01
Best taste of a thru-hike
Pacific Crest Trail at Cajon Pass
Cajon Pass Corridor • Iconic Long-Distance Ridgeline Trail • Best Taste Of The Pacific Crest Trail
A close-to-Phelan stretch of the PCT with sweeping views over Cajon Pass and the high desert.
Park near Cajon Pass and follow the Pacific Crest Trail as it contours and climbs above the freeway into quieter hillsides. Once you gain a bit of elevation, the traffic noise fades and you get big views toward Phelan, the Mojave, and the San Gabriels. Go out-and-back for as many miles as you like, but start early and bring sun protection—this section is exposed and can get windy.
02
Best pine-forest escape
Blue Ridge Trail
High Country Above Wrightwood • Shaded Forest Singletrack • Best For Cool Summer Afternoons
A moderate climb through tall pines with rewarding views toward Wrightwood and the high desert beyond.
Just a short drive up Highway 2 from Phelan, the Blue Ridge Trail links the town-side slopes of Wrightwood with the higher ridge near Big Pines. The path switchbacks through fragrant pines and firs, offering welcome shade on hot days and peek-a-boo views toward the desert. It’s a great choice when you want real mountain feel without committing to an all-day summit push.
03
Best quick summit near town
Circle Mountain
Ridge Above Central Phelan • Steep Summit Trail With Open Desert Views • Quick Local Workout
A short but punchy climb to a rocky summit overlooking Phelan, the Mojave, and the front range of the San Gabriels.
Circle Mountain rises directly above the Phelan area, so you gain views almost immediately as you climb. The route is straightforward but steep, with loose sections that make poles helpful on the way down. Aim for a clear day around sunrise or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and big, glowing desert panoramas without spending your whole day on the trail.
04
Best challenge hike
Wright Mountain via Acorn Trail and PCT
East Of Wrightwood • Big-Mountain Loop With Serious Elevation Gain • Challenge Hike For Strong Legs
A strenuous climb from Wrightwood up Acorn Trail to the PCT and on to Wright Mountain’s broad summit.
From a quiet neighborhood above Wrightwood, the Acorn Trail shoots straight up the slope, quickly stacking up elevation before easing onto the Pacific Crest Trail. From there, a more gradual traverse leads to the forested summit of Wright Mountain, with side views into Lytle Creek and across to Mt. Baden-Powell. This is a full workout at altitude, best for experienced hikers who are comfortable with steep grades and changing mountain weather.
05
Best easy desert wander
Mormon Rocks Interpretive Trail
Cajon Pass Sandstone Formations • Short Interpretive Desert Walk • Easy Family-Friendly Outing
A short loop weaving through dramatic sandstone outcrops, with wide-open views over Cajon Pass and the desert.
South of Phelan along Highway 138, the Mormon Rocks area offers a completely different feel from the pine forests above Wrightwood. A brief loop trail winds through sculpted sandstone boulders and low desert scrub, with signs pointing out geology and local wildlife. It’s ideal for stretching your legs on a drive, introducing kids to desert hiking, or catching a colorful sunset without much effort.