Palomar-Magee Trail begins on the northwest ridge of Aqua Tibia Mountain at the junction with the Dripping Springs Trail and occurs in a nice oak grove - suitable for camping. A visitor pass is required for overnight stays in the backcountry. Campfires are not permitted at any time. There is no water source along this trail.

The trail meanders generally southeastward passing west and south of the summit of Agua Tibia Mountain. The grade is mostly easy, but a lot of down timber and brush makes passage extremely difficult. The rewards are incredible views of the Pacific Ocean to south and west and of Palomar Mountain to the southeast. The trail ends at its junction with the Cutca and Wildhorse trails in Crosley Saddle.

Forest maps available at Palomar Ranger District Office located on Black Canyon Road in Ramona.

Directions: From San Diego, CA, Travel Interstate 15 North to Highway 79 near Temecula. Take Hwy. 79 south 11 miles to Dripping Springs. Turn right and park in the trailhead parking lot. (Vehicles must display a Forest Adventure Pass.) The trail is reached by walking south from the parking lot 0.5 mile through Dripping Springs Campground.

Elevation: 1,600 feet

Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

Distance: 6 miles

Difficulty: Strenuous

Visitor Information