Trip Planning Advice for a newb.

[Widowmaker]

Hello All,

Sorry for asking the same question that has probably been asked a thousand times before on this forum.

Some buddies and I are planning on hiking out of Humber Park on 8/25 for an overnighter. This is going to be a warm up hike for a longer trip we're planning in Wyoming in late September. I've hiked San Jacinto once before but only as a day hike. This time we want to camp out and shake the dust out off our tents and sleeping bags.

I have two questions:

1. where should we camp? I'm thinking LVR, from what I read it seems like it might be a bit less crowded then the other campgrounds.

2. What do I need for permits? I'm mailing off a Wilderness Permit Application tomorrow and I know I need an adventure pass for parking. Is there anything I'm Missing?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated even if it's not pertaining to my questions. I'm open to route suggestions or any other insider tips.

Thank you!

[Hikin_Jim]

I have two questions:

1. where should we camp? I'm thinking LVR, from what I read it seems like it might be a bit less crowded then the other campgrounds.

Remember that there are two general areas up there on the mountain: The state park and the national forest. A separate permit is required for each. Camping in the State Park is restricted to designated camping areas only (Round Valley, Tamarack, Little Round Valley, and Strawberry Junction). In the state controlled area, I guess LRV is my favorite, but honestly I prefer camping in the federally controlled area. In the federally controlled area, they issue permits by zones. You can camp anywhere within your designated zone. To me the zone concept is the preferable way to do things. I've had camps off to myself with no neighbors.

While you need a specific permit for each night you camp, you're allowed to transit another jurisdiction to get to your camp. For example, if you're camping at Laws (Federal area), you're allowed to cross Hidden Divide (state area) from the tram to get there. You don't need a state permit unless you'll be camping in a state controlled area -- and vice versa.

2. What do I need for permits? I'm mailing off a Wilderness Permit Application tomorrow and I know I need an adventure pass for parking. Is there anything I'm Missing?

You only need an Adventure Pass if you're parking at a trailhead controlled by the Forest Service. See above for what overnight permits you'll need.

HJ