In startling contrast to the balmy holiday destination of Palm Springs below, Mount San Jacinto State Park cools visitors at 8,516 feet. From the Mountain Station, visitors can view Palm Springs and massive fields of windmills spread out as well. To the south-east, visitors can see the Salton Sea on the horizon. To the west, there are magnificent vistas of snow capped mountains.
View of the Salton Sea to the south-east in the far distance.
There are a variety of hikes for different skill levels. There is even a trail that hikers can scale from the base of the mountain to the Mountain station. In the winter, it is a very short walk to snow. Before traveling further into the park, however, it is important to talk with local rangers to learn about the availability of trails. In the winter, particularly, snow and ice can make trails inaccessibly and the rangers will close them. Many visitor’s who intend to explore further into the park in the winter may bring snow shoes. Families may not want to wander too far but will find a use for any sleds that they bring up with them.
Mt. San Jacinto State Park is an ecological island, supporting high elevation flora and fauna while surrounded by desert.
When planning a trip, be sure to check the weather. Even in the middle of winter, many people will come up the mountain without heavy coats, water proof shoes, or gloves. It is hard to fathom the cold of the mountain while in the warmth of Palm Springs, but a lack of proper gear can negatively effect your enjoyment of the visit.
View of Palm Springs sprawling to the east of Mt. San Jacinto.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The tramway travels along 13,100 feet of cable from the Palm Springs basin to the Mountain Station.
The mountain is particularly easy to access through the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, with the world’s largest rotating tram cars. The ride offers both stunning views of the mountain cliffs and the shrinking valley below. But don’t let the short and scenic trip bely the change in elevation. The tram travels from 2,643 to 8,516 feet and the air is significantly thinner. It can be tempting to run around but be careful to not overexert yourself.
Eastern view of windmills in the Coachella Valley.