Palm Springs Hikes/Impact of shutdown?

Question

We’ll be in Palm Springs for a couple of days this week starting tomorrow, and we both really enjoy hiking (generally moderate hikes with pretty views). We’re debating between Joshua Tree, Tahquitz Canyon, Indian Canyons, the Coachella Valley Preserve and Painted Canyon. We were wondering to what extent these are affected by the shutdown (we believe that Joshua and Coachella are federal but don’t know about the others), specifically park access, bathroom access and visitors’ centers. Thanks in advance for any thoughts/advice.

Answer

If you’re visiting Palm Springs and enjoy hiking, you have some excellent options. The extent of access will depend on whether the area is managed federally or locally, especially during a government shutdown. Here’s a breakdown of the places you mentioned and their typical accessibility:

Joshua Tree National Park – As a federally managed park, a shutdown can impact visitor centers, campgrounds, and ranger services. However, the main roads and trailheads are often still accessible, though bathrooms and trash services may be limited or closed. Expect no staff on site, so plan accordingly.
Coachella Valley Preserve – Managed by local and state entities, generally not affected by federal shutdowns. Trails and access points should be open, but facilities may be limited depending on staffing.
Tahquitz Canyon – Operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, this is a fee-based attraction with guided hikes and interpretive services. Access is independent of federal operations, so it should be open as usual, although guided tours might be limited if staffing is affected.
Indian Canyons – Also run by the Agua Caliente Band, so unaffected by federal shutdowns. Trails, parking, and visitor services should operate normally.
Painted Canyon – Part of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which is state-managed. State parks generally remain open during federal shutdowns, but visitor centers may have limited hours, and some trail maintenance may be minimal.

Given that you enjoy moderate hikes with scenic views, here’s some advice for your visit this week:

Joshua Tree is spectacular and worth visiting, but plan to bring your own water, food, and sanitation supplies as many facilities may be closed.
Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyons are great options for shorter, moderate hikes with maintained trails and historical/cultural context, with the added benefit of being unaffected by the federal shutdown.
Coachella Valley Preserve offers beautiful desert landscapes and moderate hikes, especially around the Thousand Palms Oasis, and is reliable regardless of federal closures.
Painted Canyon is a good option for a scenic drive with optional short hikes and photo stops.

Overall, for your short stay, combining Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon with Coachella Valley Preserve gives you accessible trails, nice views, and minimal impact from the shutdown. If you are set on Joshua Tree, go early in the day, be self-sufficient, and check the park’s website for any last-minute notices on closures.