Back to All Events

Art Smith Trail Interpretative Hike

  • Art Smith Trailhead CA-74 Palm Desert, CA, 92260 United States (map)

Our docents will take you on a guided hike through the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument! You will see excellent views of the Coachella Valley and learn the history of the area. You will see many unique desert plants and learn how they survive the long hot summers. There are lizards and animals on the trail including a chance to see the endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep with one of their newborn lambs.

The trail is about 2 feet wide with some cobble. The distance may be 3-4 miles with elevation gain of 500 to 850 feet. This hike is considered strenuous. Bring 2 liters of water, snacks, wear closed-toed shoes, a sun hat and sunscreen. Sorry, no dogs allowed.

RSVP is required and you must bring your ticket with you for check-in at 8:15 AM. Ticket reservations begin 14 days prior to the event. A suggested tax-deductible donation of $5.00 per person is appreciated and encouraged to support our volunteer programs. For more information contact the Visitor Center at 760-862-9984.

Please note: The Art Smith Trailhead parking lot is located just past the driveway for the Visitor Center approximately 100 feet on the southwest side of Highway 74. UTM coordinates: 33.667957, -116.407666