Named for the preservationist and longtime trail boss of the Desert Riders Equestrian Club, the Art Smith Trail winds through magnificent rock formations and lush palm oases, with few signs of development. The strenuous, 16.2-mile trail gains 3,700 feet in elevation, beginning in Palm Desert and leading as far as Dunn Road, where some hikers descend on Cathedral Canyon Trail in Cathedral City. On a clear day, sightlines stretch to the Little San Bernardino Mountains and Joshua Tree National Park. Access the trail from the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center off Highway 74.
Hike of the Month: Art Smith Trail
This scenic 16.2-mile route through rugged rock formations and palm oases offers hikers panoramic desert and mountain views.
Art Smith Trail.
Photo by linda chavous
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