I have hiked San Jacinto Mountain many times before, but the last time I remember reaching the peak must be over 10 years ago. I tried a couple of times in 2024, but didn’t make it for various reasons. One was too much snow. Here is the report of that trip.

This time I went later in the year, June 29, and I made it. I took the San Jacinto Aerial Tram to the mountain station, at about 8,600 feet elevation.

First the obligatory departure picture at the ranger station. My wife took that picture. She hiked the loop trail, about three miles, and then went back down to Palm Springs while she waited for me, before she picked me up at the valley station of the tram, seven hours later.

Here I am still fresh.

The first major milestone is Wellman Divide, about 3.5 miles up the mountain. It is a major junction of several trails, some coming from the south side from Idyllwild, and others coming from the north, where I started.

From that point, there are fantastic views south, east and west. Looking south, in the distance, you can see the ridge of Palomar Mountain. On a clear day, like this day, I was able to see the white dome of the Palomar Observatory (red arrow). You can click on the picture to zoom in.

From some of the higher sections of the trail past Wellman Divide, there are great views to the east. The tram station is visible in the distance (this picture is greatly zoomed in, so it looks close). The station is actually four trail miles from where I stand.

Finally, the main trail junction 0.3 miles from the peak. Almost there.

Just before the peak, there is a stone hut with a few bunks.

The final ascent to the peak requires scrambling over major boulders. There is no more discernible trail.

Almost at at the peak. I needed to use hands and feet to make it up those slabs of granite.

Looking southwest from the peak, I can see Diamond Valley Lake (red arrow) in the distance. This where where I sometimes go mountain bike riding. From that trail, I remember looking at San Jacinto, looming majestically in the distance.

Finally, here I am, at the peak. I was really there.

The round trip hike of 11 miles took me 7 hours and I ascended 2,500 feet. All good.