Palm Springs, Palm Springs, CA

## Overview Tucked away at the base of the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, this natural hot spring sits beneath a canopy of native California fan palms — the very palms that gave Palm Springs its name. Water emerges from a copper pipe at a reported temperature of approximately 100°F (38°C), fed by the geothermal activity along the San Andreas Fault system that runs through the Coachella Valley. The area's hot mineral springs have been valued for centuries; the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, whose reservation encompasses much of Palm Springs, historically used these thermal waters for bathing and healing. The spring's setting at the foot of the rugged San Jacinto Mountains makes for a striking desert oasis experience. Please note that while the water flows from a natural geothermal source, its potability has not been independently verified. Visitors have historically used the spring for soaking rather than drinking. ## Directions 1. **From Highway 111 (Palm Canyon Drive):** Head north on N Palm Canyon Drive toward the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The tramway entrance is at 1 Tramway Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262. 2. **Parking:** Do **not** drive up to the tramway station and attempt to walk down — security will stop you. Instead, park at the Carl's Jr. plaza located at approximately 2500 North Palm Canyon Drive. 3. **The Hike:** From the plaza, walk uphill along Tramway Road toward the tramway base station. The hike is roughly 2 miles. 4. **Finding the Spring:** After hiking up, look for an old, unmaintained dirt track branching off to the **left** side of the road. Follow this track on foot for approximately 15 minutes. The trail leads to the hot spring, which is sheltered beneath a grove of native palm trees. **Note:** The dirt track has reportedly not been in regular use for many years, so expect overgrown or uneven terrain. Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water — desert temperatures can be extreme, especially in summer. ## What to Expect The spring itself is a modest but charming desert oasis. Water flows from a copper pipe at a reported temperature of around 100°F, making it warm enough for a comfortable soak. The surrounding grove of native fan palms provides welcome shade against the desert sun, and the backdrop of the towering San Jacinto Mountains is dramatic. The roughly 2-mile uphill hike from the Carl's Jr. plaza is exposed to full sun with little shade, so plan accordingly — early morning or late afternoon visits are advisable during warmer months. The unmaintained dirt track to the spring may be difficult to spot; look carefully on the left side of the road as you approach the tramway base area. There are no facilities at the spring — no restrooms, trash cans, or signage. Pack out everything you bring in. Cell service may be limited in the canyon. The area is within the traditional lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, so please be respectful of the cultural and natural landscape.