Hiking Trail Guide: Los Pinos Peak

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Los Pinos Peak

Distance
2 miles

Elevation
500 feet gain

Difficulty
2/10

City
Lake Elsinore ,CA (92531) 55 miles from you Weather Map

Trailhead
From Interstate 5: Take the Ortega Highway (California 74) exit in San Juan Capistrano and proceed east for about 22 miles to Long Canyon Road (unsigned -- the first paved road on your left about .40 miles past the candy store). Follow Long Canyon for approximately 4 miles to the Main Divide Road. Turn left on the Main Divide Road, climbing until you reach the parking area at Los Pinos Saddle.

From Interstate 15: Take the Central Avenue (California 74) exit in Lake Elsinore and proceed west about 11 miles to Long Canyon Road (unsigned). Turn right on Long Canyon Road. Follow Long Canyon for approximately 4 miles to the Main Divide Road. Turn left on the Main Divide Road, climbing until you reach the parking area at Los Pinos Saddle.

The trailhead is unmarked. It begins at the west end of the parking lot. Do not confuse it with the nearby Trabuco Canyon Trail. The trail you want leads up.

Description

In the summertime, rangers open the gate to the Main Divide Road allowing you more direct access to this short ridgeline trail. Your ascent begins abruptly from the parking area, up a talus-strewn slope. The worst is over once you have attained this first summit. You'll drop down another saddle and then climb Los Pinos Peak proper.

The peak lies past a thicket. Look for the trail register among the stones and sign it. If you wish, you may continue along Los Pinos Ridge for several miles. Due to blockage by a private owner, however, you must return the way you came.

Expect brilliant wildflowers in the late springtime. The trail is not shaded, so bring a hat and water.

Map / Directions: