Fern Canyon Loop starts at the Trading Post located in Indian Canyons on the south side of Palm Springs. What makes this trail unique is the generous growth of maidenhair ferns found in Fern Canyon the oasis. The maidenhair fern is unique in that its fronds have the ability to shed water without becoming wet. As growth depends on water weeping from the rock wall, they may only be seen in the spring if there has been sufficient rain. What won’t be dependent on the rain are the views. The hike offers great views of the South Palm Canyon as well as good vistas of Palm Springs and the nearby San Jacinto Mountains.
- Trail Length: 6 miles
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 951 feet
- Difficulty Rating: moderate; strenuous in sections
- Trail Type: loop.
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Departure Time: 8:15 AM
- Meeting Location: Trading Post parking lot. Follow the signs to the “Additional Parking” area.
- Fees/Charges: Admission is $12 for adults; $7 for seniors 62+; $6 for children; and free for military (with US military ID). Day hike tickets are purchased at the gate located at 38520 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Strings, CA. The gate open at 8:00 am.
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch, snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
Hiking Requirements: The majority of the hike will be under moderate conditions, but there are two sections that are rated as strenuous. Together with the elevation gain, participants will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Carpooling: As we will be meeting at the Trading Post parking area, carpooling will need to be arranged individually.
Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered, please cancel on the website as others may be on the waitlist. If you need to cancel within 24-48 hours before the hike, please notify the hike leader of your cancellation directly.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Contact hike leader: Beth Schneider Email click here. Co-Leader: Richard Ronzello
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
