This spring, the Southern California oasis will burst into colors as desert wildflowers bloom in Palm Springs and beyond, and we have your guide to seeing Greater Palm Springs in full bloom!
It's peak blooming season with colorful wildflowers and luscious greenery, and it's the perfect time to plan a wildflower-inspired trip to Greater Palm Springs. Here's everything you need to know on where to see wildflowers in Palm Springs and beyond.
Know before you go: a gentle reminder to be kind when visiting Greater Palm Springs. Leave no trace when exploring on hiking trails, try to stay on the path, and resist the urge to pick wildflowers as not to interrupt future wildflower blooms.
Where to Find Wildflowers Near Palm Springs
Friends of the Desert Mountains Executive Director Tammy Martin shares that the "spring bloom shows what the desert is really all about."
Whether it's adventuring on trails or taking a guided tour, you can find flowers blooming everywhere right now.
Self-Guided
Greater Palm Springs is known for its vast hiking trails that swoop in and out of the desert mountains. This spring, wildflowers are blooming throughout these trails including desert dandelions, desert lilies, lupine, verbena, evening primrose, geraea and more. Below are a few of the top hiking locations where visitors can explore the fields of yellow and purple desert flowers.
Always be mindful to stay on the trails during your wildflower hunt. Below are recommendations for wildflower hikes around Greater Palm Springs.
Murray Canyon at Indian Canyons | Palm Springs
Explore the nature and beauty of the iconic Indian Canyons this spring. Stop by the Andreas Canyon trail and view a variety of desert wildflowers blooming. To make this experience even better, you'll get to view one of the largest natural palm oases in North America. Hike Murran Canyon trail to snap photos of Instagram-worthy wildflowers.
Mission Creek Preserve | Desert Hot Springs
Take in the inspiring scenery and view a variety of wildflowers in bloom at this 3.2-mile out-and-back trail. Be mesmerized by the lush bloom and enjoy the natural beauty of the preserve.
South Carl Lykken Trail | Palm Springs
Discover wildflowers and cactus flowers on this 3.6-mile trail. At the top near the resting area, take in the breathtaking view of Greater Palm Springs.
Araby Trail | Palm Springs
This 4.1-mile trail is normally a popular one for weekend hikers. You will spot a few flowers in bloom and will have a nice view of Bob Hope's house from a distance.
Randall Henderson Loop Trail | Palm Desert
This 2.7-mile trail had wildflowers blooming along the trail and it's a good start to wildflower season.
The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center | Palm Desert
Learn about wildflowers at this Visitor Center nestled against a backdrop of desert mountains. Be sure to inquire about the best times to view wildflowers, as they often bloom for one to two hours at a time, which means viewing experiences may vary depending on the time of your visit.
Guided Tours with Desert Adventures
Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours & Events makes it easy to explore the oasis, thanks to a four-wheel drive and a professional guide. Hop on a Jeep and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. Learn about the rich history of Greater Palm Springs from experienced professionals who will take you on an exciting journey of the oasis, and see wildflowers near the San Andreas Fault.
(Desert Sunflowers and Arizona Lupine at Metate Ranch, Red Jeep Tour)
Guided tours offer a special chance to find wildflowers that might otherwise be missed. Desert Adventures guide, Bonnie Atkins, states that some of the most prevalent flowers in bloom this year are the Desert Dune Sunflower, Desert Five Spot, Sand Blazing Star, Dust Flower among others. Keep an eye out for these beauties during these guided tours and enjoy the ultimate wildflower viewing experience this season.
San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour
(Wildflowers at Metate Ranch, Red Jeep Tour)
Take a private tour through Metate Ranch preserve on the San Andreas Fault, where you'll spot a sea of wildflowers as you learn the history of Greater Palm Springs.
Beyond Greater Palm Springs
Joshua Tree National Park Tour
Explore the 16th largest park in the nation with this private tour of Joshua Tree National Park. Not only will you get to see the famous Joshua Tree, but visitors will also experience a unique view of the iconic national park as wildflowers bloom.
Anza-Borrego
One of the largest state parks in California is blooming with lively wildflowers and plants. Head to Anza-Borrego State Park to be able to explore two different wildflower locations.
Read more about exploring Anza-Borrego State Park and staying in Borrego Springs.
Wildflower Events
Celebrations, hikes, and 5K runs are among the many ways you can get in the super bloom spirit. Be sure to check out Friends of the Desert Mountains for upcoming spring events.
Wildflower Nature Walk
Walk the Randall Henderson trail and learn how to identify the various wildflowers.
(Desert Sunflower at Metate Ranch)
For more natural beauty, check out The Best Hikes in Tahquitz and Indian Canyons.
