Hiking / Backpacking: Mount San Gorgonio

Summit elevation: 11,503 feet

Vivian Creek Trail: 19 miles with 5,200 feet of climbing

At 11,503 feet, Mount San Gorgonio is the highest peak in Southern California. It is one of three peaks with an altitude higher than 10,000 feet and with at least 500 meters prominence (the other two are Mount San Jacinto and Mount Baldy, from which it is separated by the San Andreas Fault).

The peak offers spectacular 360-degree views of the San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Ana Mountains, and Mojave Desert.

Vivian Creek Trail

Route Profile • Vivian Creek Trail

Vivian Creek Trail starts at the end of Forest Falls. After a section on the right of Mill Creek riverbed, it crosses the river and starts leading up the steep mountainside.

The trail then follows Vivian Creek to Vivian Creek Camp (water available). It continues climbing west, passes Halfway Camp and further ascends to High Creek Camp (water available).

A section of switchbacks leads up to a ridge above treeline. A steep straight section continues to Dollar Lake fork and Mineshaft Flat fork. From here it is a short distance to the summit plateau.

The other trails include South Fork Trail and Fish Creek Trail.