Mount San Jacinto

Have I mentioned it's a bit toasty here right now? Today's high in the hi desert is 89 degrees. It's December! We decided it was time to explore some of the hiking trails around and give Mommy some mountains.

Mount San Jacinto is ranked 6th in topographically prominent peaks in the 48 contiguous states. We drove up through the mountains and took the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the Mountain Station at 8,516 ft.

The Mountain Station is beautiful with amazing views, a museum, small theater, and restaurants. There are many hiking trails that start, or continue, from this point. We opted for a short trail that would take us to see the Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea.

The smell was amazing. Crisp, clean... with a hint of butterscotch. Ponderosa pines were scattered around. James thought we were quite silly walking up and smelling the trees. He wanted to eat them!

The kids have become pros at hiking trails and enjoy running ahead. The top of the mountains is an entirely different ecosystem than just a few thousand feet below. Coniferous trees, plants, wildlife... all different than what we are used to in the desert.

Coachella Valley

The best change was the temperature! The day was a perfect 65 degrees while the sun was out. It slowly got colder as the day waned.

Definitely an amazing day and an adventure we would gladly repeat. We still want to make it to the peak at 10,834 feet and are planning that for a warmer day.