Plan Your Visit

 

Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is a stunning 14,000-acre sanctuary of natural beauty with stunning vistas and challenging trails for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Traverse through a network of over 50 miles of trails, ranging from leisurely strolls through pine-scented forests to strenuous ascents to panoramic viewpoints. Encounter diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems as you immerse yourself in this pristine wilderness. Whether you're camping in the high-country or venturing up the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway, there is something for everyone at Mount San Jacinto.

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Basic Park Info 

• The main park's headquarters is located at 25905 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549.
• The park's visitor center is located on the first floor of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Mountain Station.
• Mount San Jacinto Wilderness can be accessed through the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway as well as multiple San Bernardino NF trailheads located throughout Idyllwild including Deer Springs Trailhead, Marion Mountain Trailhead, and Seven Pines Trailhead, as well as the Pacific Crest Trail. 
• The Park Headquarters is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The Long Valley Ranger Station is open every day, however, hours vary depending on weather and access via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
• You must have a permit to hike into the Mount San Jacinto Wilderness. These permits are free and available 24 hours. You can acquire a permit by visiting the Park Headquarters, Stone Creek Campground, or by visiting the Long Valley Ranger Station. If you are under the age of 18 you must be with a parent or guardian or have a signed consent to obtain the permit. 
• Dogs allowed only in the Idyllwild and Stone Creek Campground. Dogs not allowed in the wilderness or on the Palm Springs Tram, with exception of service animals.
• Campfires and barbeques are permitted within the Idyllwild and Stonecreek Campground. Campfires are only allowed in the park's designated fire rings and are subject to sudden restrictions in the event of high wildlife condtions. In wilderness areas, campfires and barbeques are prohibited. Only portable camp stoves with an on/off switch are permitted for cooking within all designated campsites within the Mount San Jacinto State Wilderness. . 
• Day use parking is $10 per vehicle for facilities within Idyllwild.

Activities

• Hiking: Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness offers a network of over 50 miles of hiking trails, catering to various skill levels and interests. From easy walks to challenging ascents, these trails showcase the park's biodiversity and stunning vistas, providing unforgettable outdoor experience. Visit the Hiking Trails page for a list of all trails within the park. 
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a remarkable feat of engineering that offers visitors a breathtaking journey from the desert floor of Palm Springs to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. The tramway station features two resturant experiences, a full bar, giftshop, and is home to the parks Visitor Center. Learn more at http://www.pstramway.com/ 
• Educational Programs: Both the park and our non-profit NHA association offers a range of educational programs designed to deepen visitors' understanding of the park's ecology, geology, and cultural heritage. Learn more on the Activities page.
• Camping: The park offers two developed campgrounds with over 82 campsites in Idyllwild and four backcountry camping locations with 36 campsites. For more information about camping, including how to make a reservation or apply for a backcountry camping permit, visit the Camping page.  
• Birdwatching: The park’s varied landscapes shelter white-headed woodpeckers, Steller’s jays, and mountain chickadees. Visitors can utilize the Idyllwild or Stone Creek day-use parking areas to take a short walk around each location's nature trail for an unforgettable birdwatching experience. 

 

Rules and Regulations