San Gorgonio Wilderness

The San Gorgonio Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area in the San Bernardino National Forest, about 25 miles east of the city. Its 58,969 acres encompass two small lakes, mountain meadows, streams, and over 100 miles of trail. Elevations range from 4,400 feet to 11,499 feet at the summit of Mount San Gorgonio — the highest point in Southern California.

The wilderness is managed to preserve its natural character: no mechanized equipment is allowed, and overnight camping requires a permit (available from the ranger station in Mentone). Day hikes are possible without a permit. The trails are good, the mountain scenery excellent, and the contrast with the desert floor below is striking throughout the year.

things to do sight
A story
Mount San Gorgonio, at 11,499 feet, is the highest peak in Southern California. It is visible from much of the Inland Empire on clear winter days, dusted with snow while the valley floor bakes in the sun below. The peak has been climbed since the 1870s; the route most taken today follows the South Fork Trail from the Vivian Creek trailhead.