Naked Hike to Cahuilla Mountain

Location: Aguanga, CA

Cahuilla (pronounced “ka-wee-ah”) Mountain stands by itself, well to the west of the Desert Divide and Thomas Mountain, within the 5,575-acre Cahuilla Mountain Wilderness designated by Congress in 2009. It overlooks the Anza Valley and a Cahuilla tribal reservation. Although seldom visited today, it was the setting of Helen Hunt Jackson’s famous 1884 novel, Ramona. The well-built trail leads up the northeast side of the mountain through chamise chaparral. In 2.0 miles, it crosses to the west side and dips slightly, passing through a parklike forest of black oaks and Coulter pines. The trail ends at the southeastern summit, which, at 5,635 feet, is the high point of the mountain. Lunch at the top.

Forest Adventure Pass is required.

Directions: Take I-15 to Highway 79 on the south side of Temecula. Take Hwy 79 south toward Warner Springs. About .25 mile past the junction with Highway 371 take the turnoff used to reach Rancho California RV Resort. Meet at the start of the High Point Truck Trail at 9:30 am.
If you miss us, go to the junction with Highway 371. Turn right towards Anza. Continue on CA-79 S. Take CA-371 E 12.2 miles to Cary Dr. and turn left. Drive 3.6 miles to Juan Diego Flat Road (Forest Rte 7S04). We will stop at the entrance to the Tripp Flats Fire Station to transfer to high clearance vehicles for the last mile.