Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument — Attraction in Palm Desert

Our hike started on a fully exposed dirt trail that let us uphill quite quickly. Just a around a bend and WOW!!! What an awesome panorama of the valley beneath. After catching our breath and replenishing at least as much fluids as we lost in the short distance we continue on the trail. Hiking up an exposed trail after summiting San Jacinto the day before, we were ready to just drop off at mile two. So we did.

We dropped off the trail and did some dirt skiing and bush whacking till we hit middle earth, a canyon of rocks and boulders where water runs through it. Fortunately, flash floods were not in the forecast so we followed the trail of rocks and boulders.

Some areas were a bit sketchy and we either hiked up and over the danger zone, or simply slid down several feet of rock. After about two miles of this we were back at ground zero. Our hike ended with a nice sandy stroll through a dry wash, aka river bed.

A great way to end a weekend in Palm Springs with The Crew.

DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you watch and hear on the news, people pass away or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun...

Beautiful this year. Snow, rain. Silica rainbows. Blue skies. Lightening and thunder. The smell of electricity in the air. The Pacific Crest Trail is an adventure for all, and for all ages to be had.careful, don't push it, watch your little pains and the message they are telling you, your oxygen intake, your walking stick grip, and your fluid intake. Horses allowed. No bikes allowed. Watch out for Bighorn Sheep-rattlers-birds of prey-Reservation Boundry lines-snow-falling rock-unique geology, fauna and flora. Permits required. Hike with a buddy system in place, let someone know you are out there. Check the specific rules regarding your pets. And... Don't forget to stop at the crossroads and get a meal at Paradise Valley Cafe...a place with a VERY rich history, the origin of the first Coyote Sisters, the girls of Thomas Mountain, The Kidd Band, Tim O'Leary's local ranch, dancing & music, and a gathering of mixed souls from a 100 mile radius to enjoy life together in Paradise, a stop along the rich Crested Mountain Ridge Back Upper Desert Hills of...

This is a must see and do if you are visiting the Palm Springs area. You start by driving up the mountain road to the entrance to the park which is located close to the downtown area. Then catch a ride up the tram to the top of the mountain and catch the beautiful views while you are riding up the mountain. By the way the tram floor rotates in a circle around inside so everyone gets to see the beauty. Be prepared for the odd feeling when the floor starts to move. It is very slow but does take some getting used to. There are many activities to do once you are on the top of the mountain. Take advantage of all the hiking trails coursing through the park. There are also shops and restaurants at the top that are worth looking into. We spent a good half day there and still could go back to see more. Definitely a Must-See...