Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Josie Johnson Vista Park in Palm Springs is a unique picnic area that can only be reached by foot. The park is located about 1.5 miles up the South Lykken Trail and features several picnic tables and panoramic views of Palm Springs, the Little San Bernardino Mountains, and the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. 

A visit to this scenic vista park is a great way for locals to explore some nearby nature, relax, and get a little exercise. Although the area is relatively small it is possible to find a picnic table with a little privacy. 

VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

The trail is lined with native desert plants, including creosote and cacti, and it is an important habitat for bighorn sheep. Visitors may even be fortunate enough to see a glimpse of these rare creatures during their visit. 

NEED TO KNOW

There is no water and the trail, and park, have little to no shade. Visitors must be prepared with enough water and food for the hike up and down. 

PARKING

Street parking is available on the south side of South Palm Canyon Drive on East Mesquite Avenue (be sure to read street signs carefully wherever you park and pay attention to local regulations and restrictions). 


 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Winter

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic Views. Picnic Tables. Bighorn Sheep Habitat.

Cons

Highway sounds. No Shade. No Water.

Features

Waterfalls
Wildlife
Picnic tables
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Santa Rosa + San Jacinto National Monument
Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park, California

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