One of the best ways to experience La Quinta California is by soaking in all of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you’re looking for some alone time, to get in touch with nature, or searching for a fun family activity, the hiking trails in La Quinta are sure to delight you! The area attracts countless outdoor lovers each year with its picturesque trails that are surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Hiking is one of the best things to do in La Quinta. Below, you’ll find essential information such as distance, elevation, and other trail information to help you prepare for your adventure.
Where To Stay In La Quinta
Vista Santa Fe
Vista Santa Fe is one of the best places in La Quinta to catch a sunset! Relax in the private pool in the backyard oasis as you take in the stunning mountain views and gorgeous technicolor sunsets. With comfortable bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and an extra large sofa for the entire group to gather around the fireplace or watch a movie, you’ll feel right at home.
Vista Santa Fe is within walking distance of hiking and biking trails and 1.5 miles to Old Town La Quinta for top-rated dining, shopping, and more! You can find out more about things to do in La Quinta here.
Check out Vista Sante Fe today!
Staying A Little Longer?
Navarro Sol
Escape to the warmth and sunshine of Navarro Sol! This two-bedroom, two-bathroom, private home is in beautiful La Quinta, California. Guests can relax in the recently renovated living spaces which are stylish and comfortable and give a nod to the home’s midcentury roots.
Navarro Sol is located in the picturesque La Quinta Cove neighborhood, close to hiking trails, dining and shopping in Old Town La Quinta, golf, tennis, and much more! Available for stays of 30+ nights. We look forward to hosting you!
Book Navaro Sol today!
Casa Colibri
For a month of rest and relaxation, you can’t beat Casa Colibri. Guests can enjoy the spacious 3 bedrooms, 3-bathroom well-maintained home. You’ll find all of the comforts of home, including a fully stocked kitchen and outdoor living areas.
Cross the street (literally) to hiking and biking trails for all skill levels – from paved walks to more strenuous hikes. Providing unobstructed views of the Santa Rosa mountains – many homes in the cove have views, but not like this!
Stay with us for a month and check out Casa Colibri today!
El Chaparral
Want to stay in a house with a story? Arrivls El Chaparral is rich in history and jazz culture. True to its roots, the house still retains a relaxed & soulful feel but has been equipped with modern comforts and amenities to make it the perfect home-away-from-home.
El Chaparral is a two-structure property consisting of a 3 bedroom, 3-bathroom home, plus a one-bedroom casita with a full bathroom, kitchen, living room, and dining room. Sitting on an oversized corner lot, guests will have exclusive access to the main house, the casita, and the lush private backyard with a large pool.
Guests can relax in the warm and casually curated living spaces, cook and enjoy meals in the bright kitchen and relax in the spacious and comfortable bedrooms. The beautifully landscaped backyard with a large and deep swimming pool, picnic-style dining set, bbq, and mature fruit trees is perfect for your month-long stay.
*El Chaparral is currently available for monthly stays. Please inquire for more details.
The Best Hikes In La Quinta
Lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and don’t forget to bring plenty of water, let’s talk about the best hiking trails in La Quinta!
La Quinta Cove To Lake Cahuilla Trail
- Rating: Moderate Difficulty
- Distance: 6.6 Miles
- Elevation: 519 ft
The La Quinta Cove To Lake Cahuilla Trail is one of the most popular trails in La Quinta. This spectacular moderate hike runs through the PGA West Golf Course and ends at beautiful Lake Cahuilla. This hike features wildflowers and offers activities such as mountain biking trails and the gorgeous Lake Cahuilla where you can enjoy the view. The trail takes around 2 hours to complete, and you can use this map to help plan your trek.
Bear Creek Canyon Trail
- Rating: Difficult
- Distance: 8.3 Miles
- Elevation: 2,319
The Bear Creek Canyon Trail is one of La Quinta Cove’s most scenic and rewarding day hikes and is open to hikers of all skill levels. The 8.3-mile distance isn’t particularly challenging for experienced hikers, but the elevation gain and steepness of the trail make it difficult. Hikers will need to prepare for an elevation gain throughout the hike before they reach Hidden Palms Oasis. The terrain changes from loose granite scree (small loose stones) on some hilly parts to packed gravel and sand, particularly in the cove park.
You’ll want to pack sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water for this one.
East Cove Trail
- Rating: Easy
- Distance: 2.1 Miles
- Elevation: 183 ft
The East Cove Trailhead is a 2.1-mile loop that’s perfect for hikers of all skill levels. The trail is a popular destination for walking, hiking, and trail running. Bring your furry friends, because dogs are allowed on the trail. Keep in mind that they must be on a leash at all times.
This trail is ideal for families looking for a short trek as it features a short distance, safe terrain, and only two easy elevation changes. You’ll be able to soak in plenty of gorgeous views throughout your journey, so make sure to bring your camera! There’s also a covered rest area at the midpoint mark.
Boo Hoff Trail
- Rating: Difficult
- Distance: 12.8 Miles
- Elevation: 2,290 ft
The 12.8-mile Boo Hoff Trail is close to La Quinta. During the warmer months, it’s a good idea to start early on this trail. There is very little to no shade, in fact, the best months to hike this trail are from September to May.
The difficult rating of Boo Hoff means that inexperienced hikers need to be careful. There are single-track trails close to cacti and sharp turns over cliffs. Most sections are made of packed sand and a few rocky paths.
La Quinta Cove
- Rating: Easy
- Distance: 3.6 Miles
- Elevation: 390 ft
The La Quinta Cove trail is a beautiful out-and-back trail that is great for all ages and skill levels. The trail features fairly even terrain with some rolling hills. Hikers can spot an array of desert plants along with roadrunners, reptiles, and a variety of birds, so keep your eyes open!
The trail provides access to other trails for hikers looking to extend their adventure. You can take the Bear Creek Trail (mentioned above) to get to the top of the cove to access other trails. This includes the La Quinta Cove to Lake Cahuilla Trail, which combines desert hiking with captivating views of Lake Cahuilla, the mountains, and a golf course (mentioned above).
Cove Trail To Quarry Overlook Trail
- Rating: Moderate Difficulty
- Distance: 2.8 Miles
- Elevation: 620 ft
Hikers looking for a relatively easy and short hike that offers amazing scenery should head to the Cove Trail to Quarry Overlook Trail. The trail takes hikers to a spectacular overlook near the peak, which offers sweeping views of Coachella, Indio, and Thermal. If you want a little more after you reach the peak, you can head past the overlook towards Lake Cahuilla to extend the hike.
Tips For Hiking In La Quinta
- Bring plenty of water – a good rule of thumb- once half your water supply is gone, turn around
- Don’t hike during the hottest times of the day (mid-day) particularly during Summer when triple-digit heat can set in quickly
- Wear light and breathable clothing to hike in La Quinta
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and SPF and lip balm
- Make sure to stay on trail
No matter what La Quinta trail you choose to hike, you’ll love coming home and relaxing at your Arrivls vacation rental. Put up your tired feet and relax in the cozy living spaces or enjoy a fire outside, either way, relax and reflect on the adventures of the day.
Looking for more to do in La Quinta? Check out…
Unique Cool Weather Activities In La Quinta
How To Spend The Perfect Day In La Quinta
Frequently Asked Questions: La Quinta
