A San Jacinto redo upgraded to Cactus to Clouds

I bagged San Jacinto less than two weeks ago, but I went again for the epic Cactus to Clouds (C2C) hike with wonderful friends.

We wanted plenty of time and not be rushed, so we started at 8 PM from the Palm Springs Museum TH. The TH temperature was in the low 80s, but I knew it would cool with elevation to a chilly low 50’s. Hiked nonstop until sunrise breakfast just below the saddle. Short break and hydro refill at the Ranger Station, then a slow and steady trek to Mount San Jacinto Peak and eventually returning to the Tram Station to end the hike. Unfortunately no sign at the summit, but my friend made a sign to commemorate our hike.

The nighttime sky was wonderful. The Palm Springs city lights were like a glass painting and as we gained elevation the Milky Way became visible to the naked eye.