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Hike to the top of Mill Creek Jumpoff

Forest Falls, California

Details

Distance

3 miles

Elevation Gain

2400 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Christian Soto

This is a nice hike that provides seclusion from the hustle and bustle of life in Southern California. There is rarely anyone else on the trail and if you are looking for solitude and a sense of adventure within a 90 minute drive from where you live, this is the spot.

You will need an adventure pass to park at the trail head. Get there before noon on weekends (the picnic area parking lots get full)

Starting at the parking lot to the Vivian Creek Trail that leads to San Gorgonio, follow the path to the right of the creek until about .5 miles and you will see a sign that points to the trail. On the other side of the creek you will see a sign that directs to the Vivian Creek Trail however, instead of crossing the creek, turn right and head up the side of the creek. 

There is a use trail for about .25 miles then you just have to find your own route up the creek. There is only one way to go so you can't get lost. Follow the dry creek bed for 1 mile until you reach a small waterfall. At this point you will have to maneauver to the right of the waterfall (you will see cairns that lead the way). 

After another mile you will reach the base of the Mill Creek head-wall. At this point it's mostly a scramble to the top of the jump off. It will take you around 30-45 minutes (depending on your fitness level, rock/sand conditions, and comfort level with exposure) to reach the top. 

Once at the top, you can see over to the San Jacinto Mountain Ranges and Morongo Canyon Preserve. As you reach the top of the jump off, you will also see Galena Peak to the right. Looking back you will be able to see the valley and Gorgonio ranges. Enjoy it, and spend a few minutes up there to reflect on life. 

Be careful on the way down as there are rock slides and you can step on a loose rock and slip. 

One way distance: 3 miles

Round trip distance: 6 miles

One way trip time: 2-4 hours

Total trip time: 4-6 hours

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