Friends of the Desert Mountains is proud to present, “Thursday and Saturday Morning Hikes,” a program providing exciting, early-morning guided hikes to accommodate the valley’s community of outdoor enthusiasts. To take advantage of the cool early-morning temperatures, the hikes will begin at 9:00 am.

When: Every Thursday and Saturday morning through April 2010. Arrive by 9:00 am for departure by 9:15 am.

Who: Hikers, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Beginners welcome!

Where: Meet at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, located in south Palm Desert on Highway 74, four miles south of Highway 111.
Address: 51500 Hwy. 74, Palm Desert
For a map to the Visitor Center: Click Here.

Cost: FREE!* No reservation required, just show up on time. *Donations are accepted and appreciated.

Length of hikes: One to two hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate hikes, lead by an experienced guide.

Hike locations: Hikes in the National Monument will explore a rotation of several trails, including the Art Smith, Hopalong Cassidy and Randall Henderson Trails. Destinations will also include Cactus Spring and Sawmill Trail, as well as Carrizo and Dead Indian Canyons.

What to wear and bring: Participants should be mindful to wear appropriate footwear and sun protection, and bring plenty of drinking water.

More information: For an informational one page PDF document about our Morning Hikes program: click here

Talk to a live person: To assist with the program or to get more information, call or email the Friends of the Desert Mountains/National Monument Visitor Center.
Telephone: (760) 862-9084 e-mail: friends@saveourmountains.org