Guide to Exploring the Araby Footpath
Hiking the Araby Trail: Your Guide to a Palm Springs Adventure
Experience Palm Springs like never before on the Araby Trail! This beloved hike offers majestic views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, showcasing the area's natural beauty. Bonus? You'll get a sneak peek of some iconic architecture within a gated community that's typically off-limits. Despite its steep 1.7-mile incline, the trail is suitable for hikers with a moderate fitness level.
The Trail's Trespass:
Parking can be found at a small lot by Rim Road. Use this trailhead address: 2049 Rim Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264
The Desert Calls:
While the hike is not lengthy, it's advisable to tackle the Araby Trail at sunrise or sunset due to the constant desert heat. Remember, safety comes first: pack at least 1L of water, and wear appropriate hiking footwear.
Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack. Light, tough, and keeps my back dry with the trampoline mesh.
.Pro Tip:
Upgrade your hiking game with my favorite gear! Check out the Osprey Hikelite 26, Norda 001, Garmin inReach Mini 2, AllTrails Plus, and Garmin Fenix 8. Discover their perks on my Top Gear Picks page (last updated June 2025).
Norda 001 - Like a monster truck and a comfy pillow had a featherweight baby, for your feet.
A Trail Map for Modern Explorers:
The Araby Trail is straightforward, but keep an eye out for unofficial side trails that may lead into residential areas. By following these directions, you'll stay on track!
Garmin inReach Mini 2 - When I need 100% reliable SOS coverage, this is what I take in the backountry.
Mapping the Araby:
- CalTopo: View Hike on CalTopo
- GPX File: Download the GPX File
AllTrails Plus - 30% off! Up-to-date trip reports. AllTrails+ adds offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync.
Araby: The Trail's Mysterious Namesake
Though the trail's origins remain unknown, it was likely named after ancient geographical paths in the region or its resemblance to the Middle East. English explorer J. Smeaton Chase, who documented California's natural beauty in the early 1900s, might have played a part in its naming[1].
Garmin Fenix 8 - Took a few updates to get right, but now it's rock solid for me. I use it for maps, tracking, and routing.
A Martian's Guide:
Once you've completed the hike, simply retrace your steps back down. That's it – your Araby Trail adventure awaits!
Additional Insights:
Palm Springs holds a rich history, dating back thousands of years to the Cahuilla people[1]. The city is also renowned for its mid-century modern architecture and popularity as a resort destination[2]. For more information on the Araby Trail or the area's history, consult local historical societies or city resources.
[1] DesertUSA - Cahuilla People[2] Palm Springs Welcome Center - About Palm Springs
- The Araby Trail in Palm Springs offers views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, showcasing the area's natural beauty and a sneak peek of iconic architecture.
- Remember to pack essential gear such as appropriate hiking footwear, at least 1L of water, and a lightweight yet durable daypack like the Osprey Hikelite 26 for your hike.
- For added convenience and safety on the trail, consider investing in gear like the Garmin inReach Mini 2, AllTrails Plus, and the Norda 001 shoes.
- The Araby Trail is straightforward, but watch out for unofficial side trails that may lead into residential areas. consultation with local resources can provide more insight into the trail's history and the area in general.
- Upon completion of the hike, retrace your steps back down, and you'll have experienced the beauty of the Araby Trail, a unique combination of adventure, history, and modern exploration.
