The wilderness beyond the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway mountain station extends for 14,000 acres and is crowned by Mt San Jacinto (10,384ft). Except for the easy but still rewarding nature trails around Long Valley right below the station, hikers need to obtain a free day-use permit from the nearby ranger station. The most popular wilderness hike is the 4.5-mile Round Valley loop, while the most challenging is the 11-mile round-trip up Mt San Jacinto (summer only). Expect snow from November to April.
Applications for wilderness camping permits ($5 per person, check or money order only) can be mailed up to eight weeks, but no fewer than 10 days, in advance. See the website for the form and instructions.
