Biskra Palms

DAY ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY SIX

The San Andreas Fault runs along the entire length of the north end of the Coachella Valley. In several sections the fault causes water to rise to the surface and in those place palm oases grow. There are several such oases on the southern section of the Indio Hills and today I hike to one of them, Biskra Palms.

You reach Biskra Palms from Washington Street by driving a series of rocky and sandy roads to the oasis. A truck or Jeep is required. You don't need 4WD but high clearance is essential to get there; the mini van ain't making it.

Biskra Palms is a thriving and healthy oasis with a lot of new growth.

It is easy to see why. There is a lot of water right at the surface. Looks tasty.

As I hike through the oasis I spy something interesting on the hill behind: a trail! I definitely have to go and check that out. I find a few other trails as I explore and ideas for more possible adventures.

I head up the hill to an area overlooking the gravel pit run by Granite Construction.

There's a lot of activity going on down there. This would be a good place to bring the boys because they just love construction equipment.

At the top of the trail is a fantastic view of the western Coachella Valley. I know where I'm coming next time I want to come and look at the sunset. If you click on the picture to enlarge it you'll see the Jeep WAY down there.

You also get a picture perfect view of the oasis itself and if you look real close on the right side of this picture you'll see another trail. I wonder where that one goes? Looks like I'll be coming back here to find out, doesn't it?