Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
5,239.00 ft (1,596.85 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
17.50 mi (28.16 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

San Jacinto Peak via Deer Springs Trail is a 17.5-mile loop starting from Idyllwild and climbing the west side of San Jacinto Peak (10,834’), the second tallest peak in Southern California. This strenuous route passes through old growth pine forest and features scenic views of granite cliffs, lush mountainsides, and alpine meadows. 

The Deer Springs Trail is one of several trails that lead to San Jacinto Peak. This trail is well-maintained and less crowded than some of the nearby ones, but keep in mind that no matter which approach you take to climb San Jacinto Peak, it will be challenging.  The routes leading up to the summit are considered to be some of the most difficult/strenuous trails in Southern California. 

It is suitable for runners, hikers, and backpackers alike and can be completed in one day or overnight.

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:

  • State Park Headquarters in Idyllwild

  • Long Valley Ranger Station on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway side

Wilderness Camping Permits are $5.00 per person and are available at the following locations: 

  • Park Headquarters in Idyllwild

  • Long Valley Ranger Station on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway side

  • 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.

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Solitude. Scenic mountain views. Old growth pine forest.

Cons

Extremely strenuous.

Trailhead Elevation

5,641.00 ft (1,719.38 m)

Highest point

10,834.00 ft (3,302.20 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Bird watching
Old-growth forest

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

Yes

Permit self-issue on site

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.