Idyllwild CA
Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail takes its name from Ernie Maxwell, the founder of the Idyllwild Town Crier, and an advocate for the outdoors who wanted a horse trail from Idyllwild to Humber Park. No permit is required to hike Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail, but any vehicle parked in Humber Park will need a National Forest Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 per year). Bikes are not allowed on this leisurely trail, but horses are allowed, and dogs are permitted on leashes.
The San Jacinto Mountains are a steep rugged mountain range full of challenging trails that put hikers to the test… Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail is not one of those trails. This leisurely alternative is 5.2 miles round trip with 675 rolling feet of elevation change. The gradual and enjoyable dirt single track overlooks the mountain community of Idyllwild and is appropriate for hikers of all abilities. The trail passes peaceful streams, quiet forests, and sterling San Jacinto Mountains views of Tahquitz Rock and Strawberry Valley.
Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail runs south and downhill from Humber Park to an alternate trailhead on Tahquitz View Drive in Idyllwild. Those with a second vehicle and less time to hike, can use Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail as a 2.6-mile one-way shuttle hike. However, the trail displays different views in both direction, making it a worthwhile out and back track. Even if the destination is just another road, the journey is rewarding enough to cover twice.
Start from Humber Park, a trailhead in San Bernardino National Forest on the edge of Fern Valley, a community that neighbors Idyllwild. Humber Park has parking for Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail as well as trails to Tahquitz Peak, San Jacinto Peak, and the Devil’s Slide.
Before you take a single step down Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail, you will get a scenic view of Tahquitz Rock, also know as Lily Rock, a sheer granite peak busting above the pines just east of the trailhead.
Start down the dirt single track, which immediately descends to a creek where water cascades down a slick rock slope. It isn’t a particularly big cascade, but it is a lovely way to start the hike.
Distance: 5.2 miles (out and back)
Elevation change: 675 feet
Hiking time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
Open to: Hikers, dogs, horses
Fees & Permits: National Forest Adventure Pass
Location: Idyllwild, CA
Think Day Trip, Fresh Air, Beautiful Views and Visit Ernie Waxman Scenic Trail!
