Explore the Desert Landscape of Rancho Mirage

Fine dining, luxurious spas, and star-studded neighborhoods. They’re all things associated with the elegant California resort town of Rancho Mirage. But this desert oasis is also a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities in nature. From hiking to biking and nearly everything in-between, Rancho Mirage checks all the boxes for embracing the great outdoors.

Courtesy Visit Greater Palm Springs @visitgreaterps

Take on the Trails

Start your outdoor adventure at the Bighorn Overlook Trail. This small but mighty quarter-mile hike with a 100-foot elevation gain offers a panoramic view from the top. It's an excellent choice for both sunrise and sunset chasers.

Just beyond the picnic shelter at Bighorn Overlook, the trail intersects with other paths of the Mirada Trail System. The most popular loop is the ribbon-like Chuckwalla Trail. You’ll circle around the Mirada Villas neighborhood for approximately 1.5 miles before connecting to Roadrunner Trail, an easy path that follows the foothills down to City Hall. Along the way, you may even catch a glimpse of bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and other native wildlife.

Looking to raise your heart rate? For a challenging but rewarding climb, the four-mile Bump and Grind loop is like nature's version of a StairMaster^®. The trailhead starts behind Desert Crossing Shopping Center in Palm Desert and rises abruptly into the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.

Fun on Two or Four Wheels

Get ready to tackle the scenic landscapes of Rancho Mirage. The city offers a network of bike paths and trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through the neighborhoods or an uphill cycling experience, you'll find it all here.

Local tour companies also offer more challenging mountain biking excursions. Expert guides will cater the route for your ability level, traveling along ridge lines and mountain paths, or through washes.

Then there’s hitting the rugged terrain on four wheels. Explore the fascinating desert ecosystem via a Jeep^® tour. Witness the beauty of the desert from unique perspectives and learn more about the majestic landscape from expert local guides.

Local tour companies also offer more challenging mountain biking excursions. Expert guides will cater the route for your ability level, traveling along ridge lines and mountain paths, or through washes.

Then there’s hitting the rugged terrain on four wheels. Explore the fascinating desert ecosystem via a Jeep® tour. Witness the beauty of the desert from unique perspectives and learn more about the majestic landscape from expert local guides.

Don’t Overlook the Public Parks

With more than 350 days of sunshine per year, embrace the pleasant weather at one of the city's five public parks. Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Survivors Park is a sculpture garden of quiet respite, while Blixseth Mountain Park showcases natural desert beauty.

For a true Rancho Mirage experience, stop by Michael S. Wolfson Park, where you can hear a welcome message recorded by late Frank Sinatra, a longtime resident.

Tennis or Pickleball, Anyone?

Rancho Mirage boasts excellent courts that are open to the public. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking for some fun, pick up a match or practice your swing on the courts at Rancho Mirage Community Park.

Courtesy Visit Greater Palm Springs @visitgreaterps

Stargazing Under Desert Skies

The City of Rancho Mirage Observatory offers the ultimate outdoor nighttime activity — stargazing. As the sun sets, see the desert sky come alive with a dazzling display. Knowledgeable astronomers will guide you through the constellations and celestial wonders above.

The Westin Mission Hills Resort Villas, Palm Springs

Where to Stay:

Among the mountains of Rancho Mirage lies The Westin Mission Hills Resort Villas, Palm Springs. Your oasis in the desert is a rejuvenating escape with access to exciting fun or a relaxing getaway. Walk along miles of nearby hiking trails, play a round (or two) of golf, or head to Palm Springs for fine dining and shopping. Stay at the resort for an energizing dip in the pool, a cup of coffee on the balcony, or a refreshing drink at Aloes Pool Bar. You can also head to nearby Palm Desert and stay at Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas I, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas II, Marriott’s Shadow Ridge I – The Villages, or Marriott’s Shadow Ridge II – The Enclaves. Each resort provides access to the area’s rich culture of outdoor adventures, sports, and more.