Big Morongo Canyon Preserve

If you are just starting to hike or just back to Sun City and need a beginner hike to get your desert legs back, this hike is for you. The hike begins in a lush riparian oasis at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a spectacular landscape of cottonwoods, willows, cattails, and other riparian species. This spectacular hike roams through a valley, a canyon and a marsh-–all in just a couple of miles of easy walking via boardwalk and hard packed trail. The trailhead is at 2,500 feet, so temperatures will be slightly cooler than the Sun City area. Plants, wildlife and over 30 varieties of birds now inhabit the protected areas of this preserve. Bring your camera and binoculars. Hiking shoes and poles are recommended. Bring a minimum of 1 liter of water. Carpool fee: $5.