Coachella Valley Preserve

The Coachella Valley Preserve is just a little north of the Palm Springs area. My visit there a few years ago was a great day-trip: nice hikes, picturesque palms, and even an oasis.

If you go, bring a hat, a camera, and plenty of water, (check out the opening times before going), summer is insanely hot so winter is a better bet. It is free (donations appreciated) and not terribly overrun with tourists. It is possible to catch some shade: