Discovery Hike, Secrets of the Backcountry

Step outside the familiar bounds of the trail with hike leaders who chart an initial course using only basic topographic data from aerial maps. The rest? Left to discovery—revealed only by boots on the ground. What secrets lie ahead in this mystery terrain? Perhaps sweeping views, tangled underbrush, rocky slopes, fallen trees, hidden ravines, or unexpected features that challenge and inspire.

But rest assured: while the adventure may feel wild and unscripted, your guides know this lesser-traveled quadrant of the park well. The exploration is carefully curated—strenuous, yes, but also exhilarating. Let your imagination run free as you prepare for a hike that feels like true discovery.

The hike will be between 5-6 miles.There is more to hiking than just every day walking. The guides are prepared to demonstrate techniques for walking on any type terrain - uneven -rocky or steep, etc. to provide greater stability and conserve energy. To that end hiking poles can be very useful, therefore strongly recommended

DETAILS (note: blue, bold lettering indicate links to important and helpful information.)

• Hike Leaders: Jack Pansegrau, Kathryn Burrows, veteran hiking guides
• Event Date and Time: Saturday, August 30 at 8:45 am departure
• Meet at: The Long Valley Ranger Station. Proceed from the ground floor terrace of the Mountain Station down the ramp to Long Valley. At the bottom turn right and follow the trail to the picnic table at the Ranger Station.
• Difficulty level: Moderatly strenuous. Hike will take place between 8300 ft. and 9500 ft. elevation
• Distance: 5-6 miles round trip. Perhaps a bit more.
• Cost: Registration is free. Tram tickets are $36.95 per adult. Parking is free for local residents with I.D. otherwise $15 per vehicle. Remember, NHA members receive a 20% ticket discount!

REQUIREMENTS

• Everyone must register online in advance to participate. Each participant must register with his or her own name only. No duplicate named registrations.
• Take the 8 am tram car to arrive at the meeting location on time ( for instructions on purchasing Tram tickets and arriving on time).
• Each person must bring their own water (We recommend a minimum of 3 liters of water per person). Snacks, lunch, and day hiking gear are required.
• Please Leave No Trace on the mountain.
• Anyone under the age of 18 (minimum age 14) must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
• Proper hiking attire, i.e. hiking clothes, hiking boots (not tennis shoes!), hat, sunglasses.
• Hiking poles are Strongly recommended.
• We will depart at 8:45 am and will return in mid-afternoon.
• You will need to sign a Release of Liability form which can be accessed for reading on line at You can print and sign in advance or it will be provided by your leader to sign when you meet.

Any questions, please contact us: Pansegrau Jack [email protected] or [email protected]

Host or Publisher Mt. San Jacinto Natural History Association