MORONGO VALLEY. This preserve presents 4500 acres of lush vegetation and more than seven miles of beautiful trails to explore. Considered a birdwatcher's and hiker's paradise, it also has picnic facilities available. Take I-10 West to Highway 62 through Morongo Valley business district and take a right onto East Drive. Guided tours and hikes can be scheduled; call for reservations.

The home of the Cahuilla Indians is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and features lush oases and abundant wildlife. Remnants of Indian life include rock art, house pits and foundations, irrigation ditches, bedrock mortars, pictographs, and stone houses and shelters built high atop cliff walls. Three canyons are open: Palm, noted (of course) for its palms; Murray, home of sheep and wild ponies; and Andreas, which unites palms and dramatic rock formations.

A place to escape and ponder the meaning of life. This monument is the result of two great deserts, the low Colorado and the high Mojave, coming together to create a 794,000-acre geological and floral wonderland. Visitors center, art gallery, and cafe-deli at the park's entrance. Mystical and awe-inspiring.

IDYLLWILD. If you're an outdoorsy type, you'll be delighted by this high-altitude park's 54 miles of hiking trails, camping and picnic areas, and guided wilderness mule rides during snow-free months. Cross-country ski equipment rentals can be arranged during the winter. The state park is only accessible by hiking or by taking the Palm Springs Tramway. Permits are required for overnight camping.