Our Native American ancestors referred to the area surrounding what is now called Palm Springs as “the magic valley.” What continues to make it magic is a unique combination of three major geologic features:
The valley is surrounded by 4 mountain ranges including the 2 highest mountain peaks in southern California.
Under the desert floor is the 2nd largest underground aquifer in the United States, providing water to the entire valley.
Running up the valley is the San Andreas Fault, probably the most famous and visible earthquake fault in the world, stretching 700 miles from the Mexican border to just north of San Francisco.
There is no better place to explore the impact of these geologic features than at the Coachella Valley Preserve, located 15 miles east of Palm Springs.
There are other oasis tours, but I don’t think any other hike provides the opportunity, in 2-2½ hours, to explore the rich diversity of 2 different desert oases, a close-up look at the San Andreas Fault, the unique eco-environment of a desert wash and a walk up a “living” sand dune to an impressive scenic overlook. And would you believe that this amazing area was purchased in 1905 by a cattle rancher seeking water for his animals for 2 mules and a wagon.
My tours are small (limited to no more than 6 people), personalized, and reflect my personal interests and passion. Honestly, I’m not big on plant life, but I know a lot about earthquake faults and oases.
Tour Highlights:
Thousand Palms Oasis – One of the largest groves of desert fan palms in California. Some of the trees may be over 150 years old.
San Andreas Fault – Walk on the fault, see the impact of the fault, and learn why earthquakes are necessary.
Desert Wash – A unique desert environment created by rain run-off from the surrounding mountains and home for many plants that require more water than those on the typical desert floor.
McCallum Pond and Oasis – Created by water seeping up through the San Andreas Fault from the underground aquifer. This pond is home to the endangered Desert Pupfish.
Living Sand Dunes – Wind creates these amazing sand dunes which will eventually cover over the McCallum Pond and Oasis. Home to the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard.
Vista Point – One can see the 4 mountain ranges surrounding and protecting “the magic valley,” a unique environment and home to over 500 species of native plants, 200 species of birds, 25 different species of reptiles and over 30 species of mammals.
This easy hike is mostly on sand packed established trails. A portion of the hike is on a board walk over Thousand Palms Oasis, and also includes a short climb up a “living” sand dune (kind of like walking uphill on a beach). The hike is geared for active adults who are comfortable hiking an easy, mostly flat, 2 miles. Wear comfortable walking shoes that may get a bit wet in the oasis areas, and I suggest you bring a hat, water, a camera and maybe sunscreen.
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