Rain GaugeSeed Planting DayHawaii Stormy BeachLaguna Beach Sunset

San Gorgonio Wilderness – Image Gallery

The BLM provides oversight for 222 wilderness areas with 8.7 million acres in 10 Western States. Wilderness areas are special places where the earth and its community of life are essentially undisturbed. They retain a primeval character, without permanent improvements and generally appear to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature. Enjoy photos by Bob Wick on BLM Wilderness Areas throughout the state.
The San Bernardino Mountains range from the Dry Lake campsite in the BLM San Gorgonio Wilderness — in Southern California.
Located just north of Yucca Valley and Big Morongo, the San Gorgonio is an easily accessible Wilderness. This Wilderness Area displays the full ecosystem transition from desert to mountain, joshua tree to pinon pine, and attracts photographers, hunters, and cross-country skiers. Photo by Dan Maus.


San Gorgonio Wilderness

The San Gorgonio Wilderness is a rugged and remote mountainous area in Southern California, home to the tallest peak in the region.

Details

San Gorgonio Wilderness

The San Gorgonio Wilderness is located in Southern California, within the San Bernardino National Forest. It encompasses over 94,000 acres of rugged terrain, including the highest peak in Southern California, Mount San Gorgonio. The wilderness area is known for its diverse ecosystems, including alpine forests, meadows, and streams.

Features

- Mount San Gorgonio: Standing at 11,503 feet, Mount San Gorgonio is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers seeking stunning views of the surrounding landscape. - Vivian Creek: A popular trailhead that leads to the summit of Mount San Gorgonio, offering challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery. - Dry Lake: A picturesque alpine lake nestled in the wilderness, providing a tranquil setting for camping and fishing. - Big Falls: A stunning waterfall located within the wilderness area, offering a refreshing stop for hikers exploring the region.

Ecological Significance

The San Gorgonio Wilderness is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including black bears, mule deer, and mountain lions. The area serves as an important habitat for endangered species such as the California spotted owl and the mountain yellow-legged frog. The wilderness area also plays a crucial role in providing clean water and air for surrounding communities, making it an essential part of the region's ecosystem.



San Gorgonio Wilderness

Points of Interest

San Gorgonio Peak

At 11,503 feet, San Gorgonio Peak is the tallest peak in Southern California and a popular hiking destination in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.

Vivian Creek Trail

The Vivian Creek Trail is the most popular route to reach San Gorgonio Peak, offering a challenging but rewarding hike through beautiful alpine forests and meadows. The trail is approximately 17 miles round trip and is known for its steep switchbacks and rocky terrain.

Big Falls

Located near Forest Falls, Big Falls is a picturesque waterfall that cascades down a series of granite cliffs. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, especially during the warmer months. The short hike to Big Falls is well worth the effort for the stunning views.

South Fork Trail

The South Fork Trail is another popular hiking route in the San Gorgonio Wilderness, offering a more gradual ascent to the peak compared to the Vivian Creek Trail. The trail follows the South Fork of the Santa Ana River and passes through lush forests, meadows, and streams, providing a peaceful and scenic hiking experience.

Mill Creek Canyon

Mill Creek Canyon is a beautiful area within the San Gorgonio Wilderness known for its lush vegetation, towering trees, and pristine creeks. Hiking trails in the canyon offer a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and photography.

San Gorgonio Wilderness Visitor Center

The San Gorgonio Wilderness Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring the wilderness area, providing information on hiking trails, camping regulations, and safety tips. The visitor center also offers educational exhibits on the local flora and fauna, making it a valuable resource for visitors looking to learn more about the area.



San Gorgonio Wilderness – Images

The BLM provides oversight for 222 wilderness areas with 8.7 million acres in 10 Western States. Wilderness areas are special places where the earth and its community of life are essentially undisturbed. They retain a primeval character, without permanent improvements and generally appear to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature. Enjoy photos by Bob Wick on BLM Wilderness Areas throughout the state.

Description: The BLM provides oversight for 222 wilderness areas with 8.7 million acres in 10 Western States. Wilderness areas are special places where the earth and its community of life are essentially undisturbed. They retain a primeval character, without permanent improvements and generally appear to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature. Enjoy photos by Bob Wick on BLM Wilderness Areas throughout the state.

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The San Bernardino Mountains range from the Dry Lake campsite in the BLM San Gorgonio Wilderness — in Southern California.

Description: The San Bernardino Mountains range from the Dry Lake campsite in the BLM San Gorgonio Wilderness — in Southern California.

Image by Scott In SD – Public domain – Wikimedia

Located just north of Yucca Valley and Big Morongo, the San Gorgonio is an easily accessible Wilderness. This Wilderness Area displays the full ecosystem transition from desert to mountain, joshua tree to pinon pine, and attracts photographers, hunters, and cross-country skiers. Photo by Dan Maus.

Description: Located just north of Yucca Valley and Big Morongo, the San Gorgonio is an easily accessible Wilderness. This Wilderness Area displays the full ecosystem transition from desert to mountain, joshua tree to pinon pine, and attracts photographers, hunters, and cross-country skiers. Photo by Dan Maus.

Image by blmcalifornia – Public domain – Wikimedia

Search


Quick Links

National Parks (NEW)
National Forests (NEW)
National Monuments (NEW)
National Recreation Areas
State Parks
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Areas
Wilderness Areas (NEW)
By The Numbers (NEW)
- Populations of all Countries (NEW)
Ideas - Stock Tickers
Running USA Debt Total