Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and first-time backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and fun
Distance · 10 miles with 2,933 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Yep, apply for a $5 wilderness permit at Round Valley campground
Drive · 2.5 hours from LA
Ideal dates · May to June or September or October
Pets · Not allowed in the park
Mount San Jacinto State Park has 54 miles of hiking trails, prominent peaks, like Mt. San Jacinto Peak (10,804 ft), the second highest mountain in SoCal, two campgrounds and four backcountry wilderness camps: Round Valley, Tamarack Valley, Little Round Valley, and Strawberry Junction. Unlike other treks, you can ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up most of the mountain! A tram ticket costs $27 per adult, and it's a 15-minute ride to get to ~8,000 feet. Backpacking in Mount San Jacinto State Park just got a little easier :)
Water Sources and Trail Conditions
Directions to Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Main image credit: Christopher Khoi Tran
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the largest and longest single-lift passenger tramways in the world! It carries you up 2.5 miles.
The Cahuilla tribe once used this area for seasonal hunting. Their trails still cross the mountain, and bedrock mortars can be seen in the park
The northeast face of the San Jacinto Range plunges down 9,000 feet in less than four miles. It's the steepest and most spectacular slopes in North America.
It's pricey, but Supergoop! makes putting on sunscreen feel smooth and easy.
Self-Care
A cute and colorful patch that repels mosquitoes with a natural repellent.
Self-Care
Self-care
A neat way to pack, carry, and organize dirty shoes.
Personal Stuff
Clothes
A lightweight, easy to clean customizable leash that comes in a rainbow of colors.
Pets
Pets
A weather-resistant LED collar so your pup stays safe at night.
Pets
Pets
Add this pup medication and liquid bandage bundle to your first aid kit.
Pets
Pets
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.