Burnt Rancheria Campground

The Laguna Mountain Ridge via the PCT offers a diverse and rewarding hiking experience, showcasing the dramatic eastern escarpment of the Laguna Mountains. You'll traverse varied terrain from chaparral to pine forests, with nearly continuous, expansive views over the Anza-Borrego Desert. On clear days, you might even spot the Salton Sea from viewpoints like Storm Canyon Overlook, making this a visually rich and engaging route.

This difficult 18.2-mile (29.4 km) hike involves 1353 feet (412 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 8 hours and 8 minutes. Access is convenient via the Sunrise Scenic Byway, which runs parallel to the trail. Be aware that strong winds can add to the challenge, and snow is possible in winter and early spring at these higher elevations, so check conditions before you go.

What makes this section of the PCT truly notable are the stunning, high-elevation desert views, often described as 'Kodachrome gold and pink' at sunrise. It's considered one of the most accessible and rewarding parts of the Pacific Crest Trail in Southern California, offering a taste of long-distance hiking with the convenience of multiple entry points. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including hawks and rabbits, as you explore this unique landscape.

This easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) loop from the Desert View Picnic Area offers a delightful blend of mountain and desert scenery, making it a fantastic choice for a quick outing. You'll wander through fragrant Jeffrey pine groves and past black oak trees, which burst with yellow hues in late autumn. The path provides expansive, dramatic views of the Anza-Borrego Desert, contrasting sharply with the mountain environment you're hiking through.

To start this roughly 1-hour and 2-minute hike, head to the Desert View Picnic Area, easily accessible from Sunrise Highway. Parking here requires a National Forest Adventure Pass. The area is well-equipped with picnic tables and restrooms, making it a convenient spot to prepare or unwind. This trail is also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion along.

What makes this route particularly special is its connection to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), with portions of the loop overlapping this famous long-distance path. It's an interpretive trail, meaning you'll find signs explaining the local natural and cultural history as you go. The minimal 171 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain ensures that you get maximum scenic payoff for very little effort, perfect for families or those new to hiking.