OverviewAnderson Peak is located within the San Gorgonio Wilderness. At 10,840 feet it is the third highest peak in Southern California. It is the third peak, in a series of peaks, that lie west to east on the San Bernardino crest/ridge, starting with San Bernardino Peak and ending with Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest point in Southern California. Many hikers will bag this peak, along with the seven other peaks on the crest, while hiking the San Bernardino Mountain Traverse. This is normally done as a 2-3 day backpack. It can also be climbed as a moderate to strenous day hike (12.5 miles with 4,000+ elevation gain) via the Forsee Creek Trail. As with all the other peaks on the crest, the views from the summit are awesome. On a clear day, you can see much of Southern California as well as the San Jacinto and San Gabriel mountain ranges.
Getting ThereTo the Forsee Creek Trailhead: From Hwy I-10 in Redlands take any Hwy 38 exit north to Hwy 38 and drive northeast aprox. 25 miles to the Jenks Lake turnoff on the right. Turn right for 0.3 mile to a dirt road signed Forsee Trail. It is a rough half mile to the signed trailhead parking (6,800 feet).
Red TapeFor day use a permit is required for any of the trails in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. These are free and self-issued. If camping overnight anywhere within the San Gorgonio Wilderness a permit is also required. These permits can be obtained from the San Bernardino National Forest Mill Creek Ranger Station in Mentone, 34701Mill Creek Road. You can also request a permit via fax at (909) 794-1125. The Barton Flats Visitor Center on Hwy 38 and the Fawnskin Ranger Station in Big Bear can also issue these permits.
In addition to the wilderness permit a National Forest Adventure Pass is required for each vehicle that is parked at any trailhead. Fees are $5.00 a day or $30.00 for an annual pass. These can be obtained from any of the ranger stations or from many of the local merchants.
When To ClimbYear round. Summer time is most popular but this can be a great hike in the winter as well. Snowshoes or crampons may be needed depending on the snowpack.
CampingCamping is allowed. There are several campgrounds in and around the area. Camping on the mountain or anywhere within the San Gorgonio Wilderness requires a permit that can be obtained from the Mill Creek Ranger Station at 34701 Mill Creek Road in Mentone. You can also request a permit via fax (909) 794-1125.
Mountain ConditionsMill Creek Ranger Station
(909) 382-2881
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