State: California
Location: Cleveland National Forest
Length, One-Way: 6.8 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 1600 feet
Maximum Elevation: 4400 feet
Best Season: Spring, Fall, Winter
Difficulty: More Difficult
Usage: Moderate
Trail Information
The trail immediately begins to climb out of the campground on a well-graded incline. The next mile contains some climbing leading to a set of switchbacks. A long strenuous climb ensues until the 3200′ elevation is reached. The trail then makes an easy southward traverse of a basin before resuming a climb to the southwest. A ridge ascent leads to another traverse and the crossing of the only potential water along the trail (seasonal). After crossing the drainage, a short set of stacked switchbacks is climbed leading to a climbing traverse to the trail terminus on the northwest ridge of Agua Tibia Mountain. This is the junction with the Palomar-Magee trail and occurs in a nice oak grove suitable for camping. (A visitor pass is required for overnight stays in the backcountry. Campfires are not permitted at any time).
Directions
From San Diego:
Take Interstate 15 north to Highway 79. Take Highway 79 south 11 miles to Dripping Springs. Turn right and park in Trailhead parking lot. The trail is reached by walking south from the parking lot 0.5 miles through Dripping Springs campground.
From the LA Basin:
Take Interstate 15 south to Highway 79 near Temecula. Take Highway 79 south 11 miles to Dripping Springs. Turn right and park in Trailhead parking lot. The trail is reached by walking south from the parking lot 0.5 miles through Dripping Springs campground.
A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to be displayed on your vehicle while parked at the trailhead.
