Hiking in Indian Canyons

We have heard so much about Indian Canyons, and the great hikes there, that we decided to see for ourselves.

It is on the outskirts of Palm Springs, so the location is very convenient.

We were a little surprised that the entrance fee was $9.00 each, but we also know that it costs money to keep things well maintained.

The most popular hike seems to be the Andreas Canyon Loop.

This is a very easy hike, and Teresa and I felt a little out of place with our hiking boots, hiking shirts, hiking poles and fanny packs, when little children and teenagers were walking around in flip-flops!!

It was around 10 AM when we started this hike, and with a light cloud cover, the heat was not a problem.

The beauty of this place is that here you are in the middle of the desert, and all of a sudden, you are in an oasis of running water and gorgeous palm trees.

Although this trail is well used, it is in pristine condition, with no litter to be seen.  We appreciated that.

In fact, there was some kind of reverence to this place, and when people did talk, it was in a kind of whisper.

It was so shady and cool in some places, that we did not want to leave.  The crystal clear water looked like you could just bend over and take a drink.

It took us about an hour to complete this loop, but that was with many stops for photos.  I am sure if we never stopped, it would have been about half an hour.

When we completed the loop, we stopped for lunch at one of the many picnic tables they provide.

Teresa packed a healthy snack of peanut butter and jam sandwiches, cut up apples, and trail mix.

As we drove to the next parking area, we immediately noticed how much hotter it was.

We brought along plenty of water, so we thought it would not be too uncomfortable.

Our second hike was the Palm Canyon hike, and this trail is 15 miles.  Don't worry, we knew we would be turning around long before that point !

As we started out on this hike, we noticed how red everyone's faces were as they were coming off this trail.  Not a good sign !

Oh boy, was it ever getting hot.  We were going through a lot of water, and we were sweating it out just as fast.

It wasn't so bad in the shelter of the palms, but there were many stretches where you were in the mercy of the sun.

After about an hour, we joyously reluctantly turned around, and headed back.

Of course, the solution to this problem, is to get up early and hit the trails in the cool morning.

Anyone who knows us is still laughing at that prospect !!