Take the 243 from Banning or Mountain Center. The parking area is marked with a sign that says Deer Springs Trail Parking. It is right across from the San Jacinto State Park. The parking is easy to find, and the myriad trails from the parking area lead to the actual trail, just keep going up.
I hiked this trail on a Friday and I wasn't expecting to see anyone, but I ran into a fellow hiker named Matt. Interestingly enough he had come to hike in the San Jacintos because of my Fuller Ridge to San Jacinto hike posted on this very site. I hope he becomes a reporter here.
It is surprising how little the rangers know about their respective parks, and I have yet to run into one on any hike, let alone State Parks.
An adventure pass is required for parking and a free permit is also required for the San Jac Wilderness.
Description
This is a beautiful relatively easy (but very uphill) hike through the lush wonders of the San Jacintos. You will enjoy every minute. Suicide Rock is a great place to peer over the edge and contemplate life. You can also wonder what life might have been like for the Cahuilla version of Romeo and Juliet who legend says ended their lives here.
The views are standard fare for the San Jacinto Wilderness - that is amazing. You get a great shot across Strawberry Valley at Lily Rock and Tahquitz Peak, and you can take in the heights looking up at Marion Mountain and Jean Peak.
Don't miss the short trek to the peak, where there is a register in a smiley face can at the top. Feel free to explore all around the edge of Suicide Rock, there are plenty of viewing platforms, but do be careful near the edge.
Map / Directions:
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