BAND OF CAHUILLA INDIANS
enturies
ago, ancestors of the Agua Caliente Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah)
Indians settled in the Palm Springs area and developed extensive and
complex communities in Palm, Murray, Andreas, Tahquitz and Chino Canyons.
Abundant water and hundreds of plants and animals found throughout the area
ensured stable living conditions. Crops of melons, squash, beans and corn
were grown, animals were hunted, and plants and seeds were gathered for food,
medicines, basketweaving etc. Many traces of these communities exist in the
canyons today, including rock art, house pits and foundations, irrigation
ditches, dams, reservoirs, trails, and food processing areas.
The Agua Caliente Indians were
industrious and creative with a reputation for independence, integrity and
peace.
Palm
Canyon
Fifteen miles long, Palm Canyon is one of the great beauty spots in Western
North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, which the Cahuilla peoples
so expertly used, and its abundant Washingtonia filifera (California
Fan palm trees), are breathtaking contrasts to the stark, rocky gorges and
barren desert lands beyond. A moderately graded, paved foot path winds down
into the canyon for picnicking near the stream, meditating, exploring, hiking
or horseback riding. While in Palm Canyon, visit the Trading Post for hiking
maps, refreshments, Indian art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets,
weavings and conversational cultural lore.
Tahquitz
Canyon
Tahquitz Canyon is home to a spectacular 60 foot waterfall (seasonal), rock
art, ancient irrigation systems and artifacts, along with cultural and educational
exhibits. Self-guided hikes or Ranger-led hikes are available. Located at
the entrance to the canyon, the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center, at 500 W.
Mesquite, just west of Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, offers exhibits,
an observation deck, and a theatre room for viewing a video that narrates
the legend of Tahquitz Canyon. For more information or to reserve a ranger-led
interpretive hike, call the Visitors' Center at: (760) 416-7044. Admission
to Tahquitz Canyon is: Adults $12.50, Children $6.00 (12 and under).
Murray
Canyon
Murray Canyon is an easy hike south from Andreas Canyon. Foot and equestrian
trails lead to beautiful recreational spots among the many palm trees. Peninsular
Big Horn Sheep (an endangered species), mule deer and other wild animals still
roam the high ground above the canyon and can be seen by the lucky visitor.
Being less visited, Murray Canyon has its own secluded beauty; and at least
one known endangered species of bird, the Least Bells Vireo, is known to nest
here.
Andreas
Canyon
The contrasting greens of magnificent fan palms and more than 150 species
of plants within a half-mile radius beckon the desert-weary traveler to this
lush oasis. A favorite scenic foot trail leads through the canyon, passing
groves of stately skirted palms, unusual rock formations and the perennial
Andreas Creek, where one can still see the bedrock mortars and metates used
centuries ago for preparing food. This tranquil setting is excellent for photography,
bird-watching or a picnic at one of the tables along the trail.
The
Spa
The Agua Caliente people enjoyed a rich and varied ceremonial life, with the
sacred and medically beneficial hot springs often serving as a focal point
for these activities. The site of the present day Palm Springs Spa Hotel and
Mineral Springs ls located on a Cahuilla Indian hot spring. There was first
a rough-planked structure in this location, followed years later by a building
containing private bathing cubicles. Today's spa and hotel is noted throughout
the world.
The canyons and associated resources noted above are especially sacred to the Indians today and are historically important to scientists and lovers of nature. Please enjoy the free gift of serene beauty that you may take with you. Appreciate and respect.
Photos: Cover "View of Andreas Canyon"-- Rand Larson; Hawk & Murray Canyon -- George Service; Palm & Andreas Canyons - F/MC
