Mount San Jacinto State Park: A High-Country Escape
Discover stunning vistas, diverse trails, and alpine serenity in Southern California's majestic Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness.
Escape the desert heat and ascend to the cool, alpine heights of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Accessible via hiking trails or the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, this 14,000-acre wilderness offers stunning vistas, diverse ecosystems, and a range of recreational activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife viewing and simply soaking in the tranquility.
A brief summary to Mount San Jacinto State Park
- 25905 CA-243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, 92549, US
- +1951-659-2607
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Obtain a wilderness permit if you plan to hike into the Mount San Jacinto Wilderness. Permits are free but required and can be acquired at the Park Headquarters, Stone Creek Campground, or Long Valley Ranger Station.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as temperatures can vary greatly between the base and the summit. Be prepared for snow and ice in winter.
- Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike. Water sources are limited within the park.
- Consider taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for a unique and scenic way to access the park. Check the tram's operating hours and ticket prices in advance.
- Dogs are only allowed in the Idyllwild and Stone Creek Campgrounds and must be on a leash. They are not permitted in the wilderness or on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (except for service animals).
Getting There
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Driving
From Idyllwild, follow Highway 243 north towards Mount San Jacinto State Park headquarters. The park headquarters is located at 25905 Highway 243. Limited parking is available at the headquarters and along Highway 243. A day-use fee of $10 per vehicle is collected at the entrance. Be aware that Highway 243 is a winding, single-lane road with hairpin turns. Parking can be paid in-person (credit card and cash accepted) or with the LAZ parking app.
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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
From Palm Springs, take Tramway Road to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Purchase tickets for the tramway, which ascends to the Mountain Station. As of July 2025, ticket prices are around $31.95 for adults and $13.95 for children. From the Mountain Station, descend the concrete pathway to Long Valley and the ranger station to access hiking trails. Note that a wilderness permit is required for hiking. The steep walkway to Long Valley may be difficult for some.
Discover more about Mount San Jacinto State Park
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