Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail

Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail makes for an ideal, quick, family-friendly outing. It may be short and relatively relaxed in terms of difficulty, but it will increase your heart rate—you’re ascending, after all. You might be able to bring your family along on this meander, but you’ll have to leave your dog at home. Another thing to note is that it will cost you $15 per person (and $7 per child between the ages of 6-12) to complete this hike, but it’s worth the cost—trust us. Lastly, exploring this incredible hike in Palm Springs between May and October is best. The desert environment sucks the water out of the waterfall during summer.

The Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail packs a punch for a short hike. The short distance fused with a 60ft waterfall, sprawling view at the highest point, and flanking boulders add up to a worthwhile exploration.

Setting out from your car parked in the car park along W. Mesquite Ave, you’ll follow the road toward the Tahquitz Canyon Visitors Center. When you reach a fork in the trail, go right to follow the Tahquitz Canyon Trail pathway. Soon, the path will take you closer to the edge of Tahquitz Creek before reaching another fork in the trail. Keep right to continue meandering through boulders and shrubbery. Just before the highest point, you’ll reach a 60ft waterfall—if you’ve opted to explore outside of summer. Take a moment to bask in the view before continuing to the scenic overlook.

The path veers around, taking you to the creek’s opposite side. Keep right at all subsequent forks to make your way back to the Visitors Center and car park.

Trail Highlights

Tahquitz Canyon Seasonal Waterfall

You’ll find the Tahquitz Canyon seasonal waterfall roaring from October to May—unless it’s an unusually sizzling summer. But then, the 60ft waterfall makes the $15 entry fee worth the cost!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog on the Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail?

Unfortunately, you cannot take your dog on the Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail.

Should I bother completing the Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail in the summer?

The bang-for-your-buck Tahquitz Trail is still worth doing during the summer. Just don’t go on the hike expecting to see a 60ft waterfall.