Organizer
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Carole and Tim Atkinson
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Phone
403-606-9277 -
Carole and Tim Atkinson are seasonal residents in wonderful Palm Desert. They spend the summer months in Calgary, Alberta where hiking the Rocky Mountains is a favorite activity. They are a retired geophysicist and geologist ……..and eager to expand their knowledge of flora and fauna in the desert. They’ve been leading hikes for over 20 years. When not exploring trails, they can be found golfing, biking, playing pickleball and enjoying the local music scene.
Location
- 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276
Category
PUSHAWALLA PALMS/HIDDEN PALMS LOOP
Located in the Coachella Valley Preserve, smack on the San Andreas Fault, this moderate loop trail leads up a rugged 700 feet to a ridge line trek with spectacular 360-degree views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The rocky descent heads into an improbable palm grove oasis — the only shade you’ll find on this hike and a refreshing spot to stop, hydrate, and chill while listening to the breeze ruffle the palm fronds and watching the lizards and other critters scurry around. The Pushawalla Palms grove is fed by water that has risen to the surface through cracks in the fault. On the way back, we will hike through Hidden Palms, full of thick growth fan palms. The trail is a mix of hard-packed sand and loose sand. The hike along the ridge features a steep incline and has some narrow ridge spots.
This trail has a lot of sun exposure. Bring lots of water, sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat.
Meeting Place:
Pushawalla Palms Trailhead
Thousand Palms Canyon Rd., Desert Hot Springs
Parking lot on the right, going north, before you get to the Coachella Valley Preserve Visitor Center.
Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 882 feet
Pace: 2 -2.5 miles per hour (moderate)
Please call or text Carole to request participation in this hike.
HIKE LEADERS: Carole and Tim Atkinson
HIKE LOCATOR: Coachella Valley Preserve
HIKE DIFFICULTY: Moderate
HIKE PACE: Medium
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club! Join Now!