Help Build a Legacy

The Friends of Palm Springs Mountains and Riverside Land Conservancy are working together to build a legacy that preserves much of the Chino Canyon as open natural space for public enjoyment, and encourages limited development that enriches the cultural and recreational experience of the Canyon. Acquisition of privately held lands, along with incentives to encourage development in less sensitive areas, will be the keys to our success. Ultimately the legacy relies upon public and private partners to provide the funding to purchase the land from willing sellers.

Critical Wildlife Habitat

A hotel, timeshares, condominiums, club houses, restaurants, and a golf course are currently planned in the upper canyon, at a critical crossing point of the endangered bighorn sheep. Our plan establishes a State Park in this area and uses density transfer incentives to move development into disturbed areas of the Canyon or appropriate areas outside the Canyon. The Plan also envisions a shuttle system to the lower Aerial Tramway Station, to reduce traffic impacts on bighorn sheep and protect the quality of the Canyon’s air.

Spectacular Views

The Chino Canyon is visible from sites all across the Coachella Valley. Over 400,000 annual visitors enjoy the isolated wilderness of the Canyon as part of the Palm Springs Aerial Tram experience. The Tram ride provides an amazing perspective of the wide open natural spaces of the alluvial fan and canyon. Our plan supports the continued enjoyment of the Tram experience by preserving much of the Canyon’s natural open space and encouraging interpretive centers, hiking trails, and other recreational amenities to create a richer visitor experience.

Historic Architecture

Condominiums and commercial development may soon surround the Palm Springs Visitor Center, designed by noted mid-century architects Albert Frey and Robson Chambers. Our plan calls for enriching the Visitor Center experience with educational facilities and visitor features that enhance the Canyon experience, without compromising existing views.