This short (relatively) trail is a quick workout close to Palm Desert. Just about 7km if you include the out and back stretch to the lookout. We did the trail clockwise which is a bit steeper on the way up and a more gradual road coming down. There’s a pavilion at the trailhead with on street parking. Depending on the weather and temperatures, it’s best to go early as you would likely work up a sweat. In early December and January you are likely to see the desert big horn sheep. And in late January they close the gate to allow for breeding. Where comfortable shoes as the desert sand can be slippery and take poles, if you typically like extra balance

Definitely a challenging trail. We hiked clockwise this time, doing the steepest part first and taking the long gradual decline to the end. I recommend wearing shoes that will grip, as the trail is rocky, sandy gravel. It can be slippery. Allow 2-3 hours. We went in the morning and that is a good time to hike before it gets hot. Views are amazing.

First time on this trail and it was definitely a workout. I went clockwise and felt like the incline up would never end. It was rough on my lungs and not so much my legs. Being afraid of heights added to my breathing issues but I carried on and did the entire trail. Today was a beautiful day in upper 70s but it was still necessary to use sunscreen and carry plenty of water since it wasn’t shaded. I would recommend this trail if you want to push yourself and get a good workout in. Good shoes and trekking poles are recommended.

Trails were great - have hiked the bump and grind from the beginning and from painter's path, parking in a retail store's parking lot. Indian Canyon is great but gets crowded early. Best to get there by 8:00 or so.