Deer Springs Trailhead — Attraction in Idyllwild-Pine Cove

Wow, I fell in love with Idyllwild when I first came a few years ago with friends. I had only heard about the town before then and since I've always felt like I I had to come back. For me it literally feels like I'm in a different world so to speak. Hiked Deer Springs Trail this Saturday (yesterday) absolutely nothing like the other trails I've hiked in the past. Unfortunately when I was here last we only got to hike a 1/4 of the way up. My buddy kept saying as we were ascending, it just keeps getting better and better. I honestly can't begin to describe how beautiful and serene the trail, the wilderness and mountain ranges are. Made it up to the junction for the San Jacinto peak, Little Round Valley, Strawberry Junction and Suicide Rock. We decided for this trip we'd take Suicide Rock, yeah I know it sounds very warm and inviting trust me the names are intimidating sometimes but remember it's the history behind the name. Unless it's named '' I will take your life or it's slow and agonizing death mountain'' then you know.... DON'T GO! But a great hike views are absolutely beautiful there was definitely quite a bit of other hikers there at the trail head but rarely came across anyone else along the trail. Kind of felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Didn't get a chance to see much wildlife but we definitely heard it. About half way up there is a huge flat rock cliff legde nice place for pics of Taquitz spire and peak. Just be very careful when venturing close to the edge. Plenty of shade and places to stop for water breaks and snacks. There are no facilities at the trailhead but there are at the Idyllwild wilderness center. They have souvenirs and other things you can pick up there snacks and drinks to. The rangers are super cool great info and very helpful. Great place for the kids and bathroom breaks. Would recommend you talk to them if your unsure about where you are or going. They can definitely get you where you need to be. Looks like you can camp there as well your going to definitely need the necessary permits for that to. Don't know what and how many permits would be required you can always go to the website for info. There is a fee to park at the wilderness center but parking is free for deer springs trail. You do need a adventure pass I believe if it's for just a day hike. That is right at the trailhead along the road and some across the street from the trailhead. You can always check with the rangers for permit or permits you need. You really need to go and experience this one for yourselves. Your not going to regret it, get out and gain...

You'll need a permit to explore in the San Jacinto wilderness- so make sure you come prepared. I went through 3/4 gallon of water when I hiked to Suicide Rock via the Deer Springs Trail.

It was a great hike. The trail was a bit hard to follow at times, but nothing too difficult. Very strenuous. There was a constant incline, and I had a pretty heavy pack on, had to stop a few times to catch my breath. Tons of beautiful views and the trail is well shaded, so you should be fine regarding sun exposure and heat. But, bring water, and try to wear a short sleeve shirt if you can, because it does get very hot.

Watch for snakes. Saw two, both garter snakes. One baby and one adult. Just minding their own business to the side of the trail about 3/4 way to Suicide Rock.

I started around 8:00 AM, and ended around 1:00 PM including the 45-60 minutes I spent at the top eating lunch, taking photos, and relaxing. There are a ton of great views- you'll regret not doing this hike when you spend time in...

The first approximately two miles are largely manzanita and oak trees (worth coming back for to see fall colors if you get the timing right), with a few peeks through the trees (the views are better going back down). The mile to Suicide Rock has better views of Tahquitz and the surrounding area, plus a couple of easy creek crossings.

Once you’re at the main viewpoint (which is a big payoff), I suggest walking around a bit and exploring the different views, which are quite spectacular and look down at Idyllwild. AllTrails noted a “true peak,” so I looked around for an unofficial trail of foot tracks, but couldn’t find anything leading up to what looked like would be blocked views by trees anyway.

The trail has plenty of shade. Expect an uphill hike with some big steps. However, unlike Devil’s Slide, this trail evens out every so often, giving you a few seconds to catch your breath. I would rate it as moderately difficult. If you can handle the elevation change, you can...