San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail landscape

Photo: Photo by Joe Sobrero on Unsplash

San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail

~2 days · 8.2 mi · moderate · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance8.2 mi
Days out2
Elevation gain5,151 ft
Gain / mile628 ft
High point11,250 ft

What the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail is known for

An 18-mile out-and-back ascent of San Gorgonio Mountain (11,503 ft), the highest peak in Southern California, via the Vivian Creek Trail in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. The route climbs steeply through Jeffrey pine and subalpine forest to High Creek Camp at around 9,000 feet, a classic overnight stop before the summit push. A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 20,010 ft to 36,867 ft over 8.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 8.2 mi · 100%
  • Downhill 0.0 mi · 0%
  • Flat 0.0 mi · 0%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail take?

Most backpackers hike the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail in about 2 days (1 nights out) over its 8.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How high does the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail go?

The San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail tops out near 11,250 ft over its 8.2 miles.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

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