Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Review & FAQ:

• What is the Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge?
  • Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a 3,700-acre protected area located in California's Coachella Valley, just east of Palm Springs. It preserves the critically-endangered habitat of the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard.
• What makes the Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge unique?
  • The refuge protects the only known dune system where the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard thrives, along with habitat in the nearby Indio Hills Palms State Reserve.
• Is the refuge open to the public?
  • Most of the refuge is closed to the public to protect the endangered species, but several hiking trails are open for walkers, bikers, and horseback riders.
• What hiking trails are available?
  • Open trails include:
    • Moon Country Trail
    • Hidden Palms Trail
    • Willis Palms Trail
    • Pushawalla Palms Trail
    • McCallum Trail
• What is the Thousand Palm Oasis?
  • The Thousand Palm Oasis is a spectacular natural feature fed by water seeping from the San Andreas Fault. It is visible from several trails and is a great spot for nature photography.
• What can visitors find at Paul Wilhelm Grove?
  • Paul Wilhelm Grove is home to the park's nature center, which showcases exhibits on the rare lizard species and the refuge's unique ecosystem.
• Where is the Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge located?
  • Address: 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Road, Thousand Palms, CA 92276
  • Phone: 760-343-1234

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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