Palm Springs: Indian Canyons Bike & Hike Tour with Ice Cream

Summary

Bike through Palm Springs history into Indian Canyons oasis

You’ll pedal through historic Palm Springs neighborhoods before reaching Indian Canyons for a gentle hike beside running water and ancient palms. Stories from your local guide bring the landscape alive, then finish with boutique ice cream at Kreem if they’re open. It’s relaxed but memorable — perfect for anyone who wants a day that feels both easygoing and quietly special.

What’s the experience like?

We started pedaling right after sunrise, the air still cool enough that you could smell creosote and dust mixing in the breeze. Our guide, Mark, waved us down a quiet street lined with mid-century houses — he pointed out where Sinatra used to throw parties (which I guess is just normal here). The city faded behind us pretty quick and suddenly it was all open sky and those mountains that always look closer than they are. I didn’t expect to feel so small rolling up to Indian Canyons, but there’s something about the way the palms cluster around the water that makes you want to whisper.

Mark led us off the bikes for a short hike — more like a meander — along a sandy path next to a stream. The water was cold if you dipped your fingers in (I did), and there were birds everywhere, even though it felt too hot for anything to be moving. He told us stories about the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians who’ve lived here forever; I tried repeating one of the words he taught us but definitely got it wrong. Nobody minded. The light filtered through the palms in stripes, which looked unreal on my camera but somehow better in person.

The ride back felt easier, maybe because we knew ice cream was coming. We stopped at this little spot called Kreem — if it’s open, don’t skip it. I went for pistachio and ended up with half of it melting down my hand before I even sat down. There’s something about eating cold ice cream outside when you’re still dusty from a ride that makes you forget how tired your legs are. Anyway, we coasted back through more neighborhoods (someone had their sprinklers going and it smelled like cut grass) and by then I was already thinking about when I could come back — or maybe just nap under one of those palm trees next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bike and hike Indian Canyons

• Bike through Palm Springs neighborhoods
• Walk along stream in palm oasis
• Bike back through neighborhoods
• Stop at Kreem ice creamery

Top questions

How long is the bike ride from Palm Springs to Indian Canyons?

The ride is short and goes through historic neighborhoods before reaching Indian Canyons.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

The minimum age is 12 years old.

Do I need to be very fit for this tour?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness; not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What does the Indian Canyons hike involve?

It’s a short nature walk along a stream in a palm oasis — more gentle than strenuous.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Does this Palm Springs bike tour include food or drinks?

Bottled water, snacks, and ice cream at Kreem (when open) are included.

Is there a minimum number of people needed for booking?

The tour requires at least two people to run; solo travelers should call first.

Are bikes and helmets provided?

Yes, use of bicycle and helmet are included in the tour price.

What’s included

Your day includes use of bicycle and helmet, bottled water to keep you cool as you ride, all entry fees and taxes covered by your guide, plus snacks along the way — with an extra treat at Kreem ice cream shop if it’s open before heading back into town together.