Hiking Jean Peak from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Jean Peak, located in the San Jacinto Mountains, promises a rewarding hiking adventure with breathtaking views and a rich historical backdrop. This guide will provide history, trail instructions, expected scenery, safety tips, and a packing list to ensure a memorable experience.

History and Significance of the San Jacinto Mountains

The San Jacinto Mountains, part of the Peninsular Ranges in Southern California, are named after Saint Hyacinth. The highest point, San Jacinto Peak, stands at 10,834 feet, offering one of North America’s most dramatic elevation gains. These mountains have been a significant landmark for centuries, revered by early Native American tribes, such as the Cahuilla, who considered them sacred.

Jean Peak, named by a US Geological Survey topographer in honor of his future wife, Jean Waters, is located just south of San Jacinto Peak. Its diverse ecosystems, from desert to alpine environments, make it a unique destination for hikers.

Jean Peak Hike Overview

 Jean Peak lies 0.6 miles south of San Jacinto Peak, the second-highest peak in southern California. Jean is one of two named high points on the ridge that form the backbone of the San Jacinto Mountains; the other is Marion Mountain.

As you ascend from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Jean Peak, you’ll encounter a variety of scenic vistas. Enjoy views of Chino Canyon as you climb the mountains in the tramcar. You will be greeted with an alpine forest at the Mountain Station.  Once you start hiking, you’ll pass through dense pine, fir, and cedar forests, providing a cool and refreshing contrast to the desert heat below. The trail features picturesque meadows and babbling streams, especially in the spring and early summer when snowmelt feeds the waterways. Look for local wildlife, including mule deer, squirrels, and bird species.

Trail Length: 11-mile loop

Elevation Gain: 2,620 feet

Difficulty: Challenging

Duration: 5 – 6 hours

Best Time to Hike: June – October (to avoid snow)

Getting There: Start at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Head to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. You will pay a parking fee at the gate, and they will direct you to the appropriate lot.

Purchase your ticket to the tram at the Mountain Station. The tickets are time-stamped for designated ride times. While you are there, visit the gift shop and enjoy the views.

The tramway takes you from the desert floor to Mountain Station at 8,516 feet. It is the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway, starting in the Sonoran Desert and ending in an alpine zone. The floor slowly turns during the ride, allowing everyone to share the best views. The tram crosses over five towers, with the car experiencing a small swing after going over them. The ride is an experience, offering rotating views of Chino Canyon and the surrounding areas.

Once you reach the Mountain Station, go outside and see the sweeping views from the observation decks.

When you are finished, go downstairs and exit the building. Follow the sidewalk to the ranger station, where you can obtain a hiking permit.

The tram closes for maintenance in September, so check before you go.

Hiking Permits

Wilderness permits are required for hiking in the area. Self-issue permits are available at the ranger station near the Mountain Station.

Jean Peak Trail Directions

Follow the marked trail towards San Jacinto Peak from Mountain Station.

Continue about ¼ mile to a trail junction with a sign to Round Valley.

Keep right and continue to Round Valley Campground. Turn right at the junction.

You will cross 2 small bridges and then make a sharp turn left. Now, you start climbing, and this section can be rocky.

After about 2 miles, you will come to the Round Valley Loop junction. Stay left.

Keep hiking toward San Jacinto Peak. After about 2.5 miles, turn left at the Round Valley sign, elevation 9,100 feet.

Keep climbing up through the pine forest toward Wellman’s Divide. You will pass a seasonal Ranger Station and campground.

After about .8 miles past Round Valley, you will reach the Wellman Divide.

Keep right. You’ll reach a group of boulders, which is a great place to rest, take in the views, and have a bite to eat before the final ascent to the summit.

Credit: Terry HartlKeep right of the boulders and continue heading 2.7 miles toward the San Jacinto Peak. You will climb through more alpine forests until you reach unobstructed sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains, including Cornell Peak.

Hike another short stretch through massive granite boulders and a bit of a rocky climb. Look for the trail to turn left.

Keep heading uphill, and you will see Jean Peak. At the ridge, the trail heads into the trees. Soon, you’ll see the refuge hut, built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) under the New Deal and billed as “the highest building in Southern California.”

Just past the hut, the path winds to the left, climbing the rocks and boulders to the top. The trees will end, and you will see the summit marker.

At 10,670 feet, the summit offers a peaceful escape with fewer crowds compared to San Jacinto. The views are spectacular, stretching across the San Jacinto Mountains, Coachella Valley, and San Bernardino Mountains. Sunrises and sunsets here are breathtaking, with the changing light casting dramatic shadows over the landscape.

Safety Tips

Check the Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly; always check the forecast.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water—dehydration happens faster at high altitudes.
Layer Your Clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly from base to summit.
Navigation: Carry a map or GPS device, as trails near the summit can be confusing.
First Aid: Always bring a basic first aid kit.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses to protect from UV exposure.

Packing List

Water: 2-3 liters.
Food: High-energy snacks and a packed lunch.
Clothing: Layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support.
Navigation: Map, compass, or GPS.
First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and personal medications.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Trekking Poles: For stability on uneven terrain.
Emergency Supplies: Whistle, fire starter, and flashlight.

Hiking Jean Peak offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Southern California’s most iconic mountain ranges. With its natural beauty, rich history, and rewarding summit, this hike is perfect for those looking to challenge themselves while immersing in the diverse landscapes of the San Jacinto Mountains.

You May Also Like:

The Ultimate Guide to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Hiking Trail: Mt. San Jacinto Peak

10 Popular Palm Springs Hikes