Organizer

Joel Friedrick
Joel Friedrick
Phone
858-335-3270
Email
jgfriedrick@gmail.com

Since relocating from San Diego in early 2025, my wife and I have proudly called Palm Desert our full-time home. For over a quarter-century, we explored nearly every trail San Diego has to offer, whether on foot or by mountain bike. My journey began in Minneapolis and led me to the Navy for six years immediately following high school, followed by a long career in mechanical engineering. Yet, after all those miles, I can say with certainty: nothing compares to the beauty of Southern California.  

Location

Garstin Trailhead
Garstin Trailhead

Category

HIKE GROUP SAFETY

Date

Jan 30 2026

Time

8:30 AM

Labels

Moderate Hike,
Pace of Hike: Medium

GARSTIN LOOP

This is a loop hike that begins at the end of Barona Road (our parking place). We’ll hike to the top of Cahuilla Peak for an enchanting view of rolling hills, Palm Springs airport, and all of Palm Springs. 
 
The start of this hike is a little aggressive, gaining approximately 1000 feet of elevation in 1.5miles to Cahuilla Peak. Bighorn sheep have been spotted there. We’ll then proceed to pass former residences of Bob Hope, Suzanne Somers with her iconic swimming pool (you’ll understand when you see it) and the King of Cool: Steve McQueen.
 

Note: we will do some rock scrambling along the route (up and down). So wear good hiking footwear and bring poles if needed. Also, please bring at least 2L of water and a snack.

3.9 miles with elevation gain 1,109 ft. Hike limited to 10 participants.

We will meet on Barona road (see map below).  If it helps, the coordinates of the trailhead are: 33.77620191295342, -116.53109300510883 or you can search for Garstin Trailhead and it should come up. Be ready to start the hike at 08:30.

Email Joel (jgfriedrick@gmail.com) if you would like to participate and include information about your hiking experience. 

HIKE LEADER: Joel Friedrick
HIKE LOCATOR: Palm Springs, Garstin trailhead
HIKE DIFFICULTY: Moderate
HIKE PACE: Medium, about 2.3 mph
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club!   Join Now!