Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
The hike begins from the mountain station of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Hikers must check in at the ranger station for a free backcountry permit.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
The trail follows hard packed dirt as it climbs in the direction of Mt San Jacinto Peak.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
A few creek crossings lie along the way. This trail may be completely snowed in, depending on recent conditions.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
The climb is forested and alternates between gradual and steep on a somewhat technical path.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
The views and cool mountain air along the way are stunning.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Several other trails branch off of this path, allowing hikers to customize their route if wanted.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Reaching the campgrounds near Round Valley.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
A signed fork marks where the Tamarack Valley path leaves the Peak trail.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
There are many backcountry camp sites once the trail reaches Tamarack Valley, as well as this generally unmanned ranger station and storage building.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Once the trail leaves Round Valley and enters Tamarack Valley, the path becomes less distinct, mostly serving to access the camp sites.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Though entering the valley, tree coverage tends to be dense and you don't really see the valley area.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Beyond the camp sites, the trail is unmaintained by the park and becomes a use path.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Since few visitors venture into this area of Tamarack Valley, the wildlife seems less worried about their surroundings.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Portions of the loop trail are steep, tracing the seasonal stream route.
Shaun Hunter
Photo Date: 
08/18/2025
Reconnect with the orginal section of trail and the return path becomes much easier to follow.