We will hike about 5.4 miles out and back on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), starting at 4,928 feet elevation at the Trailhead. The trail meanders up and down through the Garner Valley meadow area, traversing through a sea of chaparral dominated by chamise and red shanks. There are beautiful vistas of the mountains and valleys with glimpses of exposed-rock areas.
For the botanically-inclined there are many surprises, as the trail travels through oak and pine forest, past boulders, and along steep cliff sides until reaching a seasonal water source about 2.7 miles. This is the turnaround-point. Elevation gain of 700-feet is tempered by the rise and fall of the trail.
This trail is friendly to dogs on a leash. Bring 2 liters of water, snacks, wear closed-toed shoes, sun hat and sunscreen.
RSVP is required and you must bring your ticket with you for check-in 15 minutes prior to start time. Ticket reservations begin 14 days prior to the event. A suggested nonrefundable donation of $5.00 per person is appreciated and encouraged to support our volunteer programs.
For more information contact the Visitor Center at 760-862-9984.
Note: we will meet at the Pacific Crest Trail parking lot on Highway 74. Click here for map/UTM 33°33'50.0"N 116°34'36.3"W
Sponsored by Friends of the Desert Mountains in support of the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. Visit our website at www.DesertMountains.org
