Self-Driving Windmill Tours with Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; suitable for individuals comfortable sitting and driving.
Overview
Take the wheel and discover Southern California’s pioneering commercial wind farm with Palm Springs Windmill Tours. This self-guided audio drive offers a hands-on look at renewable energy set against the desert’s vast open space.
Adventure Tips
Bring a fully charged phone
You'll need your phone to run the audio guide app throughout the tour, so start fully charged and consider a car charger.
Drive carefully near turbines
Some stops involve roadways close to operating turbines—stay alert and respect safety barriers.
Plan for desert temperatures
Bring water and sun protection, especially during summer when heat can be intense even in the car.
Avoid large vehicles
Only vehicles 28 feet or less are allowed for this tour; Sprinter vans and similar fit best.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert cottontail rabbits
- Common roadside lizards
History
Southern California's first commercial wind farm broke ground in the early 1980s, marking a regional commitment to renewable energy.
Conservation
The tour highlights renewable power's role in reducing carbon emissions and encourages visitors to appreciate sustainable energy's desert impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Smartphone or tablet
Required for accessing the audio tour app and maps throughout the drive.
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from bright desert sun during the tour.
summer specific
Car charger
Ensures your device maintains charge while running the audio guide.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in the dry desert environment.
summer specific