Middle Fork Lytle Creek Backpack Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Oct 17, 2026; 8:00 AM (Pacific) - Sun, Oct 18, 2026  11:00 AM  (Pacific)
Time is tentative.

Organized By: San Diego Chapter

Location: 13901 Middle Fork Rd, Lytle Creek, CA 92358, USA

Map | Directions

This trip on the northeast side of the San Gabriel mountains will begin with a short backpack to reach a creekside campsite, followed by a day hike which will continue up the canyon. As the trail ascends, the vegetation gradually changes from chaparral at lower elevation to oak and finally mixed conifer forest. There are views of Telegraph peak and Timber mountain to the west and, on a clear day, San Gorgonio to the east. We will cross the creek to go up a shaded side canyon and (if conditions permit) reach a waterfall. Depending on the group’s interests and energy level, we may also return to the Middle Fork trail and continue up for another half mile to reach a ridge with sweeping views. After we return to camp, we’ll have time to explore some swimming holes or just relax before dinner. Since sunset is early, we’ll have some games to play, and we’ll have a discussion about Bighorn Sheep, in which hopefully everyone will get to learn something new about these majestic animals.

While the trail is well-maintained, there are steep drop-offs, and those with serious acrophobia or balance issues may want to skip this trip. There will also be several water crossings and some easy scrambling.

Bears are present in the area, and proper food storage is required. Since this is a short trip, sharing a bear canister may be an option. Campfires are not allowed.

A high clearance vehicle is required to reach the trailhead. An Adventure Pass is required for parking. There will be an opportunity for carpooling.

This will be an 18 and over outing. No pets are allowed.

Red flag warning, fire, extreme high temperature, or heavy rain cancels.

Please contact the leader by 10/14 to sign up.

 

 
 

Level: Moderate (6mi, 2000' elev gain on Sa)

Cost: None

Signup Instructions: Sign up by 10/14

Recommended Items: 2L water carrying capacity, water treatment method of choice, 3 meals and snacks, bear canister (may be possible to share), good hiking footwear, water shoes and/or camp shoes, trekking poles, tent, sleep system appropriate for forecast, 10 essentials

Signup Restrictions: Leader must approve participants based on fitness (good physical condition), prior experience (trails of a similar difficulty), and gear (appropriate for backpacking in fall at 4500' elevation and hiking somewhat rough trails).

Carpool: Carpool from either Scripps Poway or El Norte park n ride, TBD. Carpooling is not part of the outing, and carpooling participation is voluntary. Carpool drivers should be licensed and fully insured. Leader does not assign participants to carpools.

Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels