Indio Overview

Indio is one of the largest gateways to Joshua Tree National Park, where the Colorado and Mojave Deserts come together to form some of the most unique geological displays known to man.

Indio is located at the eastern end of the Coachella Valley, which is composed of nine cities: Desert Hot Springs, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho, Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Palm Springs, and Coachella. The total permanent population numbers 180,000, with a seasonal rise to approximately 240,000.

Indio hosts a number of national sporting events, including the Skins Game and the Indio Desert Circuit -- America's largest horse show -- plus world class polo.

Population / Elevation

44.000 , 13 feet above sea level

Weather / Climate

Indio is sheltered by the Little San Bernardino Mountains to the north, the Santa Rosa Mountains on the south, and the San Jacinto Mountains to the west. This geography gives Indio its warm, dry climate. Known for 354 days of sunshine and less than 6 inches of rain annually, winter temperatures average in the 70s with nights in the mid-40s. The dry desert heat of summer pushes daytime temperatures to the 100s, a special joy to Europeans.

Off-Road in Southern California's deserts, check out our Mojave Road Guide (Near I-40) and The Bradshaw Trail. (near I-10) These hard to find guides will take you on a adventure though time.