Agua Caliente Indian Canyons

Many centuries ago, the ancestors of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians settled in the canyon areas near what is now Palm Springs. They farmed, raised animals, and built communities. Today, remnants of their civilization still exist, preserved in the Agua Caliente Indian Canyons area, which is part of more than 31,500 acres of ancestral tribal land.

Four specific canyons are of interest to visitors, who are welcome to tour the ancient sites. Among them, Palm Canyon features stands of indigenous California Fan palm trees in breathtaking abundance, as they jut up out of the canyon floor in stark contrast to the surrounding rocks. There is a moderately graded and paved foot path leading to the canyon floor, where picnicking by a small stream is possible.

At Tahquitz Canyon, a beautiful 60-foot waterfall is one of the main attractions, complemented by rock art, old irrigation systems, and exhibits of cultural artifacts. Both self-guided and ranger-led hikes are available. The two other canyons are Murray Canyon and Andreas Canyon within short hikes from each other. They, too, feature palms as well as Big Horn sheep, mule deer and other animals.

The Agua Caliente Indian Canyons are located at 38500 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California 92264. Operating hours are from 8am to 5pm every day from October through July and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in July through September. Admission costs $8 per adult, $6 for seniors, and $4 per child. Equestrian entrance is permitted for a charge of $10 per rider/mount.