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Site Open

Pioneer Mail Picnic Site

Distance

2.3 miles with connecting trail options

Pets Allowed

Yes

Fees

Adventure Pass Required

Hike/Ride Time

Half to Full day

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Best Seasons

Fall, Spring, Winter

Location

On Sunrise Hwy between mile marker 29 and 29.5


The Pioneer Mail Picnic area is a great place for visitors looking for a day of outdoor recreation. Not only does this area access several popular hiking trails, but each picnic table has a view of the Anza Borrego Desert, shaded by old oaks and pines. Visitors can access the Pacific Crest Trail on the north end of the parking lot, or hike north to reach a gorgeous vista on Kwaaymii Point at 5440 ft. Across Sunrise Highway, Pine Mountain Trail can be reached which leads visitors to connecting Noble Canyon and Indian Creek Trail.

No overnight camping is available at this location. However, the Laguna Campground is 3 miles away and open year-round.

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: 32.9244

Longitude: -116.4811

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Groups

Cactus in the foreground and a rugged desert canyon in the background

The Pacific Crest Trail, or the PCT, is arguably the most famous of the nation's designated National Scenic Trails.  Winding its way through spectacular vistas fr

Last updated August 22nd, 2025