Tahquitz Canyon

Enjoyable hike to a beautiful waterfall. The hike was definitely worth the effort. It was absolutely beautiful when we arrived at the falls. We didn’t rush to the top and it took about 45-50 minutes… The water requirement is enforced, but it isn’t a big deal. Not sure this the best for young kids under 8-9? Theres some narrow spots with steep cliffs. This isnt the walk to have to carry tired little ones..

short but fun and engaging hike. there are steps some big, going up and down and a decent elevation. if you have bad knees or hips you may not make the entire loop but there is a nice flat star and nice things to look at. we got there at 8 and there was plenty of parking. we left at 10 am and the lot was very full. it's also very close to downtown. we did our liyhike then went for brunch and shopping.

Tahquitz Canyon is a beautiful hike and very well managed. They make sure you carry enough water, two bottles per person in summer and one in winter, which I really appreciated. The hike is moderate overall, with a few steeper sections, but nothing too difficult. The views are stunning and the trail leads you to the canyon and a lovely waterfall at the end. Since it is a loop, you get different scenery and perspectives on the way back, which makes it even more enjoyable. I loved the experience. They do make the hike sound a bit scarier than it actually is, but it is very doable and absolutely worth it.

My favorite hike while in Palm Springs, did it twice. Free to military and vets too! It had rained and the waterfall was raging, and the wet rocks color was amazing. I wouldn't call this 2 mile hike difficult but wear grippy shoes as there are lots of stones and loose soil. Can be slippery when wet. You are supposed to have a minimum of 32 oz water on the trail. There is a bottle filling station at the water fountain.

Tahquitz Canyon in Palm Springs is a definite must when you are looking for a fun activity to do in Palm Springs. Just just minutes out of town and its a hidden gem for sure. The canyon is beautiful and if you like nature, this place exemplifies what nature is capable of. The hiking trail is not very difficult but its a bit more than a walk, there are steps and elevation changes and although the trails are marked, there are lots of paths that can take you off the main trail.. but don't worry, its all going to the same place as its a big loop. there is a waterfall at the end which may or may not have water (but its still fantastic to see). This place is full of amazing photo opportunities. Lots of parking.. and yes, they will not let you in without water. Its not that bad when is cloudy, but in the hot sun, you will go through lots of water. Great place to visit.

Beautiful hike. Relatively easy. Go early and bring lots of water (they'll make you buy it, if you don't have enough) Do the whole loop and watch for big horned sheep!

We went on New Years Eve and there were many people on the trail. My teens all really enjoyed the hike and history of the place but as an experienced adult hiker I was expecting more after reading about the hike. Employees at the visitor center were very friendly and it's a nice facility. Be prepared to pay the entrance fee.

Tahquitz canyon hike in Palm Springs was one of my favorite experiences. We went around Thanksgiving, and the weather was perfect. Bring plenty of water and wear good hiking shoes. The waterfall at the end made it totally worth it.

My husband and I are in the practice of decolonizing thanksgiving. We call it ThanksLiving. We thought it would be a good day to hike in Tahquitz Canyon. We learned about the indigenous Cahuilla people that inhabited this beautiful desert land. We thought of them as we did this moderately challenging, beautiful hike. The creek was flowing and the waterfall was gorgeous. The canyon is so peaceful. There are plenty of rock steps, so good hiking shoes with traction are essential. The park rangers in the visitor center make sure you have enough water with you, as there's no shade and the sun can be brutal. On this day, temps were cool and we hiked early so the sun was still shining on the other side of the mountain, but we still brought along our reusable water bottles, and sunscreen of course. This is truly a special place. There wasn't any trash along the trail, which was good to see that people are respecting the space, and/or staff is cleaning up after any littering occurs. This really was a great way for us to spend this day, my heart is full and my body is happy for the movement and exercise.

Updates Oct 2025: The rainfall has been minimal so the waterfall is a slight trickle but still a beautiful spot. We began on the shady part and after the waterfall doubled back to stay in the shade. We did have to purchase an additional liter of water as they are requiring a liter per person, vs just 16 oz on our last trip. I only needed 16 oz for the entire hour + 15 minute hike. The site has updated the hike to be strenuous, but that seems a bit exaggerated. It was easier and less of a distance than the Victor Loop and less skidding as the sand is finer. There is more of stepping up and down, like rock steps, but nothing too strenuous so I'd categorize this as more as light/moderate than strenuous. A wonderful hike and way to spend the morning.

Great time hiking up to see the waterfalls yesterday. A good 2 miles on a well maintained trail. Definitely worth it after rainy days.

Perfect day hike and the waterfall was incredible to see in the desert. I would highly recommend this for any age person to do the hike. The price is right. Get there early and make sure to bring water.

Fantastic place to hike! One of my favorites ever! We visited in May and were able to see the waterfall that only runs during certain months of the year. The hike is not aggressive, but if you have knee issues, I'd avoid because there are some higher step-ups or down spots along the way. You can also buy an annual pass if you plan to visit, as it costs $15 each time. You also need to bring an ID and 32oz of water or the ranger will not allow you to hike.

This hike is a must see! It is a fairly easy hike, approximately 2 miles round trip with a beautiful waterfall at the top. Parking was good, we paid 15$ each to enter. They require each person to have 32 ounces (1 liter) of water before doing hike. If you did not bring it with you, you can purchase a bottle for $2.50. The hike is somewhat Rocky, but we saw many kids and older persons completing it. Some used walking sticks. The heat is more of an obstacle, so wear hats, put on sunscreen and plan for early hikes in hotter days. There are a few small running water spots and a large waterfall at the top. The more is a fabulous pool to dip your hot feet in! The water was very cold, but felt refreshing! Lots of people on the trail, but I would not call it crowded and everyone was so pleasant!

Returned after 5 years to hike this trail, and appreciated it more this time. The trail is so close to town, but a world away, the trail length is perfect at 1.4 miles, although a bit rugged with lots of rocks and steps, while the scenery is spectacular from start to the finish at a waterfall used in the movie "Lost Horizons" to represent shangri-la. The stewards are keeping the area pristine, with zero trash seen thanks to the $15 fee per person collected at the visitor's center, which has restrooms. Water is required, so bring 16 oz of water per person, or buy some at the ticket counter. The trail gets crowded and hot later, so go early when they open at 8 for the best experience

Tried out this hiking trail since Indian Canyon was closed for construction. This was def a good pick for us only 1.8 miles of a hike, which is good for beginners and intermediate hikers. It's a very clean hiking canyon when you enter to pay for tickets and buy souvenirs or use the restroom. It's a $15 fee for adults but if your law enforcement it's for free. You need at least a liter of water in order to walk. If not you can purchase a liter from them for only $2. So make sure to have your water on deck. It's really hot so have sunscreen on don't get BURNT! It's a nice view of a waterfall at the end and you can get inside the water if you want. The mini water areas is not recommended to get in because of the snakes. It's a nice little workout but still wear hiking boots to support your ankles it's many rocks and steeps you have to walk on. Overall, this is a very nice experience if you are in the Palm desert area for vacation. This hiking trail will not disappoint you! They gave good customer service and they have a trail ranger if you want one to walk with your group. I will def come back here when I come back!

Came here on a Monday around 11am. Parking lot was full so we had to park on the street and walk up the hill. Went into the building to pay the fees. It was $15 per adult and $7 for child. Got wristbands to show we paid. Staff wanted to check my water but my husband had the water in his bag and was in the restroom. She sold me tickets and then saw the water and was friendly about it. It was about 1.9 miles total and is on very rocky, uneven terrain with lots of steps. While walking up the trail there is not much to see. There is a creek running next to the trail that you can hear and then see. Many people on the trail. The waterfall was very underwhelming. There were many people there in swimsuits swimming. We went back a different way than the one we came in and it seemed easier (probably because were were going downhill) Overall it was something to do and we did it but not something I would do again or recommend.

Taquitz Canyon is an easy hike around 2 miles or more if you explore around we ended up doing 3.2 miles. The visitor centre is staffed with knowledgeable people, and once you've paid US$15.00 per person for entering the park, you can begin your hike to the Tahquitz falls. The hike is not difficult at all: A slow gradual climb till you reach the waterfall. And a round trip to the falls only takes about 1.5 hours or so. They don't charge for parking lot so that's great. Not happy about the entrance charge for such a small hike. Recommended it for one time and that's it.

Beautiful easy hike in the desert. I had some time to kill so I decided to get outdoors and see the waterfall. Entry is $15 per person and everyone is required to have water, for good reason. In mid March the requirement was 16 ounces per hiker. They sell water at the entrance if you need it. There are also restrooms at the start of the hike. It's crowded as it's definitely a tourist destination. If there's water in it you'll walk along a nice stream for a part of the hike. Took about an hour and there was limited shade. Well worth it though as you'll be rewarded with a pretty waterfall at the end. You're allowed to go in the waterfall but that water is COLD! There's a parking lot near the entrance. I didn't know this so I parked down the street and walked up to the welcome center. Get here early to avoid the crowds and the heat.

I was really happy we chose to hike this trail. The waterfall was definitely a draw. However even outside of that the views were beautiful. There were streams with mini waterfalls and aerial views that makes this hike worthwhile. We came at the end of February so it was the perfect weather - sunny and warm but not blistering hot. There was enough shade behind large rocks every so often to take a break. The trail itself had rock stairs that were steep and uneven. In addition there were a couple of bridges over the creeks. By the waterfall you had to walk on spaced out large rocks - no bridge. There were rocks all along the trail and at times the trail thinned by the edge. I would say the trail was moderately strenuous and doable, especially if you're careful and took it slow.

Amazing hike! Gorgeous water fall with many little swimming pools for you and your kids! A little bit on the harder side. If you need a walking stick it might not be best because there are many steep steps on this hike up the canyon. However if you feel empowered enough, do it! (Might waste $15) Was a gorgeous 1.8- 2 mile round trip there and back. Make sure to bring 32 oz of water or else you will need to purchase a bottle for $1.50. The women inside at the front desk, Paula and Amaret I believe? were super helpful and gave us answers to any questions we had. I definitely recommend this if it is season and you are in town!

Meh. Way too overcrowded for what it is. It's a very short hike, and the price to enter is robbery. $15 per adult! What a joke. It wouldn't be so bad if it wasn't super crowded with children everywhere. The rangers suck also. I thought it was just one that was nasty, but they all have a stick up their ***. Not worth it. I would recommend looking into other trails in the area, or even visiting the tramway for a MUCH better hiking experience.

Great hike !! Bring water the rangers check !! Waterfall scenery sunshine makes for a great morning go before the heat !

Beautiful, was a perfect hiking day. We reversed the hike and went counter clock wise. They have a small gift shop. Bought a hat kinda expensive unfortunately the wire bent and the side doesn't stay up stay up. Beautiful raw granite and it's a decent hike not to hard for the most part. We took four hours to loop it in between breaks. Cross a bridge or two at the top is the waterfall and you can swim up there. Unfortunately we were on a time crunch. I really enjoyed it , was really close to our hotel.

They want to charge $12.50 for adults and $6.00 for kids EACH for a two mile hike. There are literally hundreds of other places in the immediate area that are far superior that don't ask you to waste money to hike. In other words, free. If you have a small group it'll cost more than $100 to hike here, what a joke! Give me yourself a favor and don't waste your time.

I do not recommend if you're 12. We told her we were 12 and she said we don't look like it. And once we left the hike she yelled at us as we walked out since my mom was a little in front and she raised her voice at me and my 12 year old friend and said lying is not good for us. Shame shame. I was born in 2013 and she yelled at us under her 2,013 breath. The hike was beautiful but the workers are not underneath.

Great Hike, one of the places in the desert. The views are amazing. Make sure you bring water with you. The water is beautiful

We visited at the end of January on a sunny afternoon. Good parking lot. They ask you to carry 32 oz of water per person. Hike level is easy to moderate. It was warm in the sun, cool in the shade. After about 3 pm, there was some shade on the left (north-facing) side of the canyon. The trail splits apart and joins together again. There are no signposts, and the printed guide vaguely corresponds to the trail. Just respect rocks arranged to indicate that there is no trail. Head up one side and down the other to form a loop. Including time to take photos and videos, it took me about an hour and twenty minutes. Perhaps longer if you have kids or need more time. The falls are great! Some fall colors lingered on the tree at the top of the waterfall. I also liked the view at the lip of the canyon and the remains of a channel built to carry water. We appreciated a hummingbird in her nest in a brittlebush near the trail! We had AT&T cellphone signal on most of the trail, but do not rely on signal. If you are not out by the specified time (5 pm on this visit), the ranger will lock the gate and may tow your car. I think the experience was worth the admission fee.

I typically wouldn't pay for a short 2 mile hike but this was for a bachlorette party weekend. Not strenuous at all. You can do this in sandals. Not bad views. Very crowded, you'll have to wait a lot since there's a lot of pictures. Bathroom facilities available. Gift shop. They close the trails after a certain point (11am for me) since it gets really hot. Get in ASAP if you plan to go.

Go early before it gets hot! There's a $12 cover per person and you get a wristband. Are we at Coachella? Jk. The entrance and exit to the hike are all via the visitor center. They require you to have water so you don't dehydrate. The hike itself is rather easy and the waterfall is nice, however, wasn't as massive as I thought it would be. You can get great views of the city during the hike. We noticed that as we finished we saw a bunch of people on the trail so if you want to avoid crowds, go when they first open!

Really beautiful hike to the waterfall, fun for all ages. The trail is well maintained with gorgeous scenery. The waterfall is so pretty. I think the fee is too high and the parking lot is too far from the visitor center.

This is a pretty awesome hike. At first I wasn't too keen on having to pay $12 for a hike when there are a bunch of them you can go to for free. However it was worth it for the following reasons: 1) The trail, stream and waterfall areas were all in great condition. 2) There were a bunch of great spots to take some really nice photos 3) Nice parking lot 4) The stream was really clean, we spent a lot of time just hanging out at the stream and soaking our feet 5) They limit the number of people on the trail so everyone can be socially distant Definitely check out this trail if you are in the Palm Springs area. Get there early, otherwise you can get turned away if it gets too crowded.

Fairly easy hike that takes about an hour and costs $15 per person. You must have water on you, but can buy onsite if needed. Parking lot was full by 9:30 am, but you can park below the park on the street and walk up. The trail is quite busy with lots of families, so expect it to take longer than advertised due to pedestrian traffic jams. The terrain isn't bad at all, but not suitable for those who aren't comfortable on rocky and uneven surfaces. Earlier the better for parking, cooler temps and avoiding the hordes. Waterfall is neat and cooling, you can even take a dip and get up close... makes sense why this trail is so popular!

Great hike to a small waterfall! Highly recommend using poles for the steeper stepped parts. Always bring plenty of water in the desert. For regular hikers it's easy. For out-of-town visitors used to flatter groomed trails, sections may be outside your comfort zone.

Rangers are very friendly and knowledgeable. But a female employee at the visitor center is very rude.

This is an update to my earlier report. My most recent visit was May 2022. Admission fees have been adjusted: $15.00 for adults and $7.00 for children (6-12 years). Entry is free for U.S. Military and First Responders with ID. Because of the warm weather, the docents really emphasized each adult should have at least one liter of water before setting out. (There is a water fountain to fill canteens. Bottled water is also sold at the station.) Mask requirements have been suspended. The waterfall wasn't flowing with any particular force; but the basin/pool was full. A lot of people were playing in the water. This is a "personal opinion": Having hiked the trail a number of times, I think the "return route" down from the falls to the trailhead is an easier hike than the prescribed route "up" from the trailhead to the falls. If you use the "down" route to go up to the falls, you'll find that the incline is not as steep (overall); the trail is more sand than rock; and there are fewer stone "step ups". I mention this because I noticed that a lot of people were returning from the falls to the trailhead using the "route up". Retracing your steps and returning via your original path makes sense, especially if you didn't take the free map offered at the ranger station. But a lot of people I encountered apparently never made it to the falls, finding the path too strenuous. Just a consideration.

NOTE: THERE ARE 2 HIKING TRAILS!!! We did not realize this, and we started up the (free) Taquitz trail facing the valley. It's a steep, strenuous path, that rises through switchbacks up the ridge. The views are tremendous. It's not for everyone, you need to be fit. We ran out of time, but apparently if you go all the way, you can look down on the top of the waterfall. The OTHER trail starts at the Visitor Center. It costs $15 per adult in April 2023. We didn't do this trail, but it is apparently fairly flat, and goes to the bottom of the waterfall up the canyon. I think it's a 1.9 mile round trip. So pick your trail: free and steep, or pay to go flat. Either way, it's a beautiful place, and the plants smell really lovely!! If you park down the road by the stop sign, beware the white old guy on the bike. He repeatedly put himself in front of our car, forcing us to stop, and asking for payment for parking. I'm pretty sure this was a scam. We drove away, and he cycled after us. It was our only negative experience in Palm Springs.

Make sure you take lots of water (it's required) Fun for the entire family! Make sure you catch the movie at the visitor's center before you go.

A great little oasis in the Desert! The hike takes about an hour from the visitors center to the waterfall. Bring cash... it costs about $12 per person. Well worth it! The views are spectacular and it's an easy hike with easy gradients and a couple of steep steps here and there. If you go in the summer, make sure you take a couple of bottles of water as the sun will take it out of you. Best time to go is in the spring when the snow is melting and the waterfalls and I'm full force. We went in the fall and it was still beautiful. Enjoy!

Great family time and wonderful service at center!! Hike was easy to medium for all ages. Be prepared to get wet in ice cold waterfall!!! Great memory made!!! Definitely recommend!!

This was the only hike that required us to pay $12.50 a person and that is because this is a sacred canyon that has a seasonal 60 foot waterfall. Before you actually do this hike ask if there is water in the waterfall. This hike would not be impressive without the waterfall. The waterfall was beautiful. While it was hot and getting to the waterfall without any shade seemed longer then it was, the waterfall was so cold. We did take our shoes off to cool off but you won't be able to keep your feet in the water for too long. When we came the water was freezing cold. No one attempted to swim here. Some people came in and walked back the same path but I recommend you do a loop and not go back the same way you came in.  The view of the city on the way back was beautiful.

This is nice short hike, we came in the morning around 930am so we actually got bit of shade. Admission is $15 per person and you enter/exit through the visitor center. They also confirm to make sure you have water with you. There are bathrooms at the visitor center as well. The hike itself is pretty easy, you can get some cool pictures with some big rocks plus a nice view of the city. At the moment October 2021, there is no waterfall. If that is important to you be sure call and check first or come back in spring time. The price maybe a bit steep for some for such a short hike, however this is to help the cost of upkeeping of the trail and also to keep the crowds away I'm sure. We only saw few other people the morning that went.

DONT GO .. not worth it. Indians ruined this trail ! They doubled price to $15 . Then they have a jerk at the front counter hustling water bottle sales. We all had a water , he says we needed two each... or forced to buy their $8 water bottles. Ranger dude at counter is a bully & a jerk. "Didn't you read signs in parking lot .. you need 2 liters of water " A really nice trail ruined by Aqua Caliente tribe

This trail must be protected at all costs! If you just want to make it to the waterfall, it takes about 35 minutes with some moderate incline and rocky steps along the way. It took us 20 minutes to come back down. We were happy to pay the $12 entrance fee because seeing waterfall was just so beautiful. Perhaps we would've been less happy paying if we came during the dry season. We saw many small kids and seniors that were able to make it to the top without much difficulty. 95% of the other hikers left their mask on and tried to maintain some distance but there were narrow parts of the trail where some crowding happened. In February, the water was too ICE COLD to swim but many of us bit the bullet and did it for the gram anyways! And sadly as everyone has mentioned..NO DOGS :( they will check your car and turn you back if you even try.

We loved this hike. The only reason why I'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 is because during covid times the rangers did not properly sign the fact that they were closed during certain times. We drove up to the gate, saw it closed but people walking in (we figured parking lot was full but entrance still open), we drove down and parked on the street, we walked up past the gate and only half way to the rangers office did we learn that they would only allow people in in 30-40 minutes and that we had to wait outside of the park. Sorry run on sentence.... At least it was true that they would open and we were able to hike. Also the hike level is confusing ... the website said strenuous and AllTrails said easy so we were not sure what to expect and ventured with our 4 and 2 yr olds anyway. For us it is moderate. The climb is exhausting for kids and there are in fact many tall "steps" where kids need help - but overall totally doable and we would go again - even with the 12.5 fee per adult.

This is closed to the public on Mondays through Thursday. Don't go there unless it's Friday, Saturday or Sunday during the summer!

Best family hike and hike available in PS area. The water is cold but refreshing. So nice to get in at the end of a hike

Beautiful short trail .... Parking is limited so arrive early . Trail / visitor center opens @7:30am plus there is a fee to go .. only downfall is by 8-9am it's extremely hot .. there's no shade until you reach the water falls. Make sure you bring a hat, dun block and plenty of water . This trail is very clean and easy to hike . Great place for family with kids & pets . Level of trail is easy .. not too steep it's more like a nature walk .. beautiful waterfall.. please sure you pick up your own trash on your way in & out .. don't be lazy ..

I used to spend a lot of time in Tahquitz Canyon in my younger years, escape the heat and jump off boulders in to the cool water very refreshing. I recommend hiking up to the falls. Keep the canyon clean don't leave trash!

Did this years ago. Used to be better. They're charging $15 for a trail. Are you kidding. And no dogs allowed. Save your money and go to one of the free trails around. Used to remember when trails used to be free

The hike was beautiful! It's not too hard, but easy to get dehydrated. They sell waters for 2 dollars at the base. It's also 15 dollars per adult, but honestly worth the price. There's also a lot of fun Little Rock's to climb

This is a really lovely little hike/ it's conveniently located, and you can not beat the waterfall cool off at the top!

Who puts a fence and a giant gate around a waterfall and charges $15 per person to see it? This is such a tourist trap. The gift shop is over-priced, and the workers at the cash registers obviously hate their jobs because they act like a bunch of cretins, treating visitors poorly. The website sure is convincing, but don't buy into the hype. There are plenty of other wonderful hiking trails in the area without the toxic vibes.

An unexpected delight! I wasn't sure what to expect on this hike. I may have overlooked the 2.5 on the strenuous scale, but it was totally do-able. After buying admission ($12.50/adult) we had water in hand and took off on the trail. It was a Friday, and there were scattered groups of people on the trail. It was a nice sunny day, and there was a lot of sun on the trail, with spots of shade to offer a reprieve. The canyon was beautiful, with large rocks you can climb up on along the way (photo-op?) and a creek (river?) flowing through the canyon. There are several trail markers pointing you in the right direction, and the trail was easy to navigate. Just when we were wondering when (if?) we'd make it to the falls.....ta-da, there it was!! It was a nice shady resting spot to take pics, enjoy a rest and re-charge. There were a few people who opted to test the water, wading into knee-deep, and reports were that it was chilling. We would hike it again. A great couple of hours enjoying the Palm Springs desert!

If you are in town a weekend and looking for a quick easy and beautiful hike this is the place to go. I personally love coming here just to clear my mind, hear the birds and enjoy the sound of the waterfall. Yes there is a small water fall and you can get in the water if you wish to. This place is super close to down town and its only 12.50 per adult and 6.00 for kids 6 to 12 years very family friendly. Sorry doggies lovers no or pets allowed. Enjoy

Super cool store at the bottom of the trail. I didn't hike it but bf and my daughter did. It's a beautiful trail with a waterfall but they charge $12.50 each. My 4 stars are for the beautiful setting and views!!

I like to think of Tahquitz Canyon as Palm Springs version of Runyon Canyon. This hike is not too far off Palm Springs main street and offers sweeping views of Palm Springs. What I like about this hike it that the hike rises up in elevation quickly. Before you know it hiking up the trail you can see the entire Palm Springs. We only hiked about half way up and down which took about an hour. If your going to hike the whole trail I would suggest brining some snacks and water. Depending upon the month, the temperature rises quickly, so I would look to get there by 8am in the morning or sun down. The highlight of the hike was when we saw big horn sheep off the trail. While there's no guarantee you will see any animals, the hike and is very scenic. This is a great hike to go on an is great for repeat visits.