Palm Canyon, Borrego Springs CA

• 4-star hikes
• 3 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 460 to 490 feet
• Borrego Springs, CA | San Diego Region
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The image showcases a tall palm tree standing prominently in the foreground against a backdrop of rugged, sunlit mountains. The sky is clear and blue, with the moon visible in the upper part of the image. The shadows cast by the mountains add depth and texture to the scene.

Green palm trees contrast the arid Anza Borrego desert.

The Palm Canyon Trail in Anza Borrego Desert State Park offers hikers a 3-mile round trip through scenic desert landscape to a rare palm oasis. The mostly easy trail leads to a grove of California fan palms. These palms, with their broad fan-shaped fronds and thick fibrous trunks, create a microclimate that supports a variety of plant and animal life. Bighorn sheep occasionally visit the canyon to drink, and bees and hummingbirds are drawn in by the many wildflower blooms.

Despite the canyon's typically dry appearance, 22 square miles of mountain terrain drains through it. Water that feeds the palms often flows visibly during winter and spring, creating a stream that may disappear underground during drier periods but continues to sustain the palm grove. Flash floods are also a common occurrence, particularly during the monsoon season of July and August, reshaping the canyon floor, redistributing boulders and vegetation while replenishing the underground water supplies that sustain the palm oasis.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Loop Trail 3.0 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 490 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Out-and-Back Trail 2.8 mi out & back, easy, gain 460 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ CA State Park fee

The main out-and-back trail to the oasis follows a relatively flat and easy route along the canyon floor, though some rocky sections appear as hikers approach the canyon's end. We prefer a looping route that proceeds clockwise from the trailhead, offering a slightly more challenging rocky route on an with elevated path that provides better views. GPS tracking can be useful to help you stay on either of these trails as signage in the area is often lacking. When the trail crosses a wash be sure to remain on the narrow trail, and avoid walking along the wider stream bed.

If you'd like to learn more about the canyon, numbered markers are spaced along the trail which can be interpreted by a printed pamphlet that you can pick up at the trailhead. The markers identify significant plants, historical points, and gelological and geographical features of the canyon.

In the image, a group of four hikers is trekking along a rugged, desert-like trail. Each hiker is equipped with a backpack and a hat to shield themselves from the sun. The trail is surrounded by dry vegetation, rocks, and steep mountainous terrain in the background. The clear blue sky enhances the scene, highlighting the sense of adventure and exploration in this arid environment.

Canyon bound on the out-and-back trail.

Though the temperature in the palm grove can be notably cooler than the surrounding desert, morning visits are still recommended. Providing not only cooler temperatures, but offering better lighting for photography and an increased chance of wildlife sightings.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Please stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt & electrolite tablets.

The image presents a sweeping view of a desert landscape flanked by mountains on both sides. The bright sun shines in a clear blue sky, illuminating the arid terrain below. The expansive valley stretches out into the distance, with a hazy horizon and far-off mountain ranges visible.

Looking back out of the canyon to the flat desert.

The image shows a desert landscape with a cluster of palm trees in the foreground, surrounded by various desert vegetation. The background features rocky, arid mountains under a clear blue sky. This scene is interesting as it highlights the contrast between the lush greenery of the palm trees and the barren, rocky terrain of the desert mountains. The presence of palm trees suggests an oasis or a water source in an otherwise dry environment.

The green palm oasis deep in the canyon.

Tangents:
• Official: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
• AllTrails Public: Borrego Palm Canyon
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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