Round Valley Trailhead

It's hard to imagine thick forests and streams up there when everything at the bottom of the mountains is desert, but it's true. Rode the tram (a wonderful experience in it's own right) to the trailhead, then took the north part of Round Vally Loop to Wellman Divide Trail, headed for Mt San Jacinto. The trail is fairly easy to follow, although large sections of it are rocky. The outbound ascent is fairly steady, nothing terrible. Do remember that you start at 8,400.' If you're not acclimated, this one will be tougher than normal. There are also a number of places where last winters huge snow pack, and subsequent melting, caused wash-outs and scouring. I came to a few spots where the trail seemed to disappear because it simply went over rocky sections. Within 15-20 yards of each of those places, the trail became obvious again. I crossed several stream beds, some of which were still flowing the last week in September, 2023. I did not need my poles for this trail, but was glad I wore boots. I encountered about 20 people (all of whom were pleasant) on this trail, making for a pretty quiet, peaceful experience. I will be back to explore more trails.
*****Things to be aware of. It begins getting dark well before normal sunset because you are in a valley. Having a headlamp and/or flashlight is a good idea. A headlamp is best because it leaves your hands free; a good idea on this trail with all the rocky sections. It is much cooler up there than on the valley floor. It was in the 80s on the floor, but 60° at the top of the tram ride. It got even cooler as the day wore on and darkness approached. Finally, you are required to have a free day permit, which you can pick up at the ranger station at the beginning of the trail.

It is a gorgeous place! The landscapes are aweson! It is always not very hot here as anywhere else.
Trais are not hard and children like them!

Accessible from the Tram area.