Zen Center to Red Tahquitz

[halhiker]

I went out and hiked from the Zen Center in Apple Canyon to the top of Red Tahquitz today. What a great hike! I started a bit later than I wanted to so some sections were a little warm but overall it was spectacular. Great views although it was a bit hazy.

I didn't get over to get any pictures of the drop down to Laws Camp but it probably wouldn't be a problem from the PCT to do that. It's a continuation of coming down Red Tahquitz so it's dirt with pine needles and in the trees probably.

I saw two PCT thru hikers heading North and two guys having lunch near the summit.

Great day to be in the mountains. Trip report with pictures on my blog.

http://hikeeveryday.blogspot.com/2009/05/trail-to-enlightenment.html

[hikehigh]

Great trip Report. Any estimate on mileage and elevation gain?

[halhiker]

Great trip Report. Any estimate on mileage and elevation gain?

One of these days I'm going to have to get a GPS because I don't really know. My best guess would be that mileage is about 14-15 and that elevation gain is a bit over 3000. The Zen Center is about 5600 feet and Red Tahquitz is about 8700 and the trail goes up and down a few times but not much.

It's my favorite section of the PCT, though. It goes right along the side of the ridge and the drop off into the Murray Canyon drainage is spectacular. I ran a few times and it feels like you're flying. Of course, you have to be careful: one wrong step and you might be.

[Farakon]

Great trip report. You know it’s a good trip report when it makes you itch to get outside!