Organizer

Daniel Coleman
Daniel Coleman
Phone
(360) 481-1477
Email
teninopt@gmail.com

Daniel Coleman has been hiking on his own and with clubs in the Coachella Valley and nearby areas for over 10 years. He has participated in many hikes as sweep and enjoys mapping and tracking the hikes as well. Back home in Washington State, Dan hiked and camped over many years with family and friends in the deserts in Eastern Washington and in the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. As a serviceman in the Air Force, he enjoyed some hiking in the Phillipines, eastern France, Germany, and Austria. Dan's experience includes marine navigation and sailboat racing as well as search and rescue for the Olympia Harbor Patrol and the Civil Air Patrol. Dan retired from practice after 40 years as a physical therapist and enjoys leading hikes here in the desert. Dan has developed 7 hikes in and around Joshua Tree National Park during which he relates historical tales of adventure and misadventure at these sites. When you discover an old cabin or mine while hiking in the desert, it likely holds a story of adventure from the late 1800’s to early 1900’s. Join Dan on his hikes to hear what happened in seven of these different locations!

Location

Indio Badlands
Indio Badlands

Category

HIKE GROUP SAFETY

Date

Mar 21 2026

Time

Parking lot fills early; street parking available.
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Labels

Moderate Hike,
Pace of Hike: Casual,
Pace of Hike: Medium

INDIO HILLS BADLANDS w/ TREASURE HUNT

Lollipop trail that starts out on the level desert and transitions into canyons with beautiful rock formations. We’ll be doing this hike clockwise.  It climbs up gently to offer scenic views of the valley and the Salton Sea. Some slot canyons and dry waterfalls included and unique geological uplifts.  Bring plenty of water (at least 1.5 Liters), sunscreen, hat, and a snack.  Hiking poles and gloves suggested. 

  • Hikers will need to step up onto a few short dry waterfalls, so good knees help.  
  • There is one .25 mi section along a ridge line with drop offs on two sides.  If you don’t tolerate heights, probably not a good one for you.
  • Dog-friendly trail for friendly dogs; leash required.

5 Miles with Elevation gain 575 ft.

Limited to 14 hikers.

Please email Daniel to sign up for this hike. 

HIKE LEADERS: Daniel Coleman 

HIKE LOCATOR: Indio

HIKE DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Note: You must be a current CVHC  to hike with the club!   Join Now!