This 15.7-mile loop route begins in Idyllwild and passes through both San Jacinto State Park and the San Jacinto Wilderness. This moderately rated route begins with a steep climb followed by a long descent featuring a mountainous landscape with pine forests, meadows, steep cliffs, and exposed ridges.
Several trails intersect sections of the loop, making it possible to extend or shorten the distance as needed, and can be completed in a day or as a backpacking trip.
DIRECTIONS
Start from the Deer Springs trailhead west of Idyllwild on Highway 243. Follow the Deer Springs Trail uphill to the Strawberry Junction / Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). At the junction, turn right and follow the PCT south for about 4 miles. Leave the PCT at Saddle Junction and take the Devil's Slide Trail to Humber Park Trailhead.
From there, descend the Ernie Maxwell Trail into Idyllwild. The last few miles of the route require some road walking to traverse through town and return to Deer Springs Trailhead.
RESTRICTIONS
SAN JACINTO STATE PARK PERMIT INFORMATION
Permits are required for both day and overnight use. Day use permits are free and available 24 hours a day the following locations:
Wilderness Camping Permits are $5.00 per person and are available at the following locations:
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Park Headquarters in Idyllwild
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Long Valley Ranger Station on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway side
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Online application (must be printed and mailed): Wilderness Camping Permit
SAN JACINTO WILDERNESS PERMIT INFORMATION
Permits are required for day use and overnight trips. Permits are free and are available through the forest service. For more information please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev7_007800.
For information about free camping permits within the federal wilderness area please call the San Jacinto Ranger District (Friday - Tuesday: 8:00am - 4:30pm) 1-909-382-2921.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Deer Springs Trail
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