I made a quick trip here recently and really enjoyed the Panorama Trail as a scenic workout run. It would have been even more fun on a mountain bike!

This trail has been touted as the most difficult hike in the US, the hike with most elevation gain, etc etc for a reason. It's a serious trail, especially in the summer. Don't take this on unless you are prepared and physically fit.

This trail is in serious danger of being closed off, either seasonally or permanently, because of the high number of accidents recently.

I did this trail today from Palm Springs Museum to San Jacinto summit and back down to the tram. While stopped at the parmit station I had a chat with the ranger, who told me there have been 4 deaths just this year and quite a few other rescues performed. The cause is usually dehydration and heat exhaustion.

I think we would all agree that this trail should remain open for those who really want it. So please make sure you do it right if you decide to take it on.

My advice: There is no reason this trail should be a killer. Route finding is relatively easy, there are no sharp drop-offs, rocks are generally stable underfoot, and the route passes by not only a drinking water source, but a luxury restaurant and bar. The difference between a great experience and a miserable one is a little planning, preparation, and training for steep, sustained hiking.

Native American pictographs can be found right next to Ski Jump Rapid. Pictures on the rock walls may have been painted nearly 1000 years ago by original people who lived here. No one knows exactly why they were drawn or what they mean. To access these, take the obvious trail upriver from Lost Oak Camp (river left) and look for a side trail on your right after walking for about three quarters of a mile. Do not touch the pictographs! Your fingers can rub the paint off the rock.