Palm Springs, California, is renowned for its sun-soaked landscapes, glamorous mid-century architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled in the heart of the Coachella Valley, this desert oasis offers much more than just poolside relaxation and luxury resorts. In fact, Palm Springs is an exceptional launching point for a wide range of day trips, whether you’re seeking dramatic natural wonders, historic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, or family-friendly adventures.
Within a couple of hours’ drive, travelers can explore everything from the otherworldly terrain of Joshua Tree National Park to the sparkling shores of Lake Arrowhead. You’ll also find charming mountain towns, thriving wine regions, and fascinating cultural sites that highlight the diversity of Southern California. This guide curates the top day trips from Palm Springs, offering options for nature lovers, history buffs, foodies, and anyone eager to experience the best of the region.
To ensure a well-rounded and reliable list, each destination was selected based on current traveler reviews, official tourism board recommendations, and community insights from travel forums. Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a romantic outing, or a family adventure, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for memorable day trips from Palm Springs.
How We Chose These Day Trips
Selecting the best day trips from Palm Springs involved a thorough, research-driven approach. First, we analyzed recommendations from official tourism boards, local visitor centers, and city guides to identify destinations within a practical day-trip radius—generally under two hours each way. Next, we reviewed traveler feedback from reputable travel forums and recent reviews to gauge popularity, accessibility, and overall visitor satisfaction.
We also considered variety, ensuring a mix of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and unique experiences. Destinations were chosen to suit different interests and activity levels, including hiking, sightseeing, wine tasting, and family outings. Accessibility, seasonal considerations, and logistical details like parking and amenities were also factored in, so you can plan confidently.
By combining these diverse sources and focusing on up-to-date, fact-based information, this guide aims to help you discover the most rewarding and practical day trips from Palm Springs.
Top Day Trips from Palm Springs, California
Southern California’s landscape is incredibly diverse, and Palm Springs is perfectly positioned to take advantage of it. Below, you’ll find ten outstanding day trip destinations, each offering a distinct experience within a reasonable drive from the city.
Joshua Tree National Park
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Joshua Tree National Park is approximately 40 miles from Palm Springs, with a typical drive time of 50 minutes via CA-62 East.
Key Attractions
This iconic national park is famous for its surreal Joshua trees, dramatic boulder formations, and vast desert vistas. Key sites include Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, Skull Rock, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. The park straddles two distinct desert ecosystems—the Mojave and the Colorado—offering a unique blend of flora and geology.
Things to Do
Hiking is a highlight, with trails ranging from easy walks like Hidden Valley to more challenging routes such as Ryan Mountain. Rock climbing and bouldering attract adventurers year-round. Stargazing is exceptional due to minimal light pollution, and guided ranger programs are often available. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives and picnic areas throughout the park.
Travel Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots fill quickly. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks, as services are limited inside the park. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, while summer can be extremely hot. Consider purchasing your park entrance pass online to save time at the gate.
Idyllwild
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Idyllwild is about 50 miles from Palm Springs, with a drive time of roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes via CA-74 West and CA-243 North.
Key Attractions
Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is a charming alpine village known for its artsy vibe, pine forests, and mountain scenery. The town features art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes, all surrounded by towering trees and granite peaks.
Things to Do
Popular activities include hiking the Devil’s Slide Trail, exploring the Idyllwild Nature Center, and browsing local art studios. Visitors often enjoy leisurely strolls through town, sampling homemade baked goods or relaxing at one of the many coffee shops. For those seeking adventure, nearby Humber Park offers several trailheads with panoramic views.
Travel Tips
Check weather conditions before you go, as mountain roads can be icy in winter. Parking in town is generally easy, but trailheads may be busy on weekends. Layered clothing is recommended, as temperatures can vary widely. Many shops are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.
Salton Sea
Driving Distance and Travel Time
The Salton Sea is located about 55 miles southeast of Palm Springs, with a drive time of approximately 1 hour via CA-111 South.
Key Attractions
California’s largest lake, the Salton Sea, is a fascinating and eerie destination. Key sites include the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, Bombay Beach, and the hauntingly artistic Salvation Mountain nearby. Birdwatching is a major draw, as the area is a critical stop on the Pacific Flyway.
Things to Do
Visitors can explore the shoreline, photograph abandoned resorts, and take in the unique art installations that dot the landscape. Salvation Mountain, a vibrant hillside painted with religious messages, is a must-see for art lovers. The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent opportunities for spotting migratory birds.
Travel Tips
Bring your own food and water; services are limited in the area. The best time to visit is in winter or early spring, as summer temperatures can be extreme and the lake’s odor intensifies with heat. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rugged, sometimes muddy terrain.
Palm Canyon in Indian Canyons
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Palm Canyon is just 7 miles from downtown Palm Springs, typically a 15-minute drive via South Palm Canyon Drive.
Key Attractions
Indian Canyons is home to the world’s largest California Fan Palm oasis. Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon offer lush scenery, seasonal streams, and ancient rock art. The area is managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Things to Do
Hiking is the main activity, with trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes through palm groves and rocky canyons. Guided walks are available, focusing on the area’s ecology and Cahuilla heritage. Picnic areas provide a relaxing spot to enjoy the scenery.
Travel Tips
There is an entrance fee, and the canyons may close during summer due to heat. Check the official schedule before visiting. Bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited on some trails. The area is popular on weekends, so consider arriving early.
Temecula Wine Country
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Temecula is approximately 70 miles southwest of Palm Springs, with a drive time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes via I-10 West and I-15 South.
Key Attractions
Temecula Valley is Southern California’s premier wine region, home to over 40 wineries set amid rolling vineyards. The Old Town district features historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, while hot air balloon rides provide sweeping views of the countryside.
Things to Do
Wine tasting is the main draw, with many wineries offering tours and scenic patios. Old Town Temecula invites exploration with its antique stores and lively farmers’ market. For a unique experience, consider booking a sunrise hot air balloon ride or joining a guided wine tour.
Travel Tips
Designate a driver or consider joining a day tour for safe wine tasting. Weekends can be busy, so make reservations if possible. Many wineries are family-friendly, but check policies in advance. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor tastings.
Mount San Jacinto State Park (via Palm Springs Aerial Tramway)
Driving Distance and Travel Time
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Valley Station is about 6 miles from downtown, a 15-minute drive. The tram itself ascends over 8,500 feet to the Mountain Station.
Key Attractions
Mount San Jacinto State Park features alpine forests, wildflower meadows, and panoramic vistas of the desert below. The tram ride is an attraction in itself, rotating as it climbs the rugged cliffs of Chino Canyon.
Things to Do
At the top, visitors can hike a network of trails, visit the natural history museum, or dine with a view at the mountaintop restaurant. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available in winter, while summer offers cool respite from desert heat.
Travel Tips
Tram tickets often sell out on weekends and holidays, so purchase in advance. Dress in layers—the temperature at the summit can be 30 degrees cooler than the desert floor. Parking is available at the Valley Station, but it can fill up quickly during peak times.
Lake Arrowhead
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Lake Arrowhead is about 85 miles northwest of Palm Springs, with a drive time of roughly 2 hours via I-10 West and CA-18 North.
Key Attractions
This picturesque mountain resort town is known for its sparkling lake, forested surroundings, and charming village center. Lake Arrowhead Village offers shops, restaurants, and lakeside strolls, while the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest provides ample outdoor recreation.
Things to Do
Popular activities include boat tours, lakeside dining, hiking, and shopping in the village. In winter, nearby Snow Valley Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding. Summer visitors enjoy kayaking, fishing, and scenic drives through the mountains.
Travel Tips
The lake itself is private, but boat tours are available to the public. Check road conditions in winter, as snow and ice are common. Weekends can be busy, so arrive early for parking. Consider packing a jacket, as mountain weather can change quickly.
Cabazon Dinosaurs and Desert Hills Premium Outlets
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Located about 20 miles west of Palm Springs, this destination is a 25-minute drive via I-10 West.
Key Attractions
The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a quirky roadside attraction featuring two massive dinosaur sculptures—Dinny and Mr. Rex. Nearby, Desert Hills Premium Outlets is one of Southern California’s largest outlet shopping centers, offering a wide range of designer and brand-name stores.
Things to Do
Families can tour the dinosaur museum, climb inside the T. rex, and snap fun photos. Shopping enthusiasts will find deals on fashion, accessories, and home goods at the outlets. Several casual dining options are available on-site.
Travel Tips
The dinosaur park charges admission for museum access, but outdoor photo ops are free. The outlets can be crowded on weekends, especially during major sales. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and plan for hot weather, as much of the area is outdoors.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is approximately 90 miles south of Palm Springs, with a drive time of about 2 hours via CA-86 South and Borrego Springs Road.
Key Attractions
As California’s largest state park, Anza-Borrego is famous for its wildflower blooms, dramatic badlands, and unique desert sculptures. Key sites include Borrego Palm Canyon, Font’s Point, and the Galleta Meadows metal sculptures scattered throughout the park.
Things to Do
Hiking, wildflower viewing (typically in late winter or spring), and photography are top activities. Visitors can drive the Borrego Palm Canyon Road, explore slot canyons, or hunt for the park’s famous metal sculptures. The visitor center offers exhibits on local geology and wildlife.
Travel Tips
Spring is the best time for wildflowers, but the park is beautiful year-round. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a full tank of gas, as services are limited. Cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Check weather conditions before hiking, and avoid slot canyons during rain.
Big Bear Lake
Driving Distance and Travel Time
Big Bear Lake is about 85 miles northwest of Palm Springs, with a drive time of 2 hours via CA-10 West, CA-210 West, and CA-330 North.
Key Attractions
This alpine lake town is a year-round playground, offering mountain scenery, water sports, and winter snow activities. The village area features shops, restaurants, and lakeside parks. Big Bear Mountain Resort is a major draw for skiers and snowboarders during winter.
Things to Do
In summer, visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Winter brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and the Big Bear Alpine Zoo are popular with families.
Travel Tips
Roads to Big Bear can be winding and steep; check for chain requirements in winter. Parking in the village is limited during peak times. Book activities or rentals in advance during busy seasons. Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and sun protection.
Trip Planning Tips
Planning a successful day trip from Palm Springs starts with a little preparation. First, consider the season—desert destinations can be dangerously hot in summer, while mountain areas may require snow gear in winter. Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out, especially for higher elevations like Idyllwild or Big Bear Lake.
Transportation is key. Most destinations are best reached by car, whether you’re using your own vehicle or a rental. For wine country or other experiences involving alcohol, consider booking a guided day tour with transportation included.
Packing essentials include plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), comfortable walking shoes, and layered clothing for changing temperatures. A small backpack is useful for carrying snacks, a camera, and any gear needed for hiking or outdoor activities.
Timing matters, too. Many popular spots fill up by mid-morning, especially on weekends or during peak seasons. Early starts help you avoid crowds and heat. If you’re planning to hike or visit parks, check opening hours and any seasonal closures in advance.
Recommended Resources
Several resources can make your day trip smoother and more enjoyable. Car rentals are widely available in Palm Springs, making it easy to reach destinations beyond the city. For those who prefer not to drive, look for organized day tours to popular spots like Joshua Tree or Temecula Wine Country.
Packing lightweight hiking gear, reusable water bottles, and sun protection is always a good idea. Travel apps can help with navigation, trail maps, and weather updates. Visitor centers at destinations like Joshua Tree, Anza-Borrego, and Mount San Jacinto offer maps, advice, and up-to-date information.
Consider bringing a portable phone charger and printed directions for areas with limited cell service. If you plan to shop or dine at popular outlets or villages, check for any reservation requirements or special events before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most comfortable months for day trips are October through April, when temperatures are milder and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. Summer can be extremely hot in the desert, but mountain destinations like Idyllwild and Big Bear Lake offer cooler escapes.
Most destinations on this list are best reached by car, as public transportation is limited or nonexistent for many outlying areas. Some guided tours offer transportation, particularly for Joshua Tree and Temecula.
Policies vary. Dogs are allowed in many areas of Joshua Tree National Park (on roads and campgrounds, but not on trails), and several mountain towns like Idyllwild are dog-friendly. Always check specific rules for each destination before you go.
Both destinations are generally safe for solo visitors, but it’s important to prepare. Bring plenty of water, let someone know your plans, and avoid remote areas after dark. Cell service can be unreliable in some locations.
Wildflower blooms typically peak between late February and early April, depending on rainfall. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Joshua Tree National Park are especially popular for wildflower viewing during this window.
Joshua Tree National Park is about a 50-minute drive from Palm Springs, making it very doable as a day trip. Many visitors spend a full day exploring the park’s main highlights and return to Palm Springs by evening.
The most popular and scenic route is via Highway 74 (the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway). This drive offers dramatic elevation changes, sweeping desert and mountain views, and several scenic pullouts along the way.
Yes, several companies offer guided day tours from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park, Temecula Wine Country, and other popular destinations. These tours often include transportation, guides, and sometimes meals or tastings.
The Salton Sea is a unique and somewhat surreal destination. Visitors often explore sites like Bombay Beach, Salvation Mountain, and the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge. Activities include photography, birdwatching, and viewing art installations, but swimming is not recommended due to water quality.
Absolutely. The tram ride itself takes about 10 minutes each way, and many visitors spend two to four hours at the top, enjoying short hikes, the views, and the visitor center. It’s easy to fit into a half-day itinerary.
Yes, Indian Canyons (especially Andreas Canyon) and the trails at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offer accessible, family-friendly hikes with beautiful scenery. Many of these trails are suitable for children and beginners.
During winter storms, snow chains or traction devices are often required on mountain roads to Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead. Always check current road and weather conditions before heading out, as requirements can change quickly.
Public transportation options are very limited for most day trips from Palm Springs. Some shuttle services exist for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, but a car or organized tour is usually necessary for destinations like Joshua Tree, Idyllwild, or Temecula.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.