Monument Peak

Overview

Rising up like a 6,000′ tall frozen wave threatening to crash over Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the Laguna Escarpment features some of the most spectacular views anywhere in Southern California. The Pacific Crest Trail runs along the edge of this escarpment while offering access for numerous side trails to some of the 6,000′ peaks dotting the highest part of the crest. Monument Peak is the most accessible and prominent of these peaks, and from its summit, one can see clear to Arizona, provided that the weather conditions are optimal. Monument Peak Most people reach Monument Peak via the Big Laguna Trail access trailhead along the east side of Sunrise Highway. This out-and-back hike takes a different route to include an additional 1.5 miles on the most heavily-wooded stretch of the PCT. The large number of California black oaks along the way creates an additional opportunity for fall color viewing during late October into mid-November. Pacific Crest Trail The trail begins from the Desert View Picnic Area, which offers picnic tables, fire rings, and a sliver of view over the southeast corner of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Desert View is also convenient to the village of Mt. Laguna, which has lodging, convenience stores, a post office, a recreational equipment store, and a few restaurants (more on that last one later). This section of the PCT is a popular resupply point for hikers just beginning their PCT journeys. If you take this hike in early- to mid-April, you are likely to share the trail with a colorful assortment of long distance trekkers. Cool pine forest along the PCT First, park your car and be sure to display your Adventure Pass (you can pick them up at the general store or at the outfitters). To find the trailhead, start from the info kiosk, which is situated near the restrooms. Head straight toward the picnic tables that are down slope from this kiosk while keeping your eyes peeled for a faint trail. Once you find this trail, remain on it until it junctions with a well-defined but narrow single

Trail Stats

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