Mount San Jacinto State Park rises to 10,834 feet in Riverside County. It is near Idyllwild and Palm Springs. The park offers an alpine wilderness escape in Southern California. From desert-to-summit access via the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to scenic high-altitude trails and year-round adventure, the park stands as a beacon for hikers, nature lovers and families alike.
What Makes Mount San Jacinto State Park Unique
Mount San Jacinto boasts dramatic elevation shifts—from arid canyon base to snow-capped peak—creating diverse ecosystems in one preserve. Its summit provides panoramic views spanning the Sierra Nevada to the Salton Sea. Its ecological variety, Native American history, and its integration with the Tramway make it a stand-out destination.
Top Activities & Amenities
? Tramway & Summit Access
The Palm Springs Aerial Tram transports visitors from 2,643 ft to the mountain station at 8,516 ft. The journey takes about ten minutes. Visitors can enjoy rotating tram cars, alpine dining, a visitor center, gift shop, interpretive exhibits and access to over 50 miles of trails at the summit station.
? Hiking Trails & Rock Climbing
- Long Valley and Desert View Trails – easy, interpretive loops ideal for families.
- Cactus-to-Clouds (Skyline Trail) – a steep 21-mile trek rising over 10,300 ft, best tackled in spring or fall by experienced hikers.
- San Jacinto Peak Trail – accessible day-hike via tram, ~6 miles roundtrip.
- Rock City – world-class granite bouldering and climbing areas.
?️ Camping & Group Sites
Camping includes developed family sites at Idyllwild and Stone Creek, both offering fire rings, picnic tables, and water. Idyllwild even has full RV hook-ups and showers, while Stone Creek is more primitive. Backcountry camping in Round Valley, Strawberry Junction and Little Round Valley requires permits.
? Horseback Riding & Mountain Biking
Trails accessible from Stone Creek and Idyllwild camps support equestrian and mountain bike users. Horse facilities and staging areas provide access into the wilderness along scenic routes.
? Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Overlooks
Across the park you can spot mule deer, Golden eagles, and occasional bighorn sheep. Overlooks along mountain roads and at summit viewpoints offer stunning vistas and wildlife sightings.
? Visitor Centers & Interpretive Exhibits
The summit visitor center features geology, ecology and cultural exhibits. Rangers offer guided nature walks (weekends May–September) and school programs. Informative signs along trails, including “Trail Through Time,” highlight flora, fauna and geology.
?️ Picnic Areas & Park Store
Family-friendly picnic areas with grills and restrooms dot the Idyllwild campgrounds and summit. The tramway’s Mountain Station provides a restaurant and café with sweeping views, plus a small gift shop.
Visitor Tips
- Fees & Reservations: $10 per vehicle day-use; campsite fees range $25–45/night; wilderness permits $5 . Book developed campsites via ReserveCalifornia.
- Tram Schedule: Summer first tram is 8 am; winter starts at 10 am. Dress in layers—summit is 30–40 °F cooler.
- Pets: Allowed only in Idyllwild and Stone Creek camps; banned on tram and in wilderness trails.
- Permit Required: For overnight in wilderness or on Cactus-to-Clouds trail.
- Trail Closures: Cactus-to-Clouds may close during extreme heat or snow—check current conditions.
- Safety: Bring water, sunscreen and layers; summit weather changes quickly.
- Noise & Campfires: Quiet hours 10 pm–6 am. Fires only in established rings.
- Altitude: Summit elevation can affect breathing—ascend slowly if prone to altitude effects.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Autumn brings crisp, clear skies ideal for hiking and star gazing. In late spring, wildflowers bloom along the lower trails near Idyllwild. For a quieter summit, ride the last tram up in the evening. Hike the short Desert View Trail at sunset. Enjoy the spectacular canyon glow without the crowds. And if you’re seeking solitude, hike the tram-up, trail-down route via Desert View to Long Valley—just be sure to bring a tram-down ticket for your return.