This is a lovely 9-mile round-trip trail in the transition zone between chaparral and high desert. There is often running water at the halfway point Horsethief Creek which is a good destination hike in itself. Cactus Spring isn't a terribly exciting destination and rarely has more than a trickle of water, but there is lots more to explore once you get that far if you want an even longer hike.
Pinyon Flats Campground is just north of Highway 74 from the trailhead. Water and restrooms are available here. This is also a good place to spend the night.
