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The shortest and steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio.


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Map Key

16.3

Miles

26.3

KM

Out and Back

11,492' 3,503 m

High

6,091' 1,856 m

Low

5,484' 1,672 m

Up

5,484' 1,671 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

56%

Max Grade (29°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

Gain one of San Bernardino National Forest's most beautiful peaks on this awesome hike. Though difficult, the views from the top make it well worth the journey.

Description

The trailhead is reached by turning east off Highway 38 to Forest Falls. Continue through Forest Falls to the top end (east end) of the Falls Picnic Area at the end of the road.

One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100').

Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. Turn right onto San Bernardino Peak Trail and finally gain the San Gorgonio summit. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio.

History & Background

San Gorgonio is the highest peak in the San Bernardino National Forest rising to 11,502 feet.

Contacts

Shared By:

Justin Johnsen

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 33 votes

#315

Overall
  4.8 from 33 votes
5 Star
82%
4 Star
15%
3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#45

in California

#315

Overall
26 Views Last Month
9,112 Since Mar 11, 2015
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
15%
7%
70%
7%

Photos

Vivian Falls - Forest Falls, CA, USA
Apr 22, 2015 near Banning, CA
Approaching the summit of San Gorgonio Mountain, a.k.a. "Old Greyback"
Aug 24, 2016 near Big Bea…, CA
Top of Mt. San Gorgonio
Jun 27, 2019 near Big Bea…, CA
Vivian Falls - Forest Falls, CA, USA
Apr 22, 2015 near Banning, CA
Mill Creek
Apr 22, 2015 near Banning, CA
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