Trail Conditions: Strawberry Jct, Deer Springs, LRV

[Perry]

Has anybody been on the west side recently? I'm thinking about doing the big loop instead of skyline because of the warm temperatures.

[Perry]

I just found an answer to my question on the San Gorgonio message board:
http://members.boardhost.com/sgva/msg/1177420583.html

[magikwalt]

Okay, now you got me interested in this loop. Do you suggest clockwise or counter? Any watering points or should I plan on packing it with me?

[jim]

I just found an answer to my question on the San Gorgonio message board:
http://members.boardhost.com/sgva/msg/1177420583.html

Glad my answer helped someone! By big loop do you mean up MM/DS to
the summit then down through Wellmans and back around via PCT?

That is probably my favorite hike. Haven't done it since last summer
though.

Have fun!
Jim

[Perry]

Jim, thanks for that post. I ride the tram up, start in Long Valley and take Willow Creek Trail. There is an ultrarunner who does it from the Idyllwild side, including my loop. I definitely like clockwise better. It helps my morale to save the peak for the end. Also, coming down to the tram is quick, so I get to spend more time on the backside of the mountain which I rarely get to see. To me, it's more fun than Skyline, but there is over 4,000 feet of downhill because it's a loop. On the bright side, there's plenty of water in late spring and early summer. Willow creek is a big one. Then there may be water along the PCT section that faces Tahquitz Peak, but it's safer to load up at Willow with enough to reach Deer Springs. Before Little Round Valley there are several creeks. I load up at LRV with enough to reach the tram, but Round Valley is also an option. The weight of the GU's and Thermotabs is really light compared to the water load I haul up skyline. Today I was not so adventurous and just went to the peak from the tram.

[magikwalt]

I've never done the loop and was looking for an excuse not to do the Tram Hike alone again. The loop sounds like the excuse I need. I'll probably catch that first tram on Saturday! Thanks.

[Perry]

You won't be disappointed! If I remember right, I think I filled three 24oz bottles at Willow Creek (w/ iodine tablets) to reach Deer Springs.