Photo by Myrvhick Magsakay
Los Piños Peak is located in Cleveland National Park just west of the Main Divide between Orange and Riverside Counties. With an elevation of 4,455 feet, it’s a lesser-visited summit but has some great views, especially on a clear day. There are different routes to get to the summit and some are more strenuous than others but this one is rated moderate since it begins at just over 3000 feet.
There is a gate at the parking area which is sometimes closed. When it is open, you can drive in further but you’ll need a high clearance vehicle that handles better on dirt roads like a four-wheel drive. The first 1.7 miles is a gravel road which you’ll have to walk on when the gates are closed. Bring snacks and plenty of water and enjoy the view!
DISTANCE: 5.3 miles
APPROXIMATE TIME: 2 hours
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
ELEVATION GAIN: 1350 feet
DETAILS: Dogs are allowed and you can do this trail year-round.
WHAT YOU’LL SEE: Aerial views from Los Pinos Peak, one of the tallest summits in Orange County
GETTING THERE: Take Ortega Highway toward Riverside and turn left on Main Divide Road to get to the trailhead. Park at the junction of Main Divide Truck Trail and Long Canyon Road.
GET THE SHOT: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole scene.
EXPLORER CREDIT: Myrvhick Magsakay
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