San Gorgonio Summit Camp

I summited at around 6:30pm via south fork trail through dry lake. Overnighted at the summit with only one other hiker that I saw. The hike itself is about 20 mi. round trip, it’s a long one, doable in one day but you gotta move. This is a scenic trail, beautiful views, not as challenging as Vivian creek. Dry lake was full and the streams were running strong. The trail early on varies in terrain; it’s rocky, muddy, and presents thick vegetation(lots of bugs), but at higher elevations it’s dirt and rock. Did not see any wildlife this time but met a few hunters who tagged bear and deer. I was blessed with great weather, a nice 70 degrees with a light breeze. Lower elevations were cooler. However, temperatures at night hit below freezing, with strong winds at the summit, it was a tough night. Please prepare accordingly. Views were breathtaking at the top. Not an easy one but definitely rewarding, highly recommend exploring the San Gorgonio wilderness! Happy exploring :)

Vivian Creek is one of the campsites on the way to Gorgonio Peak. We camped at the Peak. It is a long hike mostly due to the altitude. The last few miles seem like they take forever. We ended up getting to the peak camp around 10pm. It was pretty cold and dark by then. There are plenty of rock barrier campsites to protect us from the wind. Amazing view of the sunrise in the AM. Definitely worth heading up to the peak for a great view of the sunset/sunrise if you get the chance. Not many people camp up there. When we were there only 1 other individual was camping at the peak.

This was probably one of the most epic camping experiences ever, but I wouldn't do it again.  The hike to the peak was nuts - we stayed at halfway camp in negative degree weather - and then summited on day 2.  My hands turned yellow from holding my pack and accidentally cutting off circulation and my boyfriend got altitude sickness with 50 feet to go.  It was rough.  But we summited right at sunset and after a quick celebration picture we hurried to set up our tent and crash.  There are a few "campspots" that people have outlined with a rock barrier to protect from wind, although it was still insanely difficult to set up camp in that blowing wind and cold air.  One quick sip of whiskey and then we were out like a light.  Morning came fast and the wind never quit so we packed up camp and hiked down for 20 minutes before pulling out coffee to have breakfast in peace.  There were a couple kids who hiked in shorts and barely any equipment - they were crazy & in love and I'm sure didn't know what they were getting themselves into.