Tahquitz Canyon

Lonely Planet review

Opened in 1999 after having been closed for 30 years, Tahquitz Canyon is a historic and sacred centerpiece for the Agua Caliente people. It was traditionally home to Agua Caliente ancestors, but was taken over by teenage squatters in the 1960s. Eventually the canyon became a point of contention between the Agua Caliente, local law enforcement agencies and squatters who claimed the right to live in its alcoves and caves.

A clean-up rid the canyon of inhabitants, but it took years to get the area back to its natural state.Rangers lead informative 2-mile, 2½-hour hikes at 08:00 , 10:00 , noon and 14:00 daily; call for reservations. Self-guided hiking is also available. The visitors center at the canyon entrance shows a video about the legend of Tahquitz, a shaman of the Cahuilla people. There are also exhibits about the canyon and a great view over the valley.