Storm Canyon Overlook

The Laguna Mountain Ridge via the PCT offers a diverse and rewarding hiking experience, showcasing the dramatic eastern escarpment of the Laguna Mountains. You'll traverse varied terrain from chaparral to pine forests, with nearly continuous, expansive views over the Anza-Borrego Desert. On clear days, you might even spot the Salton Sea from viewpoints like Storm Canyon Overlook, making this a visually rich and engaging route.

This difficult 18.2-mile (29.4 km) hike involves 1353 feet (412 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 8 hours and 8 minutes. Access is convenient via the Sunrise Scenic Byway, which runs parallel to the trail. Be aware that strong winds can add to the challenge, and snow is possible in winter and early spring at these higher elevations, so check conditions before you go.

What makes this section of the PCT truly notable are the stunning, high-elevation desert views, often described as 'Kodachrome gold and pink' at sunrise. It's considered one of the most accessible and rewarding parts of the Pacific Crest Trail in Southern California, offering a taste of long-distance hiking with the convenience of multiple entry points. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including hawks and rabbits, as you explore this unique landscape.

Hike the moderate 10.1-mile Big Laguna Trail loop through diverse forests and meadows in Cleveland National Forest, with lake and desert vie

Embark on the Desert View Picnic Area – Storm Canyon Overlook loop from Mount Laguna for a hike that feels like two trails in one. You'll start amidst the cool, fragrant pine forests and mountain meadows, then transition to the dramatic, arid landscape of the Storm Canyon Overlook, which plunges thousands of feet into the Anza-Borrego Desert. This moderate 9.7-mile (15.6 km) loop involves 990 feet (302 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 4 hours and 21 minutes, offering a rewarding journey through diverse ecosystems.

To plan your visit, note that the Desert View Picnic Area provides a good starting point with facilities. An Adventure Pass is necessary for parking in designated areas within the Cleveland National Forest. For the most spectacular, far-reaching views across the desert, choose a day with clear skies. The Mount Laguna area is generally accessible, but checking local conditions, especially after rain, is always a good idea.

This loop integrates portions of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, giving you a taste of its vastness and varied terrain. The Mount Laguna area, sitting at around 6,000 feet above sea level, boasts a unique blend of Jeffrey pines, oaks, and desert chaparral, creating a distinct ecological transition as you move from montane to desert climates. It's a fantastic way to experience the dramatic natural contrasts of Southern California.