Indio: Great Parks Galore

Nestled into the Coachella Valley, Indio has long been an attraction to golfers and tennis players, but did you about its great state and national parks? If you’re interested in doing some interesting hiking in the Southern California sunshine, then you should consider a trip to Indio. Here is a list and a brief description of the some of the area’s terrific parks.

Salton Sea State Recreation Area — Known to be one of the largest inland seas, this 360 square-mile basin was created by accident in 1905 when the Colorado River flooded and rushed downhill into the Salton Trough. It’s a terrific place for boating, fishing and water-skiing.

Joshua Tree National Park — While this appears to be a desert park, upon further investigation you will find a variety of plants and animals make Joshua Tree their home. You will find many interesting geologic features here and the dark night skies make it great for star gazing.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — The largest state park in California, this natural wonderland features gorgeous vistas, palm groves, wildflowers and native cacti. Hike the many trails and you may spot roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, mule deer, bighorn sheep, iguanas, chuckwallas and red diamond rattlesnakes. In addition to the hiking trails there are more than 500 miles of dirt roads and 12 wilderness areas.

Indio Hills Palms State Park — Hike the trails of this state park’s canyons and you will discover and inordinate number of native California palms. You find many varieties including Hidden, Pushawalla, Briska, Macomber and Horseshoe palms.

Mount San Jacinto State Park — Standing at 10,804 feet above sea level, Mount San Jacinto is the second highest point in Southern California. The mountain features magnificent granite peaks, forests and fern-bordered mountain meadows that are great for exploring. A high-country trek here is invigorating and scenic.