Kate Anderson, director of public relations for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, explains how your clients can discover more about the tribe, and highlights some of the must-do hikes in the destination.
The presence of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians – today, a tribe of more than 500 members in Greater Palm Springs – dates back thousands of years. For visitors to Greater Palm Springs there are many ways to visit the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and learn about the history, culture and modern times of the Agua Caliente people.
The newly opened Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza features an Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, a Gathering Plaza and an Oasis Trail; providing the opportunity to learn about and experience Agua Caliente culture from the past and present. Relaxing in the ancient healing waters of the Agua Caliente hot mineral springs at the adjoining Spa at Séche is also a popular activity.
Travellers looking to further immerse themselves in the rich history of Greater Palm Springs can hike the Indian Canyons, which are the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and are sacred to the tribe. Comprising of Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon and Palm Canyon, Indian Canyons offers mountain streams, palm oases and rock formations.
When in Greater Palm Springs, a spectacular day trip to Tahquitz Canyon with a hike to the magnifcent Tahquitz Falls – a 60-foot waterfall – is also a must. While hiking this beautiful landscape, visitors can witness remnants of the early Agua Caliente society and learn about the native history.