If you’re looking for a short hike in Palm Desert with a solid payoff, the Cross Hike checks the boxes. It’s relatively quick, moderately challenging, and ends with one of the more recognizable viewpoints in the area.

Before you lace up, here are five things to know about hiking to the cross.

1. Why is it called the Cross Hike?

Because there’s a very large cross at the top. No mystery here.

The cross is visible from much of Palm Desert and lights up at night, making it a pretty effective landmark. Whether you find it inspiring or just useful for orientation, it’s hard to miss.

2. How long and difficult is the hike?

The trail is about 2.6 miles round trip with roughly 640 feet of elevation gain, according to AllTrails.

The hike starts on a wide access road that leads to a small seating area and drinking fountain, which feels like winning the desert lottery. From there, the trail narrows and climbs more steadily toward the cross.

The first half is more strenuous than the second. The return trip is all downhill, which your knees will have opinions about.

You’ll encounter a fork on the way up. The correct route is the one that very clearly continues toward the cross. If you find yourself questioning every life choice, you probably went the wrong way.

Standard desert rules apply: proper shoes, sun protection, and enough water. Flip flops are a bold move here and not the good kind.

3. Where is the trailhead?

The main trailhead is located at Ralph Adams / Cap Homme Park in Palm Desert. Parking is usually available, especially outside peak sunrise and sunset hours.

Yes, you can get creative and hike to the cross via the Bump and Grind or the Art Smith Trail, but those are significantly longer and more demanding routes. If this is your first time, starting at Adams Park is the smart move.

4. The cross is huge. How do you get a decent photo?

This is where panorama mode earns its keep.

Switch your phone to pano, recruit a friendly hiker, and have them pan upward. You’ll actually get the whole cross in frame instead of a confusing abstract composition.

There’s also a guest book near the cross. Feel free to sign it. Maybe don’t read everyone else’s messages unless you’re prepared to feel things.

5. When’s the best time to hike?

Sunrise and sunset offer the best views and cooler temperatures, but they’re also the busiest times, especially on weekends.

Mid-morning during cooler months is a solid compromise if you want space without sacrificing scenery. As always, avoid midday hikes in warmer weather.

Most hikers on this trail are friendly and respectful. A few still think blasting music into the canyon is a personality trait, but that’s desert life.

Have a good hike, drink your water, and don’t overthink it.