Just outside a small town aptly name Idyllwild lies a series of trails and campgrounds collectively called the Mount San Jacinto State Park. The park divides Palm Springs and Idyllwild in half, and is accessible on both sides. The rewards for reaching the top are expansive, serene views of San Diego County, Palm Desert, and the San Bernardino Mountains. Why climb 5000ft for a pretty view, you ask?
Well, it's not just about the view. It's quiet up there, really quiet. We are so used to hearing the hum of computer fans, cars on the highway, and street sounds that we forget what it is like to be able to hear ourselves think. And up at the peak, you can. It's almost as if physically rising above the sounds of the daily grind give you a better perspective of what matters, and the silence, solitude, and rough beauty of San Jacinto Peak are enough to soothe even the most restless soul.
Most of the peaks in the park are around 10,000 feet tall, making for a somewhat strenuous trek. Day use permits are free, with overnight passes to stay in available campgrounds costing $10. It is possible to make it up San Jacinto Peak and back down in a single day, but the hike demands that one be in very good physical condition. I would recommend taking two days to complete the hike, staying a night in one of the many campgrounds available. This allows for a more relaxed pace. For those not able to make the hike, there is also a tram available on the east side of the park (via Palms Springs) which can take you to the top. Make sure to bring plenty of water. There are a few creeks and streams which may provide good water for filtering, but they are somewhat unreliable, because many of them dry up during the Summer months. The park rangers at the Idyllwild forest service station are very friendly and will gladly help plan a hike that is suited to your tastes.
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