Pacific Crest Trail – Pyramid Peak
From I-15, north or southbound, exit Winchester Road (Hwy 79N) in Temecula, CA and head north to Hwy 74E and continue on through Hemet and up the slope to Mountain Center. Once you reach Mountain Center at the intersection of Hwy 243 to Idyllwild and Hwy 74 to Palm Springs, stay to your right and on the 74. In approx 8.5 miles, you will reach Morris Ranch Road on your left (there is a fire station on the corner). Turn left here.
Once on Morris Ranch Road, drive approx 3.5 miles, passing the Joe Scherman Girl Scouts of America Camp. On the right, you will come to a gate with a sign for “Cedar Springs Trail.” Park where you can and post your National Adventure Pass.
Dress for the season, and always make sure to check the weather before you leave the house. The weather was cold today. On the peak it was downright bone-chilling because of all the wind whipping about. For the first 3/4 mile the trail alternates between trail and road and switchbacks up to the Pacific Crest Trail. Watch your step because alot of horses use this trail…
You will pass through 3 gates (not including the trailhead gate). The first gate was marked “Keep closed” and the next two were maked “Keep Open”.
Once you reach the junction with the PCT, turn right and continue on for about another mile until you see two cairns on your right. You’ll see Pyramid Peak above you and slightly to the right. The trail up to the peak can be a scramble in spots, but it isn’t terribly steep. There were a couple old markers on some trees, but you really don’t need them to find your way. We found two survey markers at the top, but the pen in the summit log didn’t work and for once we weren’t packing one. We’ve resolved to sign it next time we come up this way.
Look out for Mountain Lions. We were growled at twice on the way back.
Miles covered: ~7 round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,700
Rating: Easy
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