This 8mi extended almost-a-loop hike is for those looking for a distance and terrain challenge!
Starting at the Thousand Palms Preserve trailhead, we will be traveling through the Coachella Valley Preserve, experiencing the Thousand Palms Oasis and Simone Pond (if open at the time), Moon Valley landscapes, a moderate and high altitude elevation gain via Herman's Hike trail, dramatic descents through a beautiful canyon wash in the Valley, and the Willis Palms grove via the Willis Palms trail.
Our route will take us through freshwater aquatic/wetland, desert sand dunes, palm woodland oases, desert washes, desert scrub, and desert riparian environments. There will also be an short optional add-on hike at the end from the Thousand Palms Oasis Visitor Center (currently closed) to the top of Múmawet nearby.
Note: this is a shuttle hike ending at a different location (Willis Palms trailhead) from where we start (1000 Palms Oasis Trailhead). While it is only 1.5mi between them, walking the road is not encouraged; with very narrow shoulders and very fast cars, this stretch is not safe for pedestrians.
Description:
- Meeting place: PetSmart, 5601 Ramon Rd, Cathedral City (MAP)
- Trail length: 8.0mi
- Elevation gain/loss: 1,200ft
- Difficulty rating: moderately strenuous
- Trip type: shuttle (starts and ends at different trailheads)
- Hiking time: 5.5hrs
- Type: trail
- Trail route: McCallum trail from Thousand Palms Oasis to Moon Country trail to Herman's Hike to Willis Palms Loop (wash branch) to Willis Palms trailhead.
- Terrain: begins in a flat(ish) wash, traversing low altitude hills then high mountain peak (1,200ft), descending somewhat steeply into the wash canyon to Willis Palms Oasis and the relatively flat sandy wash to trailhead.
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (3+ liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Wind protection is also strongly recommended along with something to secure hats to heads (lanyard, velcro, glue, duct tape, etc.), it can be very windy when crossing from Moon to Willis valleys. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition and able to negotiate steeper uphill sections and at times sketchy trail quality for this hike. Click here for more information.
Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike.
Please notify the hike leader you cannot make a hike for which you have registered, there may be a waitlist. Remember to be punctual at the meeting place or you will be left behind. You can cancel directly from your registration record or send an email to the hike leader.
Contact hike leader: Thomas W. email
Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather and/or high winds cancels.
Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Pets allowed? No.
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