Touching Earth

The Palm Springs area is part of the Colorado Desert, which is a subdivision of the larger Sonoran Desert. The Colorado Desert covers approximately 7 million acres, stretching from southeastern California to the Mexican border. The desert surrounding Palm Springs offers a landscape unlike any other, where vast stretches of sand and rocky formations meet an expansive blue sky. This part of Southern California is known for its arid beauty, dotted with cacti, Joshua trees, and towering mountains.

The desert itself is a canvas of ever-changing light, from the warm glow of sunrise to the soft hues of twilight. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or simply standing still, there’s a sense of endless space and freedom that makes it easy to disconnect from the rush of everyday life. The area experiences a unique climate, with hot summers and mild winters that make it a year-round destination.

• Palm Springs is located in the Coachella Valley, Southern California, approximately 107 miles east of Los Angeles.
• The city sits at an elevation of 479 feet above sea level.
• Each sequence unfolds over approximately 40 minutes.
• Despite the harsh climate, the desert is home to more than 1,000 plant species and a wide range of wildlife, including desert tortoises, jackrabbits, and various reptiles.

During the summer months, temperatures can soar above 100°F, but the dry heat is often more tolerable than the humidity found in other parts of the country. In the winter, the desert cools down to a comfortable range, making it the perfect escape from colder regions. This balanced climate not only supports a variety of desert flora but also creates the ideal environment for outdoor activities, from hiking to star gazing.

• Average High Temperatures: Summers can reach over 100°F (around 38°C), with July and August being the hottest months.
• Average Low Temperatures: Winter months average lows around 45°F (7°C) in December and January.
• Annual Rainfall: Palm Springs receives very little rain, averaging about 5 inches per year.
• Sunny Days: The city enjoys over 300 sunny days per year.

Visiting the desert offers a deep sense of calm.

The silence of the desert is one of its most striking features. With no noise but the occasional rustle of wind through the creosote bushes, visitors can experience a profound stillness that’s hard to find elsewhere. In a world filled with constant stimuli, the desert allows for moments of reflection and peace, giving visitors the space to recharge and reconnect with nature.