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Reconnect with Nature in California’s Greater Palm Springs
Written by Luxury Escapes
Reconnect with nature in this breathtaking oasis filled with remarkable scenery, 300 days of sunshine and impressive geological wonders.
Surrounded by striking mountain ranges and boasting palm-studded oases, desert plains and endless blue skies, Greater Palm Springs is a nature lovers’ paradise. Spend your days exploring the iconic parks and valleys on foot or with a hair-raising four-wheeled adventure, or enjoy some peace and quiet with a round of golf or soak in one of the region’s natural mineral springs.
Whatever adventures you embark on, rest assured you will live greater and reconnect with nature on a visit to Greater Palm Springs.
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Explore Joshua Tree National Park
Characterised by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes, Joshua Tree National Park is an icon of Greater Palm Springs. With nearly 800,000 acres of rocky desertscape, waterfalls, boulder formations, vegetation and wildlife, you could spend an eternity exploring this natural wonder. On your first visit to Joshua Tree, must-do activities include hiking along Arch Rock and Hidden Valley Trails, visiting the aptly named Skull Rock, and driving to Keys View to experience panoramic views of Coachella Valley.
Join a desert adventure with Red Jeep Tours
Get up close and personal with the Coachella Valley on a four wheel drive back-country adventure. From the comfort of an open-air Jeep, you will experience sheer canyon walls, lunar-like landscapes, scenic vistas and abundant desert flora while learning about local agriculture, history and geology from your knowledgeable guide. Once you reach your destination, choose from several amazing hikes and marvel at the powerful forces of nature that created this spectacular landscape.
Discover epic hiking trails
Hiking enthusiasts will love exploring the natural wonders of Greater Palm Springs on foot. With more than 100 trails to choose from, there is something for every ability. For a relaxed walk through pristine desertscape, red rock formations and oasis-like vegetation, you won’t want to miss the Andreas Canyon Trail. Experienced hikers can embark on the more challenging Murray Canyon Trail at Indian Canyons, which leads through shady palm oases, rocky terrain and open desert plains.
Relax at a mineral water day spa
Discover the healing power of water at one of Greater Palm Springs natural mineral water spas. Indulge in a holistic treatment at Miracle Springs Resort & Spa, a desert resort offering eight natural mineral pools and spectacular views of the Coachella Valley or visit adults-only Two Bunch Palms to experience the transformative power of a 600-year-old natural spring. For a complete wellness experience, Sagewater Spa offers a natural hot spring-fed pool and hot tub to enjoy between massages and yoga classes.
Make big swings on the golf green
A visit to Greater Palm Springs or ‘The Golf Capital of the West’ isn’t complete without a round of golf. If you’re new to the game, a visit to The Golf Center at Palm Desert should be your first stop – it’s been voted the best place in the desert to learn the game of golf. Experienced golfers can enjoy a more challenging round at Desert Willow Golf Resort or play where some of the greats have triumphed at the foothills of the glorious Coral Mountain at PGA West, home to the rugged terrain of the Pete Dye Mountain Course and the thrilling Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course.
Hot air balloon over an oasis
Experience all the natural beauty of Greater Palm Springs with a magical hot air balloon journey into the sky. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over lush palm plantations, rusty-red plains, velvety golf courses and across to the surrounding mountains. For a truly memorable and romantic desert experience, book a sunrise flight and indulge in a glass of Champagne as you gaze into the fairy floss skies.
Visit the Living Desert Zoo
Learn about Greater Palm Springs’ many unique species of flora and fauna with a visit to the Living Desert Zoo. This non-profit, conservation-focused zoo and botanical garden is home to an array of wildlife including desert tortoises, Mexican wolves, mountain lions and Peninsular pronghorns, as well as an impressive collection of native flora, from coastal agave to Mexican birds of paradise. The zoo also features several informative exhibits on regional geology and Native American culture.
Looking for more USA inspiration? Read United Experiences: 14 Must-Visit USA Cities.
Image credit: Visit Greater Palm Springs.
