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Art Smith Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 143 Google reviews · Running trail in Palm Desert, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Art Smith Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Mountain paths winding through rocky terrain to scenic overlooks and cactus-lined views.
What runners say about Art Smith Trailhead
“For hikers seeking a serious workout, stunning scenery, and a chance to experience the quieter side of the desert, the trail from Art Smith Trailhead is an absolute must-do.”
“Great trail, big climb starting at Hwy 74, slightly technical single track, shade in early morning otherwise very exposed.”
“Very well marked and easy to follow.”
A very scenic trail that starts at the beginning of highway 74. It is very scenic the more you trek it. Not the easiest of the trails in the desert, however, one of the most beautiful ones, one that those that love hiking should take on! Make sure to take plenty of water with you as this is a long trail (~8 miles)
Just off the street headed towards Vista Point. It's a great place for a walk by yourself or with a friend. It stretches out pretty far. It's about an hour loop around the trail It can be hot at day so make sure to bring plenty of water. The walk up the trail should be fairly easy for most
My favorite hike. Counted 16 big horns at one point hanging out snacking with us. Dead Indian canyon is just so fun once you get to the bouldering at the oasis. The wash was beautiful, but don't wear sandles as the sand and rocks will get stuck in your shoes.
This is a great trail. Very well marked and easy to follow. We did 4 miles out and back. Would have loved to follow it all the way and see the oasis, but time wasn’t on our side. Great scenery of Palm Springs and we had a gorgeous day.
Trail conditions & character
“The walk takes you through cactus gardens, beautiful rock formations, and a former palm tree oasis (all the trees are dead).”
“Great trail, big climb starting at Hwy 74, slightly technical single track, shade in early morning otherwise very exposed.”
“The trail starts with a steady climb that will get your attention, but the effort is rewarded with incredible views over Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and the surrounding mountains.”
“For hikers seeking a serious workout, stunning scenery, and a chance to experience the quieter side of the desert, the trail from Art Smith Trailhead is an absolute must-do.”
“Great trail, big climb starting at Hwy 74, slightly technical single track, shade in early morning otherwise very exposed.”
“Once you reach the top things level out until you get to the split off for another trail.”
Plan your run at Art Smith Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitefs.usda.gov
- Phone(760) 862-9984
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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