Araby Trail
Hike to the iconic Bob Hope House for breathtaking Coachella Valley views, especially vibrant after desert rains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Araby Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the iconic Bob Hope House for breathtaking Coachella Valley views, especially vibrant after desert rains.
"Great hike! About 7500 steps from trail head, to flat area above Hope house, and back to trail head."
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water, even on cooler days. The desert sun is intense and shade is minimal.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky with inclines. Good hiking shoes or boots are recommended for stability.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bob Hope House
Top of the Araby Trail
Marvel at the unique architecture of this mid-century modern masterpiece, a reward for your uphill trek.
Panoramic Valley Vistas
Along the Araby Trail
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Lush Desert Bloom
Araby Trail
After rains, the desert floor transforms into a vibrant green landscape, a rare and beautiful sight.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Desert Heat
Trail Difficulty & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water, even on cooler days. The desert sun is intense and shade is minimal.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky with inclines. Good hiking shoes or boots are recommended for stability.
☀️ Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are essential. There's very little shade along the entire Araby Trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The Bob Hope House and valley panoramas are perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water, even on cooler days. The desert sun is intense and shade is minimal.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky with inclines. Good hiking shoes or boots are recommended for stability.
☀️ Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are essential. There's very little shade along the entire Araby Trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The Bob Hope House and valley panoramas are perfect for photos.
🚗 Limited Parking
The trailhead parking lot is small. Arrive early or be prepared to wait for a spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers praise the Araby Trail for its stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the iconic Bob Hope House. Many appreciate the vibrant green landscapes after rain. However, reviewers consistently note the lack of shade, limited parking, and that the 'easy' rating can be misleading due to the strenuous switchbacks.
"Some of the reviews call this an easy hike which is so misleading. My Apple Watch clocked my heart rate at 140+ often. It’s about Lots of switchbacks with great views to catch your breath. Bring water. The only reason it got a 4 star was minimal parking and shade . Great views of the valley and rich people’s houses. Cute house at top for photos
I was really surprised how many people were out hiking with no water or hats. Even in milder temps we’re still in a desert."
Jan Jones-Hickling
"Great hike! About 7500 steps from trail head, to flat area above Hope house, and back to trail head. Roughly 3.69 miles give or take. I hike a lot so would say this is easy but my wife doesn’t and felt it was mildly challenging. I saw a wide variety of ability levels so definitely a hike for everyone. It is rocky and very little shade so want to be careful. Bring extra water!
The view the entire hike is amazing and Hope house is very cool. We ate lunch up there before hiking back down. Parking is limited depending on when you go. I got lucky that someone was pulling out as I pulled in."
Anthony Sacco
"Beautiful 6K out and back with small loop at the top. About an hour up, rolling terrain, not too steep, well worn easy to follow trail. About 2 hrs altogether and we stopped for short breaks to rest and refuel.
Not too crowded when we walked it from noon to 2pm.
Scenic views into the hills and the famous Bob Hope house, amongst other elegant mid-century residences. Down the same path back to the small free parking lot.
Not a highly technical trail but a little endurance helps for the first hour, tho by no means difficult or excessive. Recommend!"
Martha Hale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Araby Trailhead is located off Palm Hills Drive in Palm Springs. Parking is available at a small, free lot.
Public transportation options to the immediate trailhead are limited. It's generally best to drive or use a ride-sharing service.
Parking is notoriously limited. Arriving very early in the morning or late in the afternoon increases your chances of finding a spot.
While Araby Trail is a distinct path, it connects to a network of trails in the area, offering longer hiking possibilities.
Typically, dogs are allowed on trails in this area but must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations before you go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Araby Trail is a public trail and does not require an entrance fee or ticket.
The trail is accessible from sunrise to sunset. It's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no admission fee to hike the Araby Trail. Parking at the trailhead is also free.
While not common for this specific trail, some local tour operators might offer guided hikes in the Palm Springs area.
No permits are generally required for day hiking on the Araby Trail.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The out-and-back hike to the Bob Hope House and back typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
It's considered moderate by many. It involves switchbacks and can be strenuous for those not accustomed to desert hiking.
No, the Araby Trail is almost entirely exposed with very little to no shade. Sun protection is crucial.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, surrounding mountains, and the unique Bob Hope House.
There are no restrooms available at the Araby Trailhead. Plan accordingly before you start your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bob Hope House is a prime spot for architectural photos. The panoramic valley views and desert landscapes are also highly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details of the Bob Hope House. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
The area around the house offers various angles. Be respectful of private property if you venture too close.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Bob Hope House is a fun visual reward, ensure children understand it's a private residence. The rocky terrain means keeping a close eye on younger hikers. The lack of shade makes it less ideal for very young children or strollers.
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
You can extend your hike by exploring some of the connecting trails at the top, offering more mileage and varied terrain. The Araby Trail is a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking an accessible yet rewarding desert hike.
📸 Photographers & Architecture Buffs
Bring a wide-angle lens for the sweeping panoramas and a telephoto lens to capture details of the house. Be mindful of private property when photographing the residence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Bob Hope House
While you can't enter the private residence, the trail offers excellent vantage points for admiring its design and capturing memorable photographs. Many hikers make the Bob Hope House their turnaround point, enjoying a picnic with a view before descending.
Visiting the Bob Hope House is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into the architectural heritage of Palm Springs and a rewarding destination after a moderate hike.
Navigating the Araby Trail
While not technically difficult, the trail's incline can be challenging for some, especially in warmer weather. The surface is rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The lack of shade means hikers should be prepared for full sun exposure throughout the journey.
Many visitors appreciate the trail's clear markings and the opportunity to encounter other hikers, fostering a friendly atmosphere. The consistent views of the valley below make the climb engaging and rewarding.
Desert Ecology and Seasonal Beauty
During these periods, the hillsides burst with vibrant green vegetation, a stark contrast to the usual muted desert tones. This seasonal bloom is a special sight, attracting hikers eager to witness the desert's ephemeral beauty.
+1Experiencing the desert's lushness after rain is a unique aspect of hiking the Araby Trail, reminding visitors of nature's ability to surprise and delight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit