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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

Indian Wells, California · Riverside County

This scenic driving tour climbs from the desert through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, before descending again to the desert. The route passes through a series of areas preserved for animal habitat, ranging from desert oasis to snow-capped mountains, and parts of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Nati…

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About Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

This scenic driving tour climbs from the desert through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, before descending again to the desert. The route passes through a series of areas preserved for animal habitat, ranging from desert oasis to snow-capped mountains, and parts of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument and San Bernardino National Forest. Drivers can pull off the winding and often steep road at a number of pulloffs or lookout points, each with habitat ranging from forested mountainsides with pine, oak and fir, to a reservoir, to arid brush- and cactus-covered stretches -- not to mention sweeping views of mountains and valleys.

How to Get There

From Palm Springs, take Highway 111 east to Palm Desert, then Highway 74 west climbing into the Santa Rosa Mountain. At Mountain Center, take Highway 243 north to Banning and Interstate 10.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

Heading to Palms to Pines Scenic Byway? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Palms to Pines Scenic Byway?

No central reservation system listed for Palms to Pines Scenic Byway. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/15184) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Palms to Pines Scenic Byway?

From Palm Springs, take Highway 111 east to Palm Desert, then Highway 74 west climbing into the Santa Rosa Mountain. At Mountain Center, take Highway 243 north to Banning and Interstate 10.

How do I contact Palms to Pines Scenic Byway?

You can reach the park at phone: 760-833-7100 (Field Office) or 760-862-9984 (Visitor Center) or email: BLM_CA_Web_PS@blm.gov.