Popular desert hot spots for fabulous Spring color include Tucson, Phoenix, and the high desert of Sedona, Arizona, as well as some great hiking and viewing areas of California: Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Temecula and Anza Borrego, which is southwest of the Palm Springs area.

Anza Borrego and Joshua Tree are probably the least visited of the above desert areas, but well worth the visit. I traveled to Anza Borrego recently and found some beautiful Spring color, as well as some really nice desert hiking.

The good thing about Anza Borrego is that it's not overly crowded. The downside is that many of the trails are accessible only by driving dirt roads better suited for 4-wheel drives. If you have a regular car, you will be limited to just a few trails, including the Borrego Palm Canyon trail (seen below), Yaqui Well Trail and Hellhole Canyon.

But, Anza Borrego is definitely a place worth visiting in March and early April, when the desert colors are at their best. And, when you've had your fill of hiking, there's always golfing, sky sailing, and horseback riding through the desert to occupy your time.

You don't have a large selection of resorts and hotels from which to choose, but there are a few luxury resorts, and even a couple cheaper motels I'd recommend:

Nicer Resorts and Hotels in Borrego Springs:

100 guest rooms with patios and balconies, featuring a restaurant, two pools, a 27-hole golf course, and fitnesscCenter.

The Palms Hotel at Indian Head

If you like mid-century modern architecture, this is the place for you. Once the haunt of Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable; renovated in the mid 90s. Located close to the Borrego Palm Canyon trail.

Borrego Valley Inn

Featuring two pools and spa areas, one clothing-optional.

If you're on a budget, you might try these inexpensive motels:

Oasis Inn Borrego

Not much to look at, but the place is clean and inexpensive. Nice pool area. Do keep in mind the walls can be a little thin. Some rooms have kitchenettes, and there's a bbq where you can cook your dinner. They also have space for RVs and camping.

Stanlunds Resort Inn & Suites

Some units have a private patio and BBQ. Free HBO.