San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail
~2 days · 8.2 mi · moderate · Point-to-point
Quick facts
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.
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.
How hard is the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek Trail scores 37/100, a relative rating across the 1,243 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
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 from OpenStreetMap, © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0. 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.