This 7.4 mile, shuttle hike offers a great aerobic workout while enjoying the beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, Santa Rosa Mountains, and Coachella Valley. A creek after the big uphill climb offers a refreshing break from the desert mountain trail conditions. The return trail follows high above the creek as it descends into Palm Canyon.
Everyone will gather for this shuttle-supported hike at 8:15 AM at the Trading Post inside Indian Canyons. Once gathered, several cars will be used to shuttle all hikers to the Murray Canyon parking lot where the hike will begin.
The Indian Canyons gate is located at the southern end of South Palm Canyon Drive. Admission is $12 per adult with a discounted senior (62+) price of $7; U.S. Military (active, reserve or retired) is free.
Our hike begins on the well maintained Coffman Trail with fairly modest grades. The West Fork North Trail is not well maintained and in one small area may require some exploration to find the trail. We’ll climb over 1,800 feet in just over 3 miles. After this climb, the trail gradually descends to a creek that may or may not allow a dry crossing. From there we connect with the West Fork Trail for the mostly downhill hike back to Palm Canyon and the Trading Post.
- Trail Length: 7.4 miles
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1800 feet
- Difficulty Rating: Strenuous. Good endurance is needed for the long, uphill climb on the West Fork North Trail segment; dexterity is needed for the creek crossing. If you cannot hike the South Lykken Trail end to end fairly easily, please do not sign up for this hike. Click here for more information.
Meeting Time and Location: 8:15 AM at Indian Canyons Trading Post (east end of parking lot). For directions click here.
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection and layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact (ICE) information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and long pants (due to spiked bushes trailside) are recommended. Dry socks and towel are reasonable precautions for the water crossing. Adequate drinking water IS required.
Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share.
Hike leader: Spencer; email click here
Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.
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
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike.
© 1981 - 2024 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policy
