the stunning desert oasis.
This is just a start on all the wonderful walks, trails and hikes we have near The Desert Shack!
Always observe animals from a distance
Leave the park as you found it
Remove anything you bring into the park - including any and all trash
Take pictures only—Do not remove any animals, plants or rocks
Leave No Trace