Trailspotting Hiking California, New Hampshire and More

Bump & Grind, Palm Desert CA

• 3-star hike
• 3 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 760 feet
• Palm Desert, CA | Southwest US
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Two hikers walk along a dirt trail through rocky desert terrain under a clear sky, passing a sign that reads 'Bump & Grind Trail – Palm Desert – Mike Schuler Connector'.

Mike Schuler Trailhead starts the Bump & Grind Loop.

The Bump & Grind Trail delivers exactly on it's name with an undulating mountainside ascent which thankfully eventually leads into a gentler return journey. This 3-mile loop sits on the hillside above Palm Desert, California providing elevated views over a desert expanse which abuts dramatically against a sprawling suburbia.

Roadside parking is available behind a large commercial strip-mall adjacent to the trailhead along Painters Path Road. This area is equipped with a restroom, drinking water and - unusually - an outdoor remote-control vehicle racing track.

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⬤ 3★ Bump & Grind Trail 3.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 760 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Taking the clockwise route means confronting the steepest sections immediately. The trail switchbacks up the exposed hillside, gaining just over 700 feet of elevation on dusty terrain. There's little ceremony here, just consistent climbing through desert scrub while homes, golf courses, and swimming pools sprawl below.

The contrast is stark as you find yourself breathing hard on a barren slope while watching sprinklers water emerald lawns a few hundred feet away. At least the proximity allowed us the convenience of dashing to the strip mall grocery store after this fully exposed hike, to cool off with a packet of frozen peas on the back of the neck and the swift consumption of a box of popsicles.

A hiker in a red shirt and gray pants ascends a winding desert trail under a clear blue sky, surrounded by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.

Attack the steepest climbs first on a clockwise route.

At the top of the main loop, a junction offers a spur to a viewpoint. This additional out-and-back tacks on another mile and 350 feet of elevation gain. The reward is an expanded panorama of the Coachella Valley, though whether it's worth the extra effort depends on your energy reserves and interest in views. Be aware that this upper section closes from February through April to protect bighorn sheep during their mating season.

The descent follows the western side of the loop, where the grade eases considerably. The trail remains exposed with minimal shade, making early morning or late afternoon the most practical choices for avoiding midday heat. Temperatures in the desert can be punishing, and there's no water available on the trail.