San Jacinto Peak

San Jacinto Peak sits in California's desert region and reaches an elevation of 10,834 feet (3,302 meters) above sea level. Its slopes show different climate zones from dry valley floors to forested and alpine areas near the summit.

In September 1874, an explorer named F. from Riverside became the first documented climber to reach this summit. The region previously served the Cahuilla for centuries as sacred territory and hunting grounds.

The Cahuilla called this mountain I a kitch, meaning smooth cliffs, and view it as the home of their spiritual figure Dakush. This connection to indigenous tradition remains part of the regional identity to this day.

The tram in Palm Springs brings visitors to an upper starting point where several trails begin. Depending on the chosen route, the ascent takes between five and six hours, and altitude adjustment is recommended.

The north face rises over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) within just 7 miles (11 kilometers) of horizontal distance, forming one of the steepest landforms in North America. This extreme elevation change over a short distance makes the region geologically remarkable.

Location: Riverside County

Elevation above the sea: 3,302 m

GPS coordinates: 33.81446,-116.67918

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:07