|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
        
 Reporter |
Summary: This trail may be the easiest way up to the PCT in the lower San Jacintos. From here you also have easy access to four different peaks: (north)Palm View, (south)Pyramid, Pine, and Lion - any of which can be made into an extra excursion from the PCT split. I still haven't made it all the way up elusive Pine, but the scramble to the top of Pyramid is well worth the 360' from the top. Do be wary of ticks in this area after rains. My dogs have come home with ticks 3 times from this region, although I remain thankfully unscathed. This may not be the best trail for summer hiking as the way up is exposed brush. It tends to get pretty hot with no shade, but if you get there early enough, you can while the day away at the spring, reading a book like I did. Trailhead: The trailhead is easy to find. Take Highway 74 east from Lake Hemet, turn left onto Morris Ranch Road. It is paved all the way. There is a wide turnout just before the gated entrance to the trail. Please close all gates along the trail, as this trail runs through private property. Stay on the trail, we want to keep landowners who let us thorugh very happy. For the first mile the trail alternates between road and trail, until you reach the mile of switchbacks up to the PCT. They aren't bad, but they are switchbacks. Continue along the Cedar Springs Trail to find the surprisingly lush and wonderful backcountry campsite at the springs. My digital memory card fritzed out, so I don't have the best pics I took, sorry. :-( (Lat:33.6767 Lon:-116.57647) Trail Guides for Cedar Springs: San Bernardino Mountain Trails - 100 Hikes in Southern California by John W. Robinson (Wilderness Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: San Jacinto (909)659-2607 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Sam S. on 4/13/2009 Awesome hike. The scramble to the top has countless switchbacks and full of rocks. We ate our sandwiches at the junction of PCT. Great views of Palm Springs area. Will hike again to see other branches of the trail.
Reviewed by KL on 1/26/2009 Nice views, Cedar Springs is worth the visit - however it was but a trickle at this time of the year. Some snow patches but were easily navigated.
Reviewed by jeff on 3/19/2007 Instead of going north or south along the PCT try hiking the trail that points down to cedar springs. You will see huge cedar pines in a very shaded area. From here you can hook up with the Jo Pond trail to Garnet ridge and eventually all the way down to the indian canyons. However, a car shuttle is needed, because of 5000 feet of elevation down to the desert floor. 
Reviewed by Virginia on 1/16/2006 One of the best hikes I've ever taken as far as beautiful vistas the whole way. 2.5 miles gradual climb with beautiful views of the mountains, then the last mile down after crossing the PCT into Cedar Springs gives you views of the desert, nice contrast. The little area where the spring itself is a beautiful spot for lunch. It got quite windy and cold on the climb up. Great hike, will do it again!
Reviewed by Melissa J on 8/10/2005 My parents house is at the base of the trail in Trails End. I go up to Cedar Springs with my friends from College at least once a year. They all love it and we always have a great time!
Reviewed by Lizbeth on 1/30/2005 Went with a friend on January 22nd and it was a perfect climb. Local Hikes initial report nailed it - easy to find location - moderate work-out. 2 1/2 hours to furthest crest, then 1 1/2 hour descent. Left top of mountain at 3:30 p.m. - was chilly (take sweatshirt/jacket) - returned to vehicle in dark. Take into account sun dropping behind mountains earlier than "normal" flatland sunset. Don't look for wildlife though - only 1 squirrel on the road, otherwise too cold for reptiles (blessing in disguise?). Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Riverside County Hiking, Riverside County Trails, Riverside County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
