Trip Description: 

Rating: Easy

Route: We will explore the trails on Thomas Mountain. The trails are hard-packed dirt trails that wind up to the summit at 6,825 feet. It is a fun and fairly easy dirt trail that winds through oaks and pinyons to grassy meadows, then tall pines and cedars with fir trees at the highest levels. There are primitive campgrounds at the top for those that want to camp. Saturday we will enter Rouse Hill Truck Trail at the Cranston Station and go up to the Thomas Mountain trail and camp. Sunday descend down Thomas Trail to the 74. Head South on the 74 to 371 to 79 West back to the 15 in Temecula.

Time & Place to Meet:

• Meet: Saturday, Sept. 23, 9:00 am, Depart: 9:30 am
• Where: Park & Ride, Deer Springs/Mountain Meadow exit from I-15. Please arrive fueled up.

What to bring:

• Required:
  • All-terrain tires and full-sized spare
  • Any emergency & recovery gear you may have
  • Any necessary tire changing tools, including anti-theft lug nut keys
  • Sufficient fuel for your vehicle
  • Meals and snacks for both days.
  • Drinking water (Gallon per day per person, consider pet’s needs if applicable)
  • Camping gear appropriate for primitive camping
  • (1) Bundle of firewood (at least, if camping)
• Recommended:
  • High ground clearance
  • Vehicle armor (sliders, etc.)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Amateur 2m radio with external antenna (very highly recommended)
• Recommended if camping:
  • Weather can be unpredictable – checking the National Weather Service report is recommended.

Destination information: Mount San Jacinto State Park
Frequency: 2M: 147.580 MHz
RSVP/Register: Sign up below
Trail Leader: Don Fansler