"The view from San Jacinto is the most sublime spectacle to be found anywhere on this earth,” said John Muir, the famous Scottish naturalist considered the ‘Father of the National Parks’ in the United States. Although San Jacinto is not one of the highest peaks in California at 10,833 feet (3,302 m), its relative height affords a unique 360-degree panorama of the vast desert, the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs.

With such a promise of breathtaking views, it's no wonder that thousands of hikers set out to conquer its summit every year. There are several trails, of varying difficulty, to the peak including the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or the famous Cactus to Clouds Trail (C2C). In this Collection, I propose a three-stage itinerary that reveals the spectacular and varied nature of Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness.

This loop follows the Deer Springs Trail from Idyllwild. After reaching the summit, you return via the Peak Trail and Wellman Cienega Trail, and at Strawberry Junction, you return to the Deer Springs Trail. As you follow this loop, you discover many characteristics of the state park. San Jacinto's biodiversity is astounding: from oak and arbutus forests where grey squirrels scamper, to coniferous forests where pines, yews and spruces tower like giants, to the granite landscapes that dominate the heights.

The first night is spent at Strawberry Junction Campground and the second at Round Valley Campground. Both are primitive campsites with no amenities where no fires are allowed. They do have cabin toilets (although their cleanliness leaves a lot to be desired) and at Round Valley there’s a spring and stream.

As you’ll be camping in the wilderness, bring a tent, sleeping bag, gas cooker and enough food and water (although you’ll find several places to refill your bottles). Water purification is recommended, so don't forget to bring a filter or purification tablets. Temperatures drop considerably at night, so bring warm clothing and camping gear suitable for cold weather. Updated information on weather conditions, the state of the trails and the availability of water in streams and springs can be found on this website: sanjacjon.com.

Although this route isn’t technically difficult, the last part of the ascent to the summit can be complicated and requires you to use your hands to climb between large granite blocks. Due to this and the considerable elevation gain, you’ll need a good level of fitness and some high-mountain experience.

Being above 9,800 feet (3,000 m), the ascent of Mount San Jacinto carries a risk of altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and pay attention to possible symptoms: if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and exhaustion, descend immediately.

This Trail begins and ends at the Deer Springs Trailhead car park. Unfortunately, there are no public transport options and the only way to get here is by vehicle.

To access and camp in the park, a permit is required. To do so, simply visit one of the park offices in Idyllwild. Permits are free if you don't camp, otherwise it’s $5 per person.

The varied scenery along the trail and the unforgettable views from the top of San Jacinto make this one of the most magical hiking experiences in Southern California. Enjoy!