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Site Open

Pine Creek Trailhead

Distance

13.8 miles one way

Pets Allowed

Yes

Fees

Adventure Pass Required

Hike/Ride Time

1 to 2 days

Difficulty

Moderate - Strenuous

Best Seasons

Fall, Spring, Winter

Location

Off Old Highway 80 just outside Pine Valley, CA. 


This trailhead has a large parking lot to accommodate equestrian trailers and overnight enthusiasts. This trailhead connects to the Secret Canyon Trail which leads visitors into the Pine Creek Wilderness and great back-country areas. The trail follows Pine Valley Creek which provides for canyon views and at several locations there are pools where visitors often stop to cool off and relax. Secret Canyon Trail is 13.8 miles long one way and ends at Horsethief Trailhead. Many hikers choose backcountry camping as an option for this trail, making it a 2-day venture. Remote camping is available by permit only.

General Information

Day Use:
$5 per vehicle per day
$30 per annual

Adventure Pass Required: To purchase a pass for this location visit a Cleveland National Forest office, find a local Adventure Pass vendor or purchase online at https://www.recreation.gov/.

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 3348 Alpine Blvd. Alpine, CA 91901
Phone: 619-445-6235
Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.DescansoRD@usda.gov

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 32.8363

Longitude: -116.5408

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated August 21st, 2025