What is the difficulty level of the Garnet Peak Trail?

The Garnet Peak Trail is moderate, with a steep 500-foot climb to the summit after a rolling section along the PCT. It's suitable for beginners but can be challenging in some parts.

What gear is recommended for the Garnet Peak Trail?

Wear fitness or light hiking gear. The summit can be windy, so bring layers for warmth. If hiking in winter, be prepared for cold temperatures or snow, and in summer, bring sun protection and 2L of water.

How long is the Garnet Peak Trail hike?

The Garnet Peak Trail is an out-and-back hike that is approximately 3 miles round-trip.

What is the best time to hike the Garnet Peak Trail?

The best time to hike Garnet Peak is during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. In the summer, temperatures can rise, but there is usually a breeze at the summit. Be prepared for cold temperatures and snow in the winter.

Is the Garnet Peak Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Garnet Peak Trail is beginner-friendly, but it has a steep section toward the end. The views along the trail make the effort worthwhile.

Is there parking at the Garnet Peak Trailhead?

Yes, there is ample parking at the Penny Pines Trailhead. A National Parks Pass or Adventure Pass is required for parking.

What are the views like from the Garnet Peak summit?

From the summit of Garnet Peak, you'll have panoramic views of the Borrego Desert, Vallecito Valley, Cuyamaca Peak, and on clear days, you can see San Jacinto and San Gorgonio peaks.

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Hike Garnet Peak via PCT

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated January 18, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 4.2 miles
Time: 2 Hours
Total Climbing: 650 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowds: Quiet
Dogs: Leashed
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Cleveland National Forest

Garnet Peak offers commanding views from the Laguna Mountains over the Borrego Desert and surrounding mountains. It's one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the area. In this hiking guide, we'll take the PCT to the Garnet Peak Trail, the most scenic route that offers plenty of parking at the trailhead. Don't let the short distance fool you; the views on this hike are worth it.

Where is the Garnet Peak Trail?

We're not going to take the Garnet Peak Trail directly to the summit. The parking for that trail is limited, and the approach lacks views. So instead, we'll park a short way down the road at the Penny Pines Trailhead, follow the PCT along the escarpment to the Garnet Peak Trail, and then climb to the summit. Use this trailhead address:
Penny Pines Trailhead, 12031 Sunrise Hwy, Mt Laguna, CA, 91948

Don't confuse Garnet Peak with Garnet Mountain, which is about 3 miles north of the trailhead and lacks a trail. You can still scramble to the summit there if you'd like, but I won't cover it in the guide here.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 1 — Penny Pines has a wide parking area on both sides of the road. I usually park on the west side.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 3 — The east side generally gets tourists pulling in and out to look at the interpretive display.

You need a National Parks Pass or Adventure Pass to park here.

Gear For the Hike

If you're not familiar with the Laguna Mountains, they can be extreme. In the winter, there can be snow and cold temperatures. In the summer, it can get pretty warm (but usually there's a breeze). So check the weather before you go. You can do this short hike in fitness or light hiking gear. The summit of Garnet Peak can be extremely windy.

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Garnet Peak Trail Maps

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Elevation Profile

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Elevation — The first half of the hike along the PCT is rolling, and then you have a steep 500 foot climb to the summit. Then you follow the same path back to the start.

3D Map

Garnet Peak Trail Hike Directions

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 4 — There are several trailheads at the parking lot. Look for this one at the southeast edge of the parking area.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 2 — We'll be following the PCT until we reach the Garnet Peak Trail. The PCT is well marked.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 5 — When you get to the first junction, shortly after the start, bear to the left.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 6 — There are several cutoffs and unofficial trails in this area. Just stay on the PCT.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 7 — And soon, BOOM, you are treated to views across Storm Canyon.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 8 — The high point across Storm Canyon is Monument Peak.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 9 — And as you continue you'll get views into the Vallecito Valley and Borrego Desert.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 10 — And then the PCT winds uphill to crest a ridge.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 11 — At the top of the ridge you'll see Garnet Peak ahead of you.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 12 — Continue hiking on the PCT toward Garnet Peak.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 13 — Off to the left (west) is Cuyamaca Peak.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 15 — You'll see several side trails to tent sites along this stretch. These are some of the nicest camping spots along the PCT.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 14 — You can explore the views from some of these tent sites and viewpoints.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 17 — When you reach the junction with the Garnet Peak Trail, at about 1.5 miles, make the hard right.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 19 — You'll see a sign for the Garnet Peak Trail.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 18 — Start the steep climb.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 20 — The views from the climb are great.

Garnet Peak first appeared on the USGS topographic map in 1942. The peak is named after the gemstone, commonly found in red, that was mined in the area.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 21 — It gets rocky as you approach the summit.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 23 — And here you are at the summit. Here you can see to San Jacinto and San Gorgonio in the distance.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 25 — There's a small sheltered area at the summit where you can escape the wind.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 24 — To the south you can see Monument Peak and the area where you started the hike. On a clear day you can see from the Salton Sea to coastal San Diego.

Hike Garnet Peak Via Pct Directions 26 — That's the hike. Try to make sure your head doesn't blow off and just head back the way you came.