Blind Canyon Trail Sits in the Sand to Snow National Monument
Some of the trail can be rocky and require a little rock scrambling.
Day hikers can enjoy great views of Mt. San Jacinto and the northern Coachella Valley on the Blind Canyon Trail.
The 3.9-mile loop sits in the Sand to Snow National Monument next to Desert Hot Springs. It’s best-done October through April.
To reach the trailhead, from Interstate 10, exit north onto North Indian Canyon Drive. Turn right/east onto Mission Lakes Boulevard in Desert Hot Springs then left/northeast onto Santa Cruz Road. A small, paved parking area sits where the road ends and meets Calle De Begiuos.
From the lot, head northeast up the wash toward Blind Canyon. In about 300 feet, a wash joins from the northwest. Go left onto it to take the trail clockwise.
The opening mile of the trail can be challenging, as it is unmarked with a number of branching trails. Be sure to bring a topo map and compass so you stay on the main route.
About a half-mile in, the trail veers right/west then around 0.9 miles jogs right/north. It gradually ascends a ridge dotted with creosote bushes brittlebush. You’ll gain about 820 feet in elevation.
Mt. San Gorgonio rises to the trail’s northwest.
At about 2 miles, you’ll reach the trail’s summit. An impressive 360-degree view awaits at 2297 feet above sea level. Looking south, Desert Hot Springs is in the foreground with Palm Springs, the windmill farm, and Mt. San Jacinto in the distance. Mount San Gorgonio is to the northwest. The canyons and ridges of the Little San Bernardinos stretch in all other directions.
After taking in the sights, you’ll begin the descent, though there are plenty of steep ups and downs along the way. Some spots have loose rock and dirt and even require rock scrambles. Be sure to wear your hiking boots.
Upon entering Blind Canyon, go right/southwest onto it. At a slot canyon along the way, there is a 6-foot drop, but it’s not perfectly vertical so can be ascended; use caution navigating down it.
There is no shade, though shadows from the foothills are common during the early morning and in the winter months. Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail.
Photo caption above: The Blind Canyon Trail summit offers great views of Mount San Jacinto and the northern Coachella Valley.
Image Sources
- 02 Some of the trail can be rocky and require a little rock scrambling.: Rob Bignell
- Mt. San Gorgonio rises to the trail’s northwest.: Rob Bignell
- The Blind Canyon Trail summit offers great views of Mount San Jacinto and the northern Coachella Valley.: Rob Bignell
