South Fork Trail to Dry Lake (San Gorgonio)

This strenuous hike in the hills north of San Gorgonio will start at 8:00 at the South Fork Trailhead parking lot (on Jenks Lake West). We will follow the well-marked trail to the intersection with Dry Lake Trail, cross the creek and proceed uphill to Dry Lake. Along this ~11 mile walk we will enjoy views of San Gorgonio Peak. We will ascend ~2200 feet over 5.5 miles of the hike, so get ready for a great cardio workout! We will take a break at the creek (excellent water source!) and plan for lunch on the edge of Dry Lake.

A fire in 2015 decimated much of this area, but the trail has re-opened and it is quite interesting to see the return of succession species, as well as having some fabulous views. The trail is well-defined and no rock scrambling or climbing is involved. There are numerous switchbacks and some minor exposure along some of the slopes. Hiking poles are recommended to save your joints on the downhill stretch, as well as for stream crossings. Although the trail is well-maintained, there are some brushy areas so long pants should be considered.

There is water available on the trail, so bring filtering or chemicals if you want to replenish your hydration from the local sources. We will maintain a medium pace based on terrain (faster on the flat, slower going up/down).  Everyone should park at the South Fork trailhead parking lot (see map below), which requires a permit. Permits can be obtained at any USFS office or you can use a National Park or State Park pass if you have one. The leader will obtain the necessary wilderness permit.

Map here: https://caltopo.com/m/5TG8B26

For driving directions, search for ‘South Fork Trailhead 1E04’ in your favorite map application. The TH is about 1.25 hrs from Palm Springs. We can discuss carpooling after sign-ups.

• Altitude gain: 2200 feet  (Start 6899, Top 9111) 
• Cumulative altitude gain: 2312 feet
• Distance: 11.2 miles
• Pace: 2.0 MPH, 6- 6.5 hours
• Terrain: packed trail, stream crossings
• Obstacles: nothing significant
• Difficulty rating:  Strenuous (due to length)

Please email  the leader to sign up for this hike or RSVP below.

HIKE LEADER:  Diane Petrilla
HIKE LOCATOR:  South Fork Trailhead
HIKE DATE/TIME: Friday October 16, 2026, 0800.

Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club!   Join Now!