Organizer
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Carole and Tim Atkinson
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Phone
403-606-9277 -
Email
caroleatkinson@shaw.ca -
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
Indio Hills Badlands
Come on this moderate hike to enjoy Indio’s wonderland of rocks! Starting from the parking area at the intersection of Avenue 42 and Golf Center Parkway in Indio, we will cross a sandy ‘no man’s land’ where OHV drivers cavort until we reach the surrealist’s dream that is the Indio Hills. These stone hills have been shaped over the millenia into graceful curves and passageways, providing us with something new and surprising around every turn. Tim is happy to explain the geological features and/or give a brief overview of the geology of this region.
The trail loops through the hills and includes a few spots where we will need to step up ~3 feet. Most of the trail is a combination of rock (gritty, not slick rock) and sand. The loop will take us back to where we entered the hills and from there we return to the parking area to finish the trail.
The hike is a touch over 5 miles long with numerous ups and downs resulting in a total elevation gain of 784 feet. Along the way we will have sweeping views of the Valley and the Salton Sea.
As usual, there is very little shade and the hills experience a lot of wind. Bring plenty of water, dress for sun exposure and have snacks handy to keep your energy up. Poles are helpful on the ridge and the descent.
- Map here: https://caltopo.com/m/R9RL1
- Altitude gain: 508 feet (25′ to 583′)
- Cumulative altitude gain: 784 feet
- Distance: 5.13 miles
- Pace: 2.0 MPH, ~3 hours
- Terrain: Slightly varied, deep sand, short climbs, some slick rock, switchbacks
- Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plant debris, high steps up
- Difficulty rating: Strenuous
Please email Carole to sign up for this hike and include your phone number. If you haven’t hiked with Carole before, she may ask you about your hiking experience to help assure your safety and the comfort and safety of the group as a whole.
- HIKE LEADER: Carole and Tim Atkinson
- HIKE LOCATOR: Indio Hills Badlands parking lot, 42000 Golf Center Pkwy, Indio
- HIKE DATE/TIME: November 18, 2025 at 8:30 AM
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club! Join Now!