The highest peak in Southern California at 11,465ft. Relentlessly steep, never technical, and worth every foot if you break it into two days.
The highest peak in Southern California at 11,465 feet, and you earn every foot of it. Vivian Creek is the most direct route: relentlessly steep, never technical. Along the way, three established camps (Vivian Creek Trail Camp, Halfway Camp, and High Camp) give you options for a shorter first day or a bigger group, and breaking the trip into two days with a camp at High Camp lets you summit in the cool morning instead of death-marching straight through. The views from the top stretch from the Pacific to the Mojave, and on a clear day, out to the Eastern Sierra.
Start: Vivian Creek Trailhead (6,295ft)
End: Vivian Creek Trailhead (6,295ft)
Water: Vivian Creek (mi 1), Vivian Creek Trail Camp, Halfway Camp, High Camp (seasonal, last reliable water)
The trail starts in Mill Creek Canyon, following the dry riverbed before crossing it and beginning the climb in earnest. The first half mile is the steepest section on the whole route, gaining 1,000ft with little shade, so put your head down and know it gets better. At just under a mile, Vivian Creek Trail Camp (~7,100ft) offers a shaded, sheltered first option if you want a shorter day one; it also has the most reliable water on the trail. Continue climbing through pine forest to Halfway Camp (~8,100ft, 2.6mi), the largest camp on the route with room for big groups, do not let the name fool you, it is nowhere near halfway to the summit. From there, gentle switchbacks through the pines lead to High Camp (~9,300ft, 4.9mi), the most popular overnight stop and the last reliable water source before the summit push. Fill up here.
Water: High Camp, Halfway Camp, Vivian Creek Trail Camp, Vivian Creek on descent
Leave camp early for long, grueling switchbacks above the treeline; they are not especially steep, just relentless. After about 0.7 miles you crest a ridge with views of San Jacinto, then face another steep switchback section before the final long traverse to the summit. Expect at least one false summit before the real one, a flat, rocky high point with 360-degree views stretching to the Pacific, the Mojave, and on clear days the Eastern Sierra. Return to camp, pack up, and retrace your steps all the way down to the trailhead.
Jepson Peak (11,205ft): easy 0.5mi detour for a second summit. Dollar Lake Saddle for views into the desert.
Adventure Pass required for trailhead parking (not sold on-site, buy ahead). Print your approved permit; rangers may ask for a physical copy since cell service is nonexistent once on trail. No bear canisters required but hang food. Creek crossings can be tricky early season. Camps at and above High Camp are exposed above treeline; expect strong wind if considering Summit Camp.
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