Jack Rabbit Trail

The Jack Rabbit Trail is part of the Mirada Trail System and connects with other trails, including Bighorn Overlook and Roadrunner, to form a variety of loops and routes that will be pawrfect for you and your fur-buddy to enjoy whether you have an hour or a half day to roam. The trail begins at the Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Survivors' Park, with parking at nearby City Hall. The little park is like an oasis, with palms and desert grasses, fountains and ponds, and benches. It's a great stop to gear up for the hike, or to rest prior to hopping in the car to return home afterward.

Set out on the trail behind the park, climbing into the foothills above, and through wildflowers that provide a visual treat in mostly barren desert chaparral. Footing can be a little tricky as you ascend via a series of switchbacks on sandy and rocky surfaces among palms and desert willows to the summit and its views of Coachella Valley, where it intersects with the Roadrunner Trail and also connects with Bighorn. Continuing on either of these new trails will result in a wide loop, or you can continue to the end of Jack Rabbit parallel with Frank Sinatra Drive. The return trip rewards you with views from a different perspective from the one on the outward leg of your hike, so be sure to take notice. 

Wildlife is abundant here, including the omnipresent lizards and snakes, desert rodents and birds. Your pooch will have a great time sniffing and listening for their rustling among the sage along the path, or you may even come upon a creature sunning on one of the jagged rock formations common to the area. 

Rancho Mirage is filled with fitness-minded parks and trails and the Jack Rabbit is one of the most popular destinations for folks who want to take a quick hike or just walk the doggo. Arf!