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Wildhorse Trail


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Basic info
Distance: 
10.1 miles
Elevation change: 
2,180 feet
Low elevation: 
1,750 feet
High elevation: 
3,930 feet
Permits/fees: 
Vehicles must display a Forest Adventure Pass.
Season(s): 
Spring
Season(s): 
Summer
Season(s): 
Fall
Season(s): 
Winter
Difficulty: 
Moderate
Usage: 
HikingHorseback riding
Description: 

In Agua Tibia Wilderness and not recommended for summer, carry water. Best time of year to visit is Spring. The beginning of the trail is reached by hiking up the Dripping Springs Trail .25 mile. The Wildhorse Trail then climbs through a pair of switchbacks and then begins a climbing traverse along the south canyon wall of Arroyo Seco Creek. At about 3 miles, the trail traverses away from Arroyo Seco Creek and starts southward. The trail contours through the head of several small drainages and to the west of Agua Point. At about the 6 mile point, the trail descends back into the Arroyo Seco creek drainage near the Crosley Homestead. The trail in this section becomes obscure. Please use care to remain on the trail as it traverses near private land. After crossing an access road for the private land, it passes through a small wooden gate and begins a gradual climb to the southwest.

After a mile or so the trail departs the ridge and traverses up a narrow ravine with lots of shade. The climb through the big cone douglas fir and coulter pines continues until the terminus is reached. The trail ends at Crosley Saddle where it junctions with the Palomar-Magee Trail and Cutca Trail. Campsites are few and far between. The only available water (seasonal) along the trail is near the wood gate. Camping is not encouraged in this area due to proximity of private land. (A visitor pass is required for overnight stays in the backcountry. Campfires are not permitted at any time.).

Directions: 

From the LA Basin take I-15 south to Highway 79 near Temecula. Take Hwy 79 south 11 miles to Dripping Springs. Turn right and park in Trailhead parking lot. (Vehicles must display a Forest Adventure Pass.) From San Diego take I-15 north to Highway 79. Follow previous instructions. The trail is reached by walking south from the parking lot .5 mile through Dripping Springs Campground.