Interpretive Programs

Note: The only entrance into Mount San Jacinto State Park from the Mountain Tram Station is down a steep, paved walkway that descends 100 feet in 1/8th of a mile. The steepness of this walkway is difficult for some and the handrails do not run its full length.

Mount San Jacinto State Park is an exceptional outdoor classroom for your students to learn in. Located at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the park is a perfect example of a sub-alpine environment filled with towering pines, craggy peaks, and woodland animals. Park staff and volunteers conduct outdoor, guided programs to schools and youth groups (weather permitting) with a focus on the life and physical sciences. 

 

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. Please contact Park Interpreter Hazel Whittaker (Hazel.Whittaker@parks.ca.gov) to reserve.

 

Note that programs:

• Must be reserved with park staff at least 4 weeks in advance
• Are conducted at a high elevation of 8,500 feet on the eastern side of the park, and thus, requires participants to ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway which may not be suitable for all children
• Are only available to Grades 2 and older
• Can only accommodate 60 students per day
• Can only be conducted on Fridays; however, to accommodate large classes, a school may split their classes over an adjoining Thursday/Friday
• Will not be scheduled during the last week of school

Stay a little longer and join one of our Park Interpreters on a guided nature walk through Long Valley. Nature walks are offered every Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.

 

Discovery Nature Trail

0.6 mile roundtrip, minimal elevation gain

45-60 minutes

 

Desert View Trail

1.5 miles roundtrip, 50 feet elevation gain

60-90 minutes

Join us this summer for Junior Ranger Days, a monthly event where we showcase the park's wildlife, plants, geology, hiking, and more. Test your knowledge and win a prize at Ranger Trivia or make a craft to add to your art collection. For those seeking a few hours in the park, take a guided walk with a Park Interpreter, complete the Junior Ranger booklet, and be sworn in as an official Junior Ranger (complete with shiny badge). 

 

TBD

During the summer, the Mount San Jacinto Natural History Association hosts several half-day and full-day excursions into the park guided by local experts in flora, fauna, orienteering, and more. Limited spaces are available for each program. Sign up here: MSJNHA Events and Programs