Vivian Creek Trail & High Creek Camp

The Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Mountain is a demanding ascent that rewards your effort with incredibly diverse scenery. You'll start in a wooded canyon, transition to lush sections alongside Vivian Creek with its babbling waters, and then climb through changing forest types. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up to exposed alpine slopes and boulders, culminating in the broad, rocky expanse of the Mount San Gorgonio Summit. This difficult 17.9 miles (28.7 km) route involves a substantial 5358 feet (1633 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 9 hours and 57 minutes to complete.

Planning your trip requires a free wilderness permit, which you can obtain online. This is the shortest and steepest path to the summit, so be prepared for a relentless uphill climb and ensure you carry plenty of water, especially for the exposed upper sections. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's a popular spot, so an early start is recommended to secure a space and beat the crowds.

San Gorgonio Mountain, affectionately known as "Old Grayback," stands as Southern California's highest peak, making this hike a significant achievement for any enthusiast. The trail serves as an excellent high-altitude training ground for those preparing for other major climbs like Mt. Whitney. From the summit, you're treated to expansive 360-degree panoramic views that can stretch from the Pacific Ocean to the Mojave Desert on clear days, showcasing the dramatic escarpment of the mountain's north face.