Tahquitz Peak via Devils Slide Trail

Cappie’s Scoop: You may have read or noticed there are two ways to reach Tahquitz Peak. You can take the South Ridge trail or the Devil’s Slide trail. Devil’s Slide can be more crowded but it has more shade which is nice on a warmer day. At the top, a historic fire lookout at 8,846 ft. It’s another lookout that I can’t go inside BUT if you hike over some rocks behind it, you’ll find a really great flat area where you can rest and have a picnic. Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: This trailhead gets very busy so I suggest you arrive early. The historic fire lookout is the forests longest continuously operated station, serving some 77 years, and is the only lookout located inside a Wilderness area. It’s been under renovation for some time but if it’s open, the volunteer on duty may let you take a look inside (but I don’t think dogs are allowed inside).

Directions: Heading towards Idyllwild-Pine Cove, if you take CA-243 S, turn left onto Pine Crest Ave which becomes S Circle Dr. Then turn left onto Fern Valley Rd and follow to the end of the road. If you’re taking CA-243 N, turn right onto Pine Crest Ave which becomes S Circle Dr. Then turn left onto Fern Valley Rd and follow to the end of the road.