San Jacinto Peak
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Station to Round Valley Campground
San Jacinto Wilderness State Park offers one of Southern California’s prettiest and most accessible high-altitude backpacking trips. Access via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway makes it beginner-friendly — just 2.5 miles to Round Valley Campground, where a base camp provides easy access to San Jacinto Peak.
Duration: 2 nights
Distance: 10.5 miles
Best Time: June–Aug.
Submitted by
GSSD Backpacking Trainers
Created
January 2020
Starting Trailhead: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Ending Trailhead: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Day 1
Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tram up to Long Valley. Hike 2.5 miles to Round Valley Campground heading west on Round Valley Trail. (2.5 miles)
Day 2
Day hike to the top of San Jacinto Peak (10,800’) starting west on Round Valley Trail, then north on Peak Trail at Wellman Divide. Once you’ve had your fill of the views, head back to Round Valley Campground the same way. (5.5 miles)
Day 3
Hike out the way you came in, east on Round Valley Trail. (2.5 miles)
Itinerary Options
For spectacular views, return to the tram via the High and Willow Creek trails. For a more challenging route, skip the return tram and continue your hike west to finish your trip in Idyllwild.
Key Risks
Water Availability: Round Valley’s spring often dries up by late summer. Depending on rainfall, water may or may not be available in June. Check with the Long Valley Ranger Station ahead of your trip.
Weather: Watch the heat index and stay mindful of any lingering late-season snow.
Permits Needed
Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Camping Permit
Resources