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Devils Slide to Saddle Junction


Highlights:

Breathtaking views of Tahquitz and Suicide Rocks, wonderful pine forest
Near:Idyllwild, CA
Scenery:
Distance:5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1700 ft
Hike Time:3 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: This is a great introductory hike into the San Jacinto Wilderness, with spectacular views of both Tahquitz (also known as Lily) and Suicide Rocks. Both these spectacular granite formations are popular rock climbing destinations. The trail moves steadily up 1700 feet over moderate switchbacks and a mostly pine shaded trail. The trail levels out near the top as you enter into Saddle Junction, a gateway leading to many other trails in this lovely wilderness area.
Trailhead: From Idyllwild, turn east on North Circle Drive. Proceed north for over a mile until you reach South Circle Drive. Turn right, and then take your first left onto Fern Valley Road. Take the Fern Valley road to Humber Park, about 2 miles from downtown. (Lat:33.765941 Lon:-116.685083)
Trail Guides for Devils Slide to Saddle Junction:
100 Great hikes in and near Palm Springs
by Philip Ferranti  (Westcliffe Publishers)

Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
User Groups: Hikers
Ranger Contact: US Forest Service, 909-659-2117
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted  104 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 2 of 2   Submit your own review
Reviewed by Nichole on 11/19/2004
This is a great hike with wonderful views of both rocks. The early morning light on the rocks make for great photos and made me wish I had remembered to bring the camera. My husband and I hiked it late spring of this year, and went further to the fire lookout. Good views, almost 360, but the afternoon haze was beginning to set in. I'm sure the view is clear and beautiful this time of year, can't wait to hike it again.

Reviewed by Lyle on 11/18/2004
11/17/04.....Hiked from Humber Park past Saddle Junction(SJ)to Skunk Cabbage Meadow(SCM). Weather was cool & windy with good trail conditions. Spotty patches of snow @ two-thirds of the way up to SJ, with about 4 inches of snow from SJ to SCM. Coming back down was a beautiful view of the setting sun glistening off the Pacific Ocean in the distant West.

Reviewed by elh on 10/29/2004
Hiked on 10/18/04. Misty, foggy, with a little rain and mud. Beautiful hike. Fog, rocks and trees. Saw noone on the way up until just before the junction. Forest Services worker on the way down. Look forward to going further next time! Thank-you!

Reviewed by Anita M. on 9/29/2004
Loved It! This is a great hike! The beautiful views are breathtaking! It's a bit more strenuous than it looks in some spots but well worth it! I would definitely recommend it!


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Riverside County Hiking, Riverside County Trails, Riverside County Hikes

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