This fun and adventurous hike begins at the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway . After a 15 min ride full of stunning views, you will reach the upper station where the temperature is about 25 degrees cooler than down In the valley.

Once here you will make your way down to the main trail. After checking in at the Ranger Station you will proceed on the main trail, using the trail markers as reference. From the ranger station its 5.5 miles to the peak. Now 5.5 miles might not seem like much but hiking at high elevation is a lot tougher than hiking down in the valley. The air is thinner making it harder to breath. For me, this was my first time hiking above 9,000 feet. It took me a while to adjust to the altitude. I took breaks often to let my lungs adjust.

Most of the hike is through a beautiful forest with towering pines and amazing rock formations. Once you reach Wellmans Divide the trail changes from a dirt trail to a narrow rocky uphill battle to Wellmans Junction. At 9700 feet Wellmans Junction is a great place for a quick break and to snap a few pictures.

From here it is 2.3 miles to the peak and the most difficult part of the hike if you ask me but the views along the ridge are amazing

Once you reach the next trail marker you are almost there just .3 miles away.! First you will see the Emergency Shelter Cabin . This is a great place to stop by and visit. There is also a book for everyone to sign. Here, hikers have left emergency supplies, water and other items to assist other hikers who may be in need of help.

After exiting the shelter all that separates you from the best view of So. Cal is a quick rock scramble up to the peak. This is where you your hard work will be rewarded. the views from the peak are absolutely AMAZING! In the distance you can see Santiago Peak and San Gorgonio. It is definitely a hike that I will do over and over again.

• 10,834 ft above sea level
• Stunning Views
• 11 miles round trip
• 6 hours, 4 up 2 back + time spent at peak
• Elevation gain 2300 feet
• Difficulty- moderate / strenuous