- Region
- CA, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Free wilderness permits are required for d…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service, San Bernardino National Forest, and Bureau of Land Management
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San Gorgonio Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of San Gorgonio Wilderness
How to get there
Highway 38 provides access to the listed approaches. Turn east toward Forest Falls for Vivian Creek and Momyer Creek. At Angelus Oaks, reach the San Bernardino Peak trailhead via Manzanita, the frontage road paralleling Highway 38, and FS road 1W07. Jenks Lake Road serves South Fork and the turnoff for Forsee Creek. For Aspen Grove and Fish Creek, use Coon Creek Jump Off Road (1N02), then Fish Creek Road (1N05); these roads close in winter after the first significant snowfall. Check current road conditions and fire restrictions before departure.
- Vivian Creek Trailhead
Reached by turning east off Highway 38 toward Forest Falls. The trailhead is approximately 6,200 feet in elevation. An Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass is required for parking.
- South Fork Trailhead
On Jenks Lake Road, 2.5 miles from Highway 38. Park in the large paved lot; the trail begins on the opposite side of the road across from the vault toilet. An Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass is required for parking.
- San Bernardino Peak Trailhead
In Angelus Oaks, turn east off Highway 38 onto Manzanita, then immediately left onto the frontage road. Turn right onto FS road 1W07 and stay right up the dirt road for 300 yards to the trailhead.
- Forsee Creek Trailhead
Turn southeast from Highway 38 onto Jenks Lake Road West. After one-quarter mile, take the signed dirt road on the right. This rough, rocky approach is not intended for low-clearance vehicles.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
CA, USA · United States
- Fishing
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Backpacking
Sub-alpine country above Southern California
San Gorgonio Wilderness occupies the southeastern San Bernardino Mountains, with forest, meadows and high mountain terrain above the dry country surrounding the range. Within Sand to Snow National Monument, it protects 96,595 acres jointly managed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Much of the wilderness lies above 7,000 feet, and San Gorgonio Mountain is the highest peak in California south of the Sierra Nevada. Two small lakes and extensive forest add variety beyond the summit country. Bears, deer, mountain lions and bighorn sheep share this isolated habitat with threatened and endangered species; give wildlife space and keep food secured. Designated in 1964, San Gorgonio was among the country's first designated wilderness areas. Its human history also includes surveying: the 10,624-foot summit of San Bernardino Peak served as the initial point for mapping Southern California in 1852.
Choosing an approach and preparing for conditions
The National Forest portion has 81 miles of trails, while roughly 20 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail cross the Bureau of Land Management portion. Choose an approach around your experience, vehicle and current conditions rather than treating the trailheads as interchangeable. Vivian Creek and Momyer Creek are reached through Forest Falls; South Fork has a large paved parking area on Jenks Lake Road. Forsee Creek requires a rough, rocky access road unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. The Forest Service recommends wilderness trails for intermediate to expert hikers. Snow and ice make exposed, steep terrain dangerous, requiring appropriate equipment and training, not simply extra clothing. Roads serving Aspen Grove and Fish Creek close after the first significant winter snowfall. Water also needs advance planning: streams may stop flowing in late summer, so do not assume a mapped drainage will provide drinking water. Confirm availability and carry enough for the planned outing.
Permits, camping and wilderness rules
A free wilderness permit is required for day hikes and overnight trips on the San Bernardino National Forest portion of San Gorgonio Wilderness. That requirement does not apply to Bureau of Land Management lands. Request permits through the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner, up to 90 days in advance. Overnight permits are available for 24 backcountry campsites. A specific exception allows travel without a permit on the short Forest Service section of the Pacific Crest Trail in Section 31, Township 1 North, Range 3 East, San Bernardino Base and Meridian. Groups are limited to 12 people. Campfires are prohibited at all times; gas stoves require a free California Campfire Permit. Bicycles and hang gliders are prohibited, as is motorized equipment except where federally authorized. Parking at Vivian Creek and South Fork requires an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass, separate from the wilderness permit.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to San Gorgonio Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 34.0605, -116.6612
- Latitude (DMS)
- 34° 3′ 37.8″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 116° 39′ 40.3″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for San Gorgonio Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
San Gorgonio Mountain was originally known as "Old Grayback" by locals until officially designated by the US Geological Survey (from the Spanish heritage) on the original topographical map of the area...
Key takeaways
- Region: CA, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 34.061, -116.661
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at San Gorgonio Wilderness
- Fishing
Resident gamefish, seasons, and the water that holds them.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
Animals around San Gorgonio Wilderness
Sub-alpine country above Southern California
San Gorgonio Wilderness occupies the southeastern San Bernardino Mountains, with forest, meadows and high mountain terrain above the dry country surrounding the range. Within Sand to Snow National Monument, it protects 96,595 acres jointly managed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Much of the wilderness lies above 7,000 feet, and San Gorgonio Mountain is the highest peak in California south of the Sierra Nevada. Two small lakes and extensive forest add variety beyond the summit country. Bears, deer, mountain lions and bighorn sheep share this isolated habitat with threatened and endangered species; give wildlife space and keep food secured. Designated in 1964, San Gorgonio was among the country's first designated wilderness areas. Its human history also includes surveying: the 10,624-foot summit of San Bernardino Peak served as the initial point for mapping Southern California in 1852.
Choosing an approach and preparing for conditions
The National Forest portion has 81 miles of trails, while roughly 20 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail cross the Bureau of Land Management portion. Choose an approach around your experience, vehicle and current conditions rather than treating the trailheads as interchangeable. Vivian Creek and Momyer Creek are reached through Forest Falls; South Fork has a large paved parking area on Jenks Lake Road. Forsee Creek requires a rough, rocky access road unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. The Forest Service recommends wilderness trails for intermediate to expert hikers. Snow and ice make exposed, steep terrain dangerous, requiring appropriate equipment and training, not simply extra clothing. Roads serving Aspen Grove and Fish Creek close after the first significant winter snowfall. Water also needs advance planning: streams may stop flowing in late summer, so do not assume a mapped drainage will provide drinking water. Confirm availability and carry enough for the planned outing.
Permits, camping and wilderness rules
A free wilderness permit is required for day hikes and overnight trips on the San Bernardino National Forest portion of San Gorgonio Wilderness. That requirement does not apply to Bureau of Land Management lands. Request permits through the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner, up to 90 days in advance. Overnight permits are available for 24 backcountry campsites. A specific exception allows travel without a permit on the short Forest Service section of the Pacific Crest Trail in Section 31, Township 1 North, Range 3 East, San Bernardino Base and Meridian. Groups are limited to 12 people. Campfires are prohibited at all times; gas stoves require a free California Campfire Permit. Bicycles and hang gliders are prohibited, as is motorized equipment except where federally authorized. Parking at Vivian Creek and South Fork requires an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass, separate from the wilderness permit.
Route options
- Vivian Creek Trail
A wilderness hiking option accessed through Forest Falls, beginning at approximately 6,200 feet. Plan around mountain conditions and obtain the required National Forest wilderness permit.
- San Bernardino Peak Trail
An approach from Angelus Oaks associated with the wilderness's historic 10,624-foot San Bernardino Peak. Access involves a dirt-road section before the trailhead.
- South Fork Trail
A wilderness approach from Jenks Lake Road with a large paved parking area. The trail starts across the road from the lot; parking authorization and the wilderness permit are separate requirements.
- Fish Creek Trail
Reached via Coon Creek Jump Off Road (1N02) and Fish Creek Road (1N05), following 1N05 about 7 miles to the trailhead. Seasonal road closure after the first significant snowfall affects access.
- Lost Creek Trail
The trailhead is north of Highway 38, opposite South Fork Campground. The trail was severely damaged in the 2015 Lake Fire and is not advisable for travel; choose another approach.
Sample itineraries
- Vivian Creek day hike · 1 day
Reach Vivian Creek Trail via Forest Falls from Highway 38. Plan an out-and-back suited to fitness and conditions rather than assuming a summit attempt. These wilderness trails suit intermediate to expert hikers. Obtain a day-use permit and display an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass when parking.
- South Fork overnight · 2 days
Start at South Fork Trail on Jenks Lake Road. Arrange an overnight permit for an available backcountry campsite, then match the route to that campsite. Confirm water availability before departure, especially in late summer. Parking requires an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass; campfires are prohibited.
- San Bernardino Peak Trail day hike · 1 day
Access San Bernardino Peak Trail from Angelus Oaks via Manzanita, the frontage road and FS road 1W07. Make this an out-and-back with a turnaround chosen for conditions and ability. The namesake 10,624-foot peak was the initial survey point for Southern California. Obtain a day-use permit.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; check snow and ice conditions
Do not assume high-elevation trails are snow-free. Where snow or ice remains, steep, exposed terrain requires appropriate equipment and training. Confirm road access before choosing a trailhead.
Summer
Summer; water planning becomes especially important in late summer
Streams do not always flow in late summer, and locating water can be difficult. Confirm sources and carry enough water for uncertain availability. Check current fire restrictions; campfires are prohibited year-round.
Fall
Fall; plan around changing mountain conditions
Use current conditions rather than the calendar to choose a route. Carry layers for the high-elevation sub-alpine setting and verify water availability. Snow or ice on steep trails changes the equipment and skills needed.
Winter
Winter; road closures follow the first significant snowfall
Access roads serving Aspen Grove and Fish Creek close after the first significant snowfall. Snow and ice make steep, exposed trails dangerous. Winter travel requires proper gear, including traction devices and an ice axe where appropriate, plus experience using them.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; check snow and ice conditions | Do not assume high-elevation trails are snow-free. Where snow or ice remains, steep, exposed terrain requires appropriate equipment and training. Confirm road access before choosing a trailhead. |
| Summer | Summer; water planning becomes especially important in late summer | Streams do not always flow in late summer, and locating water can be difficult. Confirm sources and carry enough water for uncertain availability. Check current fire restrictions; campfires are prohibited year-round. |
| Fall | Fall; plan around changing mountain conditions | Use current conditions rather than the calendar to choose a route. Carry layers for the high-elevation sub-alpine setting and verify water availability. Snow or ice on steep trails changes the equipment and skills needed. |
| Winter | Winter; road closures follow the first significant snowfall | Access roads serving Aspen Grove and Fish Creek close after the first significant snowfall. Snow and ice make steep, exposed trails dangerous. Winter travel requires proper gear, including traction devices and an ice axe where appropriate, plus experience using them. |
Permits, fees & closures
Free wilderness permits are required for day hikes and overnight trips on San Bernardino National Forest lands, but not BLM lands. The specified short Forest Service PCT segment is exempt. Groups are limited to 12 people.
Fees: Day-use and overnight wilderness permits are free. Vivian Creek and South Fork trailhead parking requires an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass. Gas stoves require a free California Campfire Permit.
Reservations: Request day-use or overnight permits through the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association at https://www.sgwa.org/permits up to 90 days in advance. Overnight permits cover 24 backcountry campsites; check availability before building the route.
Official source: San Bernardino National Forest | San Gorgonio Wilderness · Verified November 4, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Snow and ice on steep, exposed trails can create dangerous travel conditions. Carry appropriate equipment and know how to use it.
- High elevations increase the physical demands of hiking. Pace conservatively and choose a turnaround that matches fitness and conditions.
- Streams may stop flowing in late summer. Do not rely on an unconfirmed water source.
- Lost Creek Trail was severely damaged in the 2015 Lake Fire and is not advisable for travel.
- The Forsee Creek access road is rough and rocky, and is not intended for low-clearance vehicles.
- Wildfire conditions can affect trip planning. Check current alerts and fire restrictions before departure; campfires are never allowed.
What to pack for San Gorgonio Wilderness
- Map and navigation tools
- Sturdy hiking footwear
- Headlamp
- First-aid kit
- Sun protection
- Water capacity sufficient for uncertain sources
- Water treatment
- Shelter and sleeping gear suited to mountain conditions
- Secure food storage
- Gas stove and California Campfire Permit if cooking
- Insulating layers
- Weather-resistant outer layer
- Gloves and warm hat
- Traction devices appropriate to conditions
- Ice axe when warranted, with training in its use
San Gorgonio Wilderness FAQ
- What kind of landscape is San Gorgonio Wilderness?
- This sub-alpine wilderness lies within Sand to Snow National Monument in the San Bernardino Mountains, with desert to the east. Much of it sits above 7,000 feet. Forests, meadows, streams and two small lakes occupy a landscape rising to San Gorgonio Mountain, Southern California's highest peak.
- Is this a good destination for beginner hikers?
- The Forest Service recommends wilderness trails here for intermediate to expert hikers. High elevations and steep, exposed terrain demand careful route selection. Avoid snow and ice unless equipped and trained for those conditions.
- Can a trip rely on stream water?
- Not without checking current availability. Numerous streams do not always flow in late summer, and finding water can be difficult. Plan carrying capacity around confirmed sources and treat collected water.
- Are campfires or cooking stoves allowed?
- Campfires are prohibited at all times. Gas stoves are allowed with a free California Campfire Permit. Check current fire restrictions before leaving.
- Which trailheads need extra access planning?
- Forsee Creek has a rough, rocky approach unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. Aspen Grove and Fish Creek access roads close in winter after the first significant snowfall. Vivian Creek and South Fork require an Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass for parking.
- Are bicycles and motorized equipment allowed?
- Bicycles and hang gliders are prohibited. Motor vehicles, motorboats and motorized equipment are prohibited except as authorized by federal law or regulation. Plan a nonmotorized visit without wheeled transport.