Mt. San Jacinto is the second tallest peak in Southern California at 10,834’. Although this route requires a fair amount of work, the effort is more than rewarded by the expansive views, forest, meadows, and dramatic topography.

You will need an Adventure Pass ($5/day) to park at Humber Park, as well as a hiking permit to hike in the San Jacinto Wilderness. Both can be picked up at the Ranger Station on the way to the parking area. The hiking permits are free and you can fill one out without needing to talk to a ranger if you are day hiking. Also, make sure you have a good map as the network of trails are extensive and a little hard to follow if you have no guide.

Begin your hike with the steep climb up the Devils Slide Trail to the PCT Junction. Head left (north) marked by a sign indicating “San Jacinto Peak”. The views at this point keep getting better especially into the valley and across to Lily Rock and Tahquitz Peak. Continue straight (north) to Wellman Cienaga. Here is the last running water before the summit. At this trail junction, veer left and follow the sign to the summit. The trail climbs through a forest of lodgepole pine then makes a long switchback up the southeast slope of San Jacinto Peak. Once you meet up with the San Jacinto Peak Trail you are within 0.3 of a mile to the summit. Pass the stone shelter and make your own path up the boulders to the summit sign. The best views though are past the sign. Continue boulder hopping north and you will get the most spectacular view of Mt. San Gorgonio and the Coachella Valley to the southeast. Once you’ve taken in the 360 degree views, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Across the street from the Ranger Station, Arriba Enterprise Mexican offers some hefty portions and tasty drinks.

Directions:
From Los Angeles take the 10 Freeway east to Highway 243 to Idyllwild. Continue for 24 miles then turn north east (left) on North Circle Drive just below the Ranger Station. At the 4-way intersection turn right on South Circle Drive. Proceed 0.1 mile then turn left on Fern Valley Road. After 1.8 miles reach the parking area of Humber Park. The Devils Slide Trailhead starts at the top of the parking area.