Unforgettable Palm Springs Hikes Just Minutes from Santiago Resort
One of the best-kept secrets about staying at Santiago Resort is just how close you are to some of the most unique hiking experiences in Southern California. Diverse desert landscapes, rugged mountains, ancient canyons, hidden waterfalls—it’s all here. Two of the very best hikes in Palm Springs begin just minutes from Santiago’s front gate: South Lykken Trail and Tahquitz Canyon. Whether you’re seeking a classic desert climb or a culturally rich canyon walk, each offers its own kind of hiking adventure.
South Lykken Trail: A Scenic Ridge Walk Above the City
A favorite of both nature lovers and fitness fanatics, the South Lykken Trail offers dramatic panoramic views across Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley, and the San Jacinto Mountains. As you leave the city streets behind, the trail climbs steadily through rocky switchbacks, gaining an impressive 1,000 feet of elevation and offering sweeping views almost immediately. Following the trail along the ridgeline, the landscape is classic high desert with barrel cactus, towering ocotillo, huge granite boulders, and bursts of wildflowers from November through April. If you’re lucky, a roadrunner, quail or lizard might cross your path, and attentive hikers often spot endangered bighorn sheep on distant ridges.
The trail is rated moderate to strenuous due to the elevation gain. There is no shade, so make sure to bring a hat, sun protection, and plenty of water. Bring a snack and take advantage of the picnic tables at the top! Morning hikes deliver soft lighting for photos and the coolest temps, or head out during late afternoon in the winter months for gorgeous sunset colors.
There are the two great options for hiking the South Lykken Trail from Santiago.
Option 1: Out-and-Back From Mesquite
For a classic out-and-back hike, simply walk 15-minutes down Mesquite Avenue towards the well-marked South Lykken Trailhead at the base of the mountains. Most hikers spend 2 to 2.5 hours on this route, turning around after taking in the views at the ridge top or continuing farther along the trail depending on energy and weather.
Option 2: A One-Way Ridge Walk Back to Santiago
For a fun alternative, take a quick Lyft or Uber ride to the southern Lykken trailhead (near the Indian Canyons neighborhood) and follow the trail northbound back to the Mesquite trailhead, then walk the 15 minutes back to the resort. This option takes about the same amount of time but allows you to enjoy the long, unfolding views and full ridge experience without retracing your steps.
Tahquitz Canyon: Waterfall Trails & Ancient Canyon Beauty
Managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Tahquitz Canyon is one of the most culturally and environmentally significant places in Palm Springs. In contrast to the open ridgelines of Lykken, here you’ll find a sparkling streambed oasis tucked within dramatic canyon walls. Depending on the time of year, you may even experience one of Palm Springs’ most captivating natural features: the 60-foot Tahquitz Falls which flows seasonally from late winter through spring.
The nearly 2-mile loop trail covers an elevation gain of 350 feet and takes about 60-90 minutes to complete. The trail is considered moderately challenging—not because of steep climbs, but because you’ll navigate uneven footing, stone steps, and rocky pathways carved by centuries of flowing water. Along the way, interpretive signs share the deep cultural significance of the canyon, including its stories, traditional uses of native plants, and archaeological sites.
Located on protected tribal land, the entrance to Tahquitz Canyon is just north of the South Lykken Trailhead at the end of Mesquite Avenue. As of this writing, entry is $15 for adults (subject to change). It’s about a 20-minute walk from Santiago or a quick 3-minute drive (on-site parking is available). We recommend hiking Tahquitz Canyon mid-morning for cooler temperatures and a quieter canyon experience. There is very little shade on this trail, but many hikers enjoy cooling off in the stream.
Palm Springs may be best known for its midcentury architecture and relaxed resort lifestyle. But if you venture beyond the palm-fringed streets and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Southern California.