The bees are back at the Mecca Hills Painted Canyon Ladder Canyon Hike
The City of Palm Springs no longer allows pets on four of its popular hiking trails to preserve the native species living in the desert mountains.
In 2019 the city enacted the new bans in order to comply with the Coachella Valley Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan, a document that outlines lands where constructions are not allowed, as well as recreational limitations such as hiking with pet dogs.
The trails where dogs are prohibited are:
• The Museum Trail
• South Lykken Trail
• North Lykken Trail
• Araby Trail
Anyone caught with dogs on those trails face fines, the first actual violation after being reminded and educated, and the next one is $250, the following is $500.
Are their dog friendly trails in the Palm Springs area?
While limited, there are some trails in the area where you can take your dog. The information below comes from the Greater Palm Springs website:
Mission Creek Preserve
One of the more popular spots for four-legged hikers, Mission Creek Preserve offers more than 17 miles of dog-friendly trails through stunning desert scenery. Far removed from the bustle of modern life, Mission Creek Preserve lets you see the Coachella Valley’s natural side. Walk along sandy trails, see local wildlife like rabbits and roadrunners and get the perfect vacation photos in front of the historic stone buildings found throughout the preserve. Mission Creek’s namesake stream also flows all year long, so Fido can easily keep cool during your adventure.
Whitewater Canyon Loop Trail
Scenic trails and sparse traffic make the Whitewater Canyon Loop Trail a great pick for a dog-friendly hike with beautiful views of the oasis. See the beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains and desert canyons on this 3.5-mile trail, where Whitewater River not only keeps the area lush but also lets you cool off with a quick splash. Take your dog up the 600-foot climb to take in some of the best views of the surrounding mountainsides.
Homestead Trail (The Cross Hike)
For a good workout for both you and your pup, don’t miss the Homestead Trail (also known as “The Cross Hike” to locals) in Palm Desert. Tucked inside the 27-acre Cap Homme/Ralph Adams Park, Homestead Trail is a favorite for dog- friendly hiking in Greater Palm Springs. The inclines keep dogs and their humans challenged, but the panoramic views at the top of the trail are worth it. The trail is especially popular for nighttime hiking, as you’ll get to see the Coachella Valley light up under starry skies. Even if you decide not to hike up the trail, the expansive park area at the base of the mountain offers plenty of room for dogs to sniff and explore (on leash).
La Quinta Cove Oasis
Discover the natural beauty of La Quinta at the Cove Oasis trail network, tucked away at the top of the La Quinta Cove. Two short, flat trails take you and your four-legged hiking buddy from the parking lot to the Cove Oasis, making this one of the easier options for a quick jaunt into the desert’s beauty. Dogs are also welcome to join you on the trail between the Boo Hoff and Bear Creek trailheads but cannot go past these landmarks. Leashes are a must when exploring La Quinta Cove Oasis.
Do you know of any other dog-friendly trails?
Since I cannot have a dog, my knowledge of dog-friendly trails is limited. If you know of any other trails in the area where you are positive dogs are allowed please email me and let me know.
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