Winter hikes in Southern California are some of our favorite trails to explore as there is a small window to enjoy them while the temperatures are cooler and the afternoon sun isn’t nearly as blistering as the other seasons. When you’re seeking a date with nature, you might want to head out on this easy desert trail that will be a delight to experience the rest of the season.

Nestled inside the SoCal desert only a five-minute drive from Palm Springs, you'll find a splendid hike that's perfect to explore during the cooler temperatures of the winter season.
tripadvisor/gentlesol
Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail, located at 500 W Mesquite Avenue, is where you'll want to head for this scenic two-mile hike.
GoogleMaps
Although Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail is easy enough for most everyone to navigate, it still provides plenty of twists and turns to keep a more experienced hiker on his or her toes.
flickr/David Lofink
The winter season is the perfect time to trek out on this scenic hike when the desert temperatures are nice and mild. Although you won't find the scorching heat of summer during the winter months, you'll still want to pack plenty of water and plan accordingly for hydration.
As you explore the trail, you'll be in awe of the wide-open scenery. But beware, as there is not a lot of shade or coverage overhead so you'll want to come prepared with sunscreen. Lots and lots of sunscreen.
AllTrails/Damian Walch

Related Stories

11 Picturesque Trails In Southern California That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking

11 Picturesque Trails In Southern California That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking

 The Little-Known Ghost Town In Southern California You Can Only Reach By Hiking This 7.5-Mile Trail

The Little-Known Ghost Town In Southern California You Can Only Reach By Hiking This 7.5-Mile Trail

 Surrounded By Nature Trails, Hiking Is A Way Of Life In The Small Town Of Forest Falls, Southern California

Surrounded By Nature Trails, Hiking Is A Way Of Life In The Small Town Of Forest Falls, Southern California
In addition to sunscreen, make sure to bring some sturdy shoes as you'll be navigating through a wide variety of terrain including uneven steps along the trail.
flickr/cobber99
One of our favorite parts of the hike is the rocky pathway that looks cobbled together like a unique work of art. It's one of the many treasures to enjoy along this trail.
AllTrails/hajime ando
You may be shocked to find water out here. Out here in the desert, you'll find plenty of surprises at every turn.
tripadvisor/wakndhart
You'll even find a picnic table along the trail that looks out across the canyon. This may very well be the most perfect spot for a picnic in all of SoCal.
AllTrails/joachim garraud
But one of the best surprises of all will be encountered at the end of the Tahquitz Canyon Trail -- this beautiful waterfall just waiting to greet you. After hiking through the desert, this sure is a welcome sight to see.
tripadvisor/guyoftheglobe

Have you ever hiked Tahquitz Canyon Trail? What a beautiful place to spend an afternoon outdoors in nature in SoCal!

If you enjoy new hiking destinations in our region of the Golden State with a variety of scenery, you may also want to check out this spooky trail in Southern California that will lead you somewhere deserted.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Winter Hikes In Southern California

Marisa Roman | December 23, 2021

Should I go hiking in winter in Southern California?

It’s not every day that you find a canyon hike in Southern California, but the above-mentioned trail is about as good as it gets. But there are still plenty of other hikes that are worth checking out, especially during the winter months. Winter hiking in Southern California offers an entirely new way to see the area, especially when blanketed in freshly fallen snow. Big Bear Lake away offers some of the most exceptional cold-weather hiking in Southern California, just make sure you bundle up! Check out these 11 picturesque trails in SoCal, perfect for winter hiking.

What was the biggest snowfall in Southern California?

While snowfall doesn’t happen as frequently in SoCal as in NorCal, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t occur at all. In fact, one of the rarest occasions for snowfall in SoCal took place in January 1932 which even hit the coast! But also, snowfall was also documented in Los Angeles in 1882 and even recorded in San Diego, which is quite rare. While SoCal might not get as much snow as other parts of the country, it sure gets its fair share of sunshine, instead!

Are there any good campgrounds for winter camping in Southern California?

Looking for some unique things to do in the winter in Southern California that doesn’t involve snow? How about finding the perfect campground? Pitch a tent at Jumbo Rocks Campground in Joshua Tree National Park for the ultimate winter camping experience. The desert campsite will allow you to soak up the sunshine while also enjoying the chilly temps. Sleep surrounded by boulders and cacti, with over 120 campsites available to rent. In the wintertime, you will need to reserve a spot in advance, however. This is one of the most relaxing winter outdoor activities in Southern California.

Related Articles

Explore Southern California

Featured Addresses
Tahquitz Canyon, California, USA