Categories
Uncategorized

Saddleback Mountain (Santiago Peak)

Saddleback Mountain

Trail Views

Elevation Gain

4000 ft

Distance

15 Mile out and back

Pets Allowed

Yes, but caution is recommended

Fees

$5 for Adventure pass

Hike Time

8 hours

Difficulty

Difficult – Strenuous

Best Seasons

Spring, Fall, Winter

Ranger District

Trabuco Ranger District – (951) 736-1811

Saddleback Mountain, also known as Santiago Peak, is an intense 15 mile out and back trail with steep inclines and phenomenal city views, with enough challenges to push yourself to the limit. At almost 6,000 elevation, the peak is the highest point in Orange County, offering incredible views that span from Catalina Island to Orange and Riverside counties.

 

Mossy trails Tranquil streams
Photo Photo

 

 

Although it is one of the more difficult trails in Orange County, this back country road also offer an almost rain-forest like environment with overgrown ferns and moss, large fig trees, and small running streams. Historical to early Orange County, this area still displays many remnants of the late 1800’s when bee keeping and woodcutting was the main occupation of mountain dwellers

 

 

For a list of more trails to explore in your area, please see our Recreation Trail Guide

Directions

GPS Coordinates

Latitude 33° 42′ 28.1779″ N

Longitude 117° 34′ 55.7562″ W