The hike up to the lookout tower through the San Jacinto Wilderness offers some of the most beautiful vistas in Southern California, including the Salton Sea to the southeast. The origin of Tahquitz's name is derived from the Cahuilla people's god Tahquish, who believe the peak to be the god's home.
At an elevation of 8,846 feet, this lookout is the highest within the San Bernardino National Forest, and the only one located within a designated Wilderness area. It is also the forest’s longest continuously operated station, serving some 77 years. (information from the USFS)
Starting from Humber Park in Idyllwild, this hike follows the forested Devil's Slide Trail up steady inclines through some notable damage from last year's rains to Saddle Junction, along the PCT to the spur up to Tahquitz Peak. USFS volunteer willing, we may have the opportunity to visit the opened fire station at the peak.
We will meet at the Denny's parking lot on the corner of Hwy 111 and Date Palm Dr in Cathedral City and drive to the Forest Service office in Idyllwild for a permit then on to Humber Park. An Adventure Pass or an Interagency Pass (one per car) is required for this location. Bring plenty of water and lunch/snacks, this is a long hike that will take between 5 and 6 hours to complete round trip (plus driving time of an 1hr 15min+ each way to/from Humber Park).
Description:
- Meeting place: Denny's Parking Lot, 69050 CA-111, Cathedral City, CA 92234 (MAP)
- Trail length: 8.3mi
- Elevation gain/loss: +2,309ft
- Difficulty rating: moderately strenuous
- Trip type: out and back
- Hiking time: 5-6hrs
- Type: trail
- Trail route: Devil's Slide trail from Humber Park in Idyllwild to Saddle Junction then the PCT to Tahquitz Peak spur and the fire station; return follows this same route.
- Terrain: well marked trail of packed earth and some rock with steady incline going through forest followed by a steep, rockier climb in more open sky up to the peak with a bit of minor bouldering at the top around the fire station.
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2-3 liters recommended), snacks/lunch, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread.
Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition and able to negotiate steeper uphill sections for this hike. Click here for more information.
Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike.
Please notify the hike leader you cannot make a hike for which you have registered, there may be a waitlist. Remember to be punctual at the meeting place or you will be left behind. You can cancel directly from your registration record or send an email to the hike leader.
Contact hike leader: Thomas W. email
Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Pets allowed? No.
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