Hike the Indian Canyons of California

Most people think of Palm Springs, California as the playground of the rich and famous. But it's also home to the loveliest palm-filled canyons in the world.

I discovered this at Indian Canyons, owned by the Agua Caliente band of the Cahuilla Indians and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The centerpiece is Palm Canyon , featuring the world's largest oasis of California fan palms–more than 3,000 in all.

The 15-mile-long canyon includes several easy to moderate hiking trails, plus a trading post that sells Indian art and artifacts.

Nearby Andreas Canyon is a green paradise that includes 150 different plant species, mostly fan palms, with an easy 1/2-mile trail. Murray Canyon features a longer and more strenuous trail that ends at a waterfall called Seven Sisters.

Palm Springs is on State Highway 111, 12 miles south of I-10 and about 55 miles southeast of San Bernardino. To reach the canyons, head south from Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive to West Ramon Road and follow the signs. The canyons are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $6 for adults, $4.50 for students and $2 for children ages 6-12.

For details call 1-800-790-3398.