Garnet Peak Hike via the PCT

Garnet Peak from Penny Pines via the Pacific Crest Trail
Laguna Mountain Recreational Area
Saturday, May 22, 2021, 3:45 - 7 p.m.

Note: A National Forest Adventure Pass is needed to park at Penny Pines. The Hiking Ministry has 2 passes we can use. Day Passes are available for $5 at REI and Big-5 Sporting Goods.

Join the Rock Church Hiking Ministry family as we do a 4-mile out-and-back hike to Garnet Peak from Penny Pines in the Laguna Mountain Recreational Area. It's always a great time of fellowship, hiking and enjoying the beauty of God's creation! This hike will take place in the late afternoon.

The rocky, hilly trail offers spectacular desert views while hiking on the iconic Pacific Crest Trail. We will meet at Penny Pines, where there is limited parking and no restrooms. We will hike the Pacific Crest Trail for about 1.5 miles, then turn right and begin the ascent to Garnet Peak. It's a half-mile trek to the peak on a rocky trail. There is an amazing view of the desert from the peak as we break for snacks, re-hydration and worship. There's no shade on the trail, so be prepared for lots of sun and it could be windy. Hope to see you all there!

Please self-evaluate your fitness level, as we will be hiking on a rocky trail to an elevation of 5,899 feet, which is over a mile-high in altitude.

If anyone wants to eat afterwards, we can make arrangements after the hike.

Details on the hike can be found here.

Due to COVID-19, there will be no official carpool.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9

Garnet Peak from Penny Pines via the PCT
Laguna Mountain Recreational Area
12031 Sunrise Hwy.
Mt. Laguna, CA 91948

Saturday, May 22, 2021
3:45 - 7 p.m.

Trailhead arrival at 3:45 p.m.
Hike starts at 4 p.m.

Difficulty: Difficult
Highlight: Desert Views, wildflowers
Distance: 4 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 688 feet
Hiking Time: approximately 3 hours
Dogs on leash: Permitted but not recommended
Weather: Hike will be cancelled if it rains.

What to bring

• Good running or hiking shoes
• Comfortable clothing, dress in layers as it will cool down
• Hat or visor
• Hiking Poles (optional)
• Water (at least 2 liters recommended)
• Snacks and/or a sandwich
• Sunscreen/Sunglasses
• Flashlight or headlamp (just in case)

Trailhead Directions:

I-8 east to exit 47, Sunrise Highway. Make a left at the stop sign and drive north on Sunrise Highway for about 14 miles until you see a paved turnout with a stone wall. The 12031 Sunrise Hwy., Mt. Laguna 91948 will work in your GPS. There is no available water or restrooms. there are porta potties on the way at the Meadows Information Trailhead.