Mt San Jacinto Wilderness State Park

Lonely Planet review

Take time (a day or two if you're a backcountry enthusiast) to enjoy the Mt San Jacinto Wilderness State Park. There are 54 miles of trails, including a nontechnical route up to the San Jacinto peak (10,804ft), for hiking in summer, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. There are also several primitive campgrounds (free).

Anyone heading into the backcountry (even for a few hours) must register for a wilderness permit at the ranger station just outside the Mountain Station; for information and advance permits, contact the state park rangers. Pick up maps, books and gifts at the State Park Visitor Information Center at the Mountain Station.