One of the Coachella Valley’s hidden gems isn’t really hidden at all.
The Willis Palms Oasis is nestled within the heart of the Coachella Valley Preserve, which protects 20,000 acres in the Indio Hills. The Willis Palms Oasis Loop Trail is a geological wonder, with a 1,200-foot-long grove of California fan palms (Washingtonia filifera). Once you arrive and go inside these lush palm groves, you will feel like you’re in a jungle a world away from the desert surroundings of the Coachella Valley
About a quarter-mile north of Ramon Road/Washington Street, along Thousand Palms Canyon Road, you will see a small parking area and map kiosk/trailhead on the north side of the road. This is where the trail begins. From here, you will enter a sandy wash that goes along the San Andreas Fault. Doing the loop clockwise makes for a more gradual ascent and scenic descent through the oasis. You can also hike a short out-and-back just to the oasis; it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the trailhead/parking area. The trail gets a little rocky shortly after it starts and gradually ascends toward a ridge. You will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the unique desert landscape.
If you choose to go farther, this trail connects to the McCallum Trail, which leads to McCallum Pond. You can go even farther to the Moon Country Trail, which leads to an amazing vista.
The Willis Palms Oasis is always accessible, but other parts of the Coachella Valley Preserve—particularly the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, part of the larger Coachella Valley Preserve—have very limited hours. As of this writing, the hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
Along the well-marked trail, the landscape transitions from open desert to a twisting canyon that leads to the Willis Palms Oasis. These native palms thrive thanks to underground water trapped by fault lines, creating a rare and vibrant ecosystem in the middle of the desert.
Willis Palms Oasis is more than just a typical scenic stop with amazing views—it’s a symbol of the desert’s ability to support life. After a fire swept through the area in 2010, this large palm grove has rebounded, showcasing the resilience of native flora. The towering palms provide shade and shelter for a variety of plant and animal species. If you pause a moment to capture the breathtaking views and enjoy the serene sounds of birds singing (this truly is a birders’ paradise), you may also hear animals scurrying underneath the fallen palm fronds that cover the ground like a blanket of carpet. It truly is a captivating yet serene moment.
The trail is also known for its seasonal wildflowers and its historical importance. The Cahuilla Indigenous tribes once used the fan palms for food, shelter and materials, and the area is a vital part of their cultural heritage. Today, the oasis stands as a living testament to the intersection of nature and history.
Willis Palms Oasis Trail is a moderate trail loop, about 4 miles, with just more than 530 feet of elevation gain. Personally, I’d say it’s a fairly easy hike, with the exception of some thick sand, along with rocky spots here and there; you will definitely want to wear proper hiking shoes. Hiking poles are helpful, too. Bring at least one or two liters of water. Wear a hat and sun protection, as the only shade you will have will be at the oasis, should you choose to make the short climb and go inside—which I highly recommend. Whether you’re exploring the oasis for the first time or returning for another adventure, it is an awe-inspiring place vital to the history of the region.
Looking to the north, above the canyon walls, you’ll see the Little San Bernardino Mountains. In the distance to the northwest, towering high above the view of San Bernardino Mountains, will be San Gorgonio Mountain (or Old Greyback, as it’s called), the highest peak in Southern California, standing at 11,503 feet. To the southwest is San Jacinto Peak, the second-highest peak in Southern California, at 10,834 feet. Directly south is the Santa Rosa Mountain Range, with Toro Peak as the highest point, at 8,717 feet.
Before you go on any hike, I recommend checking the Friends of the Desert Mountains’ trails page at www.desertmountains.org/trails; it includes status links for most local trails. On that page, you’ll also find the 10 Desert Essentials for hiking; following them is a must!
One more thing: As of this writing, the federal government shutdown was ongoing, and as long as it continues, access to federally managed lands may be affected.
As the weather gets cooler and the holidays approach, consider spending time outside and taking a hike. It’s a simple yet powerful way to stay active, connect with nature, and prepare your body and mind for the season ahead. With so many upcoming outdoor events in the Coachella Valley, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the great outdoors.
Here are some details about some fun events/runs/walks coming up:
• National Take a Hike Day, on Monday, Nov. 17: Celebrate the joy of hiking at one of the valley’s many preserves. Whether you choose Willis Palms or another scenic route, it’s a great day to lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trail.
• The Astronomical Society of the Desert hosts a monthly star party from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 22—and the event is free! Experience the desert night sky at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, at 51500 Highway 74, in Palm Desert. Telescopes and expert guides make this a magical evening for all ages. See more details and register two weeks prior at www.desertmountains.org/event/star-party-at-the-monument-11. Note: If skies are overcast, or if the federal government shutdown continues, the event will be cancelled.
• The Palm Springs Wild Turkey Trot 5K occurs on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 27, from 8 to 10 a.m. It’s a fast, flat course through downtown Palm Springs, starting at 100 N. Palm Canyon Drive (at Tahquitz Canyon Way). See the details and register at RunSignup.com.
• Also on Thanksgiving is the Martha’s Village and Kitchen 5K, from 8 to 11 a.m. This family-friendly run/walk supports the nonprofit’s homeless services. Wear your best turkey hat and racing tutu! It starts at 73545 El Paseo, in Palm Desert. Learn more and register at RunSignup.com.
• The Coachella Valley Heart and Stroke Walk is slated for Saturday, Dec. 6. The expo opens at 8 a.m., with the walk at 9 a.m. Join the American Heart Association for the 5K walk/run at Civic Center Park, at 43900 San Pablo Avenue, in Palm Desert. The event features a kids’ zone, food tents and water bowls for four-legged friends. Learn more and register at www2.heart.org.