Palm Springs Tours Offer Adventure and Fun in California

Palm Springs tours combine fun and adventure, while showcasing the best of California’s desert. Full of ups and downs, little nooks, and big drops, many touring companies welcome guests to explore the area’s history and diverse ecosystems. These tours not only provide an exciting way to learn about the area; they also support eco-travel and natural attractions. Whether searching for a rocky adventure or prefer cruising or walking around, here are the best Palm Springs tours.

Top 5 Palm Springs Tours: Laid-back and Thrilling Options

top palm springs tours outdoors

Photo: docentjoyce

Earthquake Canyon Bike Express (Biking)

This 20-mile bike tour begins in the San Andreas Fault, located between the Colorado and Mojave deserts. Adventurers enjoy an easy-to-moderate bike ride on a paved trail that winds through canyon walls. Riders also have the opportunity to see natural attractions, including Salton Sea, Mount San Jacinto, the All-American Canal and Coachella Valley. The tour comes complete with a guide, bike, helmet, water and snacks.

San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour (4×4)

Perfect for all ages, this 4×4 tour offers a professional guide who drives a Jeep through canyons and geographical cuts. While cruising, enjoy stories about the California desert, and learn about area plants, animals, geology and history. There are also opportunities to hop out and walk between canyons and explore a natural palm oasis.

Make sure to wear comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and a jacket for cooler months, such as November through March.

palm springs tours california

Photo: Ken Bosma

Joshua Tree National Park Tour (Walking)

Take a three-hour walking tour and explore the famous Joshua Tree area, which features two distinct ecosystems. Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a mix of history, plants, animals and more. This tour takes guests sightseeing through the area, while they hear about the area’s history and green-energy usage.

Walkers will want to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. This tour also includes a picnic lunch.

Colorado Desert of California Tour (ATV)

ATV Experience welcomes riders of all skill levels to explore desert terrain on an ATV. The eco-tour company has instructors and guides ready to provide action-packed fun. Tours run two to four hours.

Beginners should try the Hotel California trail, which explores Orocopia Mountains. The Red Canyon and Lost Arches trails cater to moderately experienced hikers and riders. The longest tour is Meccacopia Trail/Little Box Canyon, and special appointments are required.

Luxury Sightseeing Tours (Hummer)

Adventure Hummer Tours offers several luxury Palm Springs tours. Favorites include the Palm to Vines Tour, where guests taste nearly 20 blends of wines and have lunch at Cougar Vineyard. Their Best of Palm Springs tour showcases celebrity houses and historic cultural centers. Guests can add a dinner tour onto their experience, which includes dining in a top restaurant and a ride on the world’s largest rotating tram.

Learn more about the La Quinta and Palm Springs area, and find places to stay for your trip!