Top Palm Springs Observation Decks

Soar over Palm Springs on the Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of the desert. Ascending to 5,783 feet (1,790 meters), the tram transports you to the San Jacinto Mountains. View unspoiled wilderness, including mountain spires and Ponderosa pine trees, during your ascent. Disembark and explore the area around Mountain Station, which includes a cocktail lounge, restaurant and observation deck. Hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski on the trails in the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area around Mountain Station.

Southern California’s Joshua Tree National Park can be a bit intimidating to take on all on your own; however, this self-driving tour lets you explore the park in your own vehicle while navigating the area with a GPS-powered app that leads the way. Just download the app on your smartphone, launch the app when you get to the park, and follow the recommended route and speed limit.

Get an introduction to the fun sport of archery near beautiful Joshua Tree National Park during this private experience, which has everything you need. Start with a beginner bow and a bucket of arrows to shoot from any distance you choose, with guidance on the proper form to aim and shoot. When you are ready, you can move up to a more advanced bow and heavier arrows.

Explore a shady oasis and rugged canyons on a Hummer adventure that goes deep into Joshua Tree’s arid landscape. See the park's most iconic sights and learn about its geology, fauna, and cultural history. Immerse yourself in the majesty of this park in the company of an expert guide and small group, for personalized attention. Choose from morning or afternoon tour times to suit your schedule.

Opt for this Palm Springs windmill tour, and try something a little different from your typical celebrity homes or San Andreas Fault tours you’d usually do in Palm Springs. This self-driving windmill tour allows you to explore the evolution of wind turbines on a private wind farm from the comfort of your own vehicle. The tour allows you to exit at each stop and guides you with a curated app with audio.

At nearly 800,000 acres, Joshua Tree is nearly impossible to take in on foot, and the best views are far off the paved path. Touring the park via 4x4, you’ll get to ride deep into the rugged backcountry, nabbing enviable views of the Mojave Desert, the sacred Joshua trees, wild rock formations, and more, making the most of your precious time in this incredible national park.

Explore Palm Springs and Indian Canyons by bike and on foot during a half-day tour from downtown Palm Springs. With guide, bike rental, and snacks included, it’s easy to discover one of southern California’s most scenic city and desert landscapes. You'll ride through Palm Springs on a 10-mile (17-km) loop to Indian Canyons, then hike in the canyon at a leisurely pace suitable for reasonably active people.