A strenuous Pacific Crest Trail section between Mountain Center and the high desert offers serious elevation gain and compelling views that reward your effort. You’re looking at a multi-mile hike that requires two vehicles and solid planning—this isn’t a casual outing.

To reach the starting point, take Highway 74 south from Palm Desert (at the Highway 111 junction) for 23 miles, or from Hemet, drive about half a mile east of the Highway 371 junction. You’ll spot a Pacific Crest Trail sign marking the parking area on the right. Cross Highway 74 to the south, where a gate opens directly onto the trail.

The real logistics kick in here: you’ll need two cars for a shuttle since this is a one-way hike. One vehicle stays at this Highway 74 trailhead while the other heads to Jo Pond trailhead, your exit point. To reach Jo Pond, drive 28 miles south on Highway 74 from Highway 111 in Palm Desert (or nearly 11 miles east of Mountain Center if you’re coming from Hemet). Turn north onto Morris Ranch Road at the CDF Fire Station and continue 3 miles until you see the sign reading “Park Off Pavement.” The Cedar Spring trail junction sits just a few hundred yards up the road from there.

The strenuous rating comes from significant elevation changes as you traverse the high country. Bring plenty of water—the terrain is exposed in stretches, and services are nonexistent along the route. The views expand as you climb, with the landscape shifting from chaparral to pine forest depending on elevation. Weather can shift quickly at these elevations, so check conditions before you go. This hike demands respect and preparation, but if you’re ready for the challenge, you’ll understand why this section of the Pacific Crest Trail attracts serious hikers.