Crossing Fish Creek in the San Bernardino National Forest
Hollow tree on the Fish Creek trail
Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Fish Creek Meadows
- Location: San Gorgonio Wilderness east of Angelus Oaks. On highway 38 from Redlands, drive east for 33 miles and look for an unsigned road (Nf-1n02) at mile marker 33.48. The road soon becomes dirt, but should be passable for most vehicles. After 1.3 miles, turn right on 1N05, another dirt road, and go 1.6 miles to the parking area. A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required (click here to purchase) as is a free San Gorgonio Wilderness Permit from the Mill Creek Ranger Station.
- Agency: San Bernardino National Forest/Mill Creek Ranger Station
- Distance: 4 miles
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
- Suggested time: 2 hours
- Difficulty rating: PG
- Best season: June – November
- USGS topo maps: San Gorgonio Mountain; Moonridge
- More information: here
- Rating: 8
This trail passes by the famous Aspen Grove of the San Gorgonio Wilderness. While the aspen trees are now (11/2/10) bare, the hike is still very enjoyable. Except for the trickling stream, you can expect just about complete silence, and during the fall, there’s still a lot of good non-Aspen foliage to see.
From the parking area, descend and cross the creek into the wilderness. The trail to the right heads toward the aspens; to the left is your route. You parallel the creek, walking by Jefferey pines and white firs. Notice a huge hollow tree about a mile in.
Shortly after, you cross the creek again and then a big meadow comes into view. You can reach the meadow by scrambling through some trees. Half a mile later, you reach the junction with the Fish Creek Trail after two miles. You can retrace your steps, or go farther given the time and energy–if you head right and keep on walking, you’ll eventually end up on the summit of San Gorgoino.
