By Karen Sprinkles
With the desert as the majestic backdrop, the Palm Springs area offers myriad opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, leisure activities, relaxation and communing with nature. Framed by the glorious San Jacinto mountains, the region offers unparalleled scenery and splendid vistas. From Palm Springs and Indian Wells, to Palm Desert and Joshua Tree, visitors will find plentiful destinations ideal for the perfect getaway.
Desert Hot Springs
Located a few miles east of Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs is known for therapeutic hot springs that bubble to the surface. Set against a scenic desert backdrop, these restorative pools can be found at several resorts including Two Bunch Palms, a favorite destination of gangster Al Capone. The more affordable Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel includes complete spa services as well as dining at the Sunshine Cafe.
Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel
10805 Palm Dr
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240-2598
(760) 329-7000
dhsspa.com
Living Desert Zoo & Garden
The desert's unique habitats unfold in this 1,200-acre desert reserve that features a museum and educational center. Walk or take a tram through the park, which showcases a variety of plants, insects and wildlife. The reserve is also home to mountain lions, rattlesnakes, reptiles, bighorn sheep, golden eagles, roadrunners and owls.
Living Desert Zoo & Garden
47-900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-5694
livingdesert.org
Indian Canyons
Hikers will enjoy exploring these beautifully preserved canyons on land owned and adminstered by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Easy-to-moderate hiking trails connect three canyons: Palm, Andreas and Murray. Oasis-fed groves of native palms comprise some of the beautiful scenery awaiting visitors of these dramatic areas.
Indian Canyons
(760) 323-6018
theindiancanyons.com
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Ascending nearly 5,900 feet up the slopes of Mount San Jacinto, the popular Aerial Tramway affords riders impressive views of the entire Coachella Valley. New Swiss funicular cars rotate during the 14-minute ascent to the summit, where several restaurants and a gift shop await. Guided mule rides and cross-country ski equipment are also available at the summit.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One Tramway Rd.
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 325-1391
www.pstramway.com
About the Author:
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
