Best Hikes in the San Jacinto Mountains

John Muir once referred to the views from California’s San Jacinto Mountains as the most sublime spectacle found on earth. The stunning vistas from the peak offer views you won’t find anywhere else and hiking there offers some of the best foot trails through untouched wilderness in America. There are only so many ways to get through the mountains, so check out these hikes next time you’re in the area.

Idyllwild

The hike to the San Jacinto Mountains, beginning from Idyllwild, is a tough trek even for hardened adventurers, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It contains nearly 20 miles of trails and a climb of more than 5,000 feet. From start to finish you can expect to spend roughly 10 hours until you reach the top. The hike contains numerous obstacles that’ll require you to climb and scramble over boulders, but as one of the most popular hikes, you won’t have to traverse it alone.

Mountain Station

If you’re looking for something requiring a little less skill, make your starting point Mountain Station near Palm Springs. You’ll cut out much of the trip to the top by using the PS Aerial Tramway that lifts you to an elevation of 8,516 feet. From there, you’ll start an 11-mile journey over fairly mild terrain and clearly marked trails. The hike itself will last a little over five hours and see you climb approximately 2,000 feet. You’ll still see plenty of the premier views as you would beginning at Idyllwild but with not nearly as much effort.