This was an ODC day hike up to the tram station and then on to the top of Mt. San Jacinto (10,834').  The group met at the Palm Springs Tram to take the 0800 hrs tram, however due to a long line we didn't make it and had to take the 0820 tram.  The trip is know as doing Mt San Jacinto the easy way since you take the tram from the lower station of 2,643' level to the upper tram station at 8,516'.  From, there it is a 5.5 mile hoof to the top. 

The group did the obligatory pictures then headed down the steep sidewalk over to the ranger station to check in.  From there we started our hike upward.  Within about 2 miles you come in contact with the main camping area at Round Valley.  Here there is a water pipe (still need to filter) and a small brook, pit toilets and various camping sites.  It is not uncommon to find some rangers here as well. 

All junctions are well marked.  From here the trail now starts up a series of steeper switchbacks continuing under the canopy until you get to Wellman Divide.  This is a  good resting spot as well as a major junction for other trails.  There is a large rock outcropping or boulders.  Expect it to be windy at this point.  At this time I cannot determine from the map what the name of this trail is called, so I will refer to it as the Mt San Jacinto Main Trail.  From Long Valley the trail is 3.1 miles to Wellman Divide.  The group took a good break here and fueled up for the final 2.7 miles to the peak.

We turned almost due north and headed up the trail.  The steep switchbacks were replaced by a more gradual incline.  If you take the trail west - it is known as the Round Valley Trail.  There is a sign at this junction to guide you.  When you get to Miller Peak, the trail now cuts back to the southwest.  There are a lot of "social trails" here to various overlooks and if you do not have a map or are familiar with the main trail, can lead you into the wrong direction.  Fortunately, most of the overlook trails are quick dead ends.

The trail now cuts back to the south west where and climbs over a ridge with a view of Newton Drury Peak.  Here there is another trail junction with Little Round Valley and more social trails.  Head almost due north and you will go up some short switchbacks until you reach the stone shelter.  Once at the stone shelter the peak is to the west with a rock scramble.  Many side trail leading to the peak - so we just picked one and headed up.  There was still some snow in the area, but a deep path had been beaten through it

After spending lunch at the top, we all hiked back down and enjoyed some cold ones at the bar at the tram station.  The hike up the sidewalk I think was the toughest!

Palm Springs Tram
888-515-TRAM