The best road cycling routes around Palm Springs
4.6
(9)
405
riders
29
rides
Road cycling routes around Palm Springs navigate a landscape defined by the Coachella Valley, flanked by the dramatic San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains. The region features a mix of flat desert roads, palm-lined streets, and gradual ascents into the foothills. This diverse terrain offers varied cycling experiences, from urban loops to routes with significant elevation changes.
Best road cycling routes around Palm Springs
- The most popular road cycling route is Palm Canyon – Palm Springs Art Museum loop from Vons Express, a 28.5 miles (45.8 km) moderate trail that takes 2 hours 1 minute to complete. This route offers a blend of city views and desert scenery.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Demuth Park - With Golf Resort – Palm Springs Art Museum loop from Palm Springs, an easy 23.8 miles (38.3 km) path. This route provides a relaxed ride through urban areas and past golf resorts.
- Local road cyclists also love the Palm Hills Hiking Trails loop from Palm Cyn at Cherokee, a 42.3 miles (68.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 3 hours 0 minutes.
- Road cycling around Palm Springs is defined by desert landscapes, mountain backdrops, and palm-lined avenues. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy city rides to moderate routes with elevation.
- The routes in Palm Springs are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Palm Springs's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
78
riders
45.8km
02:01
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3.0
(2)
20
riders
68.0km
03:00
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
35
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
27
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Palm Springs
Tips from the Community
Great ice cream 🍦 when you’re trying to cool down or escape the heat. Lots of flavours “never do one scoop, it’s not enough ¡ᗰᕼO²”…🤣
0
0
Koffi opens at 06:30 am which is perfect if you’re out early avoiding the heat. Great ᑕOᖴᖴᕮᕮ ☕️ ᗩᗰᗩZ¡ᑎᏀ ᑕᗩᏦᕮ 🍰 (the cinnamon bun with icing is to die for)
0
0
The Palm Springs Art Museum, itself a work of art designed by mid-century master architect E. Stewart Williams, is located on North Museum Way in downtown and is the unmissable crown jewel of Palm Springs' passion for the arts.
5
0
The Forever Marilyn Statue in Palm Springs is an iconic landmark that captures the essence of old Hollywood glamour. Created by artist Seward Johnson, the 1,000-foot-tall statue depicts Marilyn Monroe in her famous pose from the 1955 film The Seven Year Itch. The statue is a must-see in the heart of Palm Springs and a popular photo spot.
4
0
Palm Springs is a vibrant desert city known for its stunning mountain views, mid-century modern architecture, and warm, sunny climate year-round. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a great place to stop for a water break and refuel.
0
0
South Palm Canyon Drive is a picturesque route offering breathtaking views of the desert landscape in every direction. This stretch is a road cyclists dream as you can go pretty fast here.
1
0
The Frank Sinatra House is also known as Twin Palms and is a historic mid-century modern home built in 1947 for the legendary entertainer Frank Sinatra in Palm Springs. Designed by architect E. Stewart Williams, it is located in the Movie Colony neighborhood. The house features four bedrooms, a piano-shaped swimming pool, and iconic period details, such as expansive glass walls and clean architectural lines. Sinatra hosted many famous parties at the home, which became a symbol of Hollywood glamour in the desert. Today, the property is privately owned and available for vacation rentals or private events, preserving its legacy as a cultural landmark.
1
0
The Palm Springs Art Museum is in downtown Palm Springs, California, and houses a diverse collection of art, including contemporary works, modern pieces, Native American artifacts, and Western art. The museum also features rotating exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and educational programs. There is a theater for performances and events, as well as a café and a store.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 25 routes available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy and moderate options.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Palm Springs?
The ideal time for road cycling in Palm Springs is from October to April. During these months, temperatures are more moderate, providing an inviting climate for outdoor pursuits. The region boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Palm Springs?
Yes, Palm Springs has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Demuth Park - With Golf Resort – Palm Springs Art Museum loop from Palm Springs is an easy 23.8-mile path offering a relaxed ride through urban areas and past golf resorts. Another easy option is the Demuth Park - With Golf Resort – Palm Springs Art Museum loop from Prescott Preserve, covering 39.5 km.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
For advanced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway provides significant climbs and cooler air as it winds up into the San Jacinto Mountains. While not a specific komoot route in this guide, it's a well-known challenging option in the region. The Palm Hills Hiking Trails loop from Palm Cyn at Cherokee also offers varied terrain with over 440 meters of elevation gain over 68 km.
Are there loop road cycling routes in Palm Springs?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Palm Springs are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Palm Canyon – Palm Springs Art Museum loop from Vons Express, a 28.5-mile moderate trail, and the South Palm Canyon Drive – View of Palm Springs loop from Palm Cyn at Golf Club, an easy 32.9 km ride.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on road cycling routes in Palm Springs?
Road cycling routes in Palm Springs offer breathtaking desert and mountain landscapes. You'll experience dramatic views of the San Jacinto, Santa Rosa, and Little San Bernardino Mountains, palm-lined streets, and unique desert flora. Routes often feature a blend of cityscapes and natural desert scenery.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is considered very bike-friendly, with extensive bike lanes and quieter routes suitable for families. The Gene Autry Trail offers a quieter ride with minimal traffic and stunning mountain views, ideal for a more relaxed pace. The developing CV Link also aims to provide multi-use paths connecting cities, enhancing accessibility for all cyclists.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along road cycling routes in Palm Springs?
While cycling, you can encounter various attractions. The Forever Marilyn sculpture and the PS I Love You Sculpture are notable man-made monuments. You might also pass by the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Mountain Station, offering access to cooler mountain heights.
Are there any natural monuments to explore while road cycling in Palm Springs?
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. The Palm Canyon and Andreas Canyon Oasis, part of the Indian Canyons, feature lush oases and ancient palm groves. You can also glimpse the vast San Jacinto Wilderness and the majestic San Jacinto Peak.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Palm Springs?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from flat desert roads to gradual ascents, and the stunning mountain backdrops and palm-lined avenues that define the region's cycling experience.
Are there long-distance road cycling routes available in Palm Springs?
Yes, Palm Springs offers routes suitable for longer rides. The Palm Hills Hiking Trails loop from Palm Cyn at Cherokee is a substantial 68 km (42.3 miles) route, often completed in about 3 hours, providing a good option for those looking for more distance.
Can I find road cycling routes that avoid heavy car traffic in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is committed to a bike-friendly environment, featuring extensive bike lanes. The Gene Autry Trail is known for offering a quieter ride with minimal traffic. Additionally, the developing CV Link is a multi-use path designed to connect cities, providing more options for cycling away from cars.
Most popular routes around Palm Springs
Most popular attractions around Palm Springs
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
