Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
3,909.00 ft (1,191.46 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
15.70 mi (25.27 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This 15.7-mile loop route begins in Idyllwild and passes through both San Jacinto State Park and the San Jacinto Wilderness. This moderately rated route begins with a steep climb followed by a long descent featuring a mountainous landscape with pine forests, meadows, steep cliffs, and exposed ridges.

Several trails intersect sections of the loop, making it possible to extend or shorten the distance as needed, and can be completed in a day or as a backpacking trip. 

DIRECTIONS

Start from the Deer Springs trailhead west of Idyllwild on Highway 243.  Follow the Deer Springs Trail uphill to the Strawberry Junction / Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). At the junction, turn right and follow the PCT south for about 4 miles. Leave the PCT at Saddle Junction and take the Devil's Slide Trail to Humber Park Trailhead. 

From there, descend the Ernie Maxwell Trail into Idyllwild. The last few miles of the route require some road walking to traverse through town and return to Deer Springs Trailhead. 

RESTRICTIONS

  • Bicycles are not permitted on the PCT.

  • Dogs are not allowed in the State Park. 

SAN JACINTO STATE PARK PERMIT INFORMATION

Permits are required for both day and overnight use. Day use permits are free and available 24 hours a day the following locations:

  • State Park Headquarters in Idyllwild

  • Long Valley Ranger Station on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway side

Wilderness Camping Permits are $5.00 per person and are available at the following locations: 

  • Park Headquarters in Idyllwild

  • Long Valley Ranger Station on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway side

  • Online application (must be printed and mailed): Wilderness Camping Permit

SAN JACINTO WILDERNESS PERMIT INFORMATION
Permits are required for day use and overnight trips. Permits are free and are available through the forest service. For more information please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev7_007800.
For information about free camping permits within the federal wilderness area please call the San Jacinto Ranger District (Friday - Tuesday: 8:00am - 4:30pm) 1-909-382-2921.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Deer Springs Trail

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic mountain views. Peaceful forest.

Cons

Some areas are very popular.

Trailhead Elevation

5,701.00 ft (1,737.66 m)

Highest point

9,035.00 ft (2,753.87 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Horseback riding
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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