The Sand to Snow National Monument’s Mill Creek Visitor Center is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You can visit from the hours it is open, but currently, the monument is temporarily closed. For the most up-to-date information, call 909-382-2882.
An Adventure Pass or Interagency Pass is required at selected sites; no specific daily rate mentioned, but annual passes are available.
From Los Angeles, take I-10 East to CA 62 West, then turn right onto Big Morongo Canyon Rd, and immerse yourself in a dramatic ascent from desert to mountain peaks.
At Sand to Snow National Monument, the Snow Play Area offers a large parking lot where cars, RVs, and motorcycles can park overnight for free, but there are no hookups or fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of Southern California, the Sand to Snow National Monument stands as a testament to the dramatic polarity of nature, where the arid Sonoran Desert floor Give way to the towering San Gorgonio Mountains. This 154,000-acre monument, established by President Obama in 2016, is a four-season recreational wonderland that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
From the Coachella Valley’s desert floor, rising just 1,000 feet above sea level, the landscape ascends to the majestic San Gorgonio Mountain, peaking at 11,503 feet. This granite giant, the highest point in California south of the Sierra Nevada, is sometimes capped with a dusting of snow, contrasting starkly with the desert below. The area is home to over 240 species of birds and a rich tapestry of flora, including Joshua trees and alpine meadows.
Hikers can explore the monument via the Pacific Crest Trail, which winds through 30 miles of this protected land, or tackle the legendary Cactus to Clouds trail, a nearly 10,000-foot ascent from desert to peak. The monument also safeguards significant wildlife corridors and the headwaters of several rivers, including the Santa Ana and Whitewater.
For those interested in cultural heritage, the monument is dotted with over 1,700 Native American petroglyphs and other archeological sites, a testament to the ancient peoples who revered this land. Nearby, the charming towns of Palm Springs and Idyllwild offer artisanal delights and local outfitters ready to equip any adventure.
As seasons change, so does the allure of Sand to Snow. Spring brings wildflowers blooming across the desert floor, while summer offers crystal-clear skies perfect for hiking and stargazing. Autumn paints the mountains with hues of gold and orange, and winter may bring a serene snowfall to the peaks.
- Area (mi²)
- 240
- Annual visitors
- 220 000
- Established year
- 2016
Top 3 Facts about Sand to Snow National Monument
This protected area encompasses over 100,000 acres within the San Gorgonio Wilderness, which was designated by Congress in 1964, and includes the headwaters of the Santa Ana River, Whitewater River, Morongo Creek, and San Gorgonio River. The terrain rises sharply from 1,000 feet on the desert floor to over 11,000 feet in the mountains.
This protected area boasts an extraordinary tapestry of ecosystems, from Mojave and Colorado deserts to alpine conifer forests. Here, over 1,600 plant species thrive, including the southernmost stand of Quaking Aspen trees. Desert bighorn sheep roam the higher elevations, while the endangered fringe-toed lizard inhabits the sand dunes. With over 240 bird species and habitat for the California spotted owl, this biodiversity hotspot is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Black bears find refuge in the dense forests, and the South Fork of the Santa Ana River originates from numerous springs, supporting a rich array of flora and fauna.
Rise from the Sonoran Desert floor to the 11,500-foot peak of San Gorgonio Mountain, where granite ridges stretch over seven miles long and two miles high. Here, 30 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail weave through landscapes that cradle the headwaters of the Santa Ana and Whitewater Rivers, offering a dramatic tapestry of ecological diversity and rugged beauty.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Night Sky & Astronomy
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 3-day trip to explore diverse terrain from desert to snow-capped peaks. Arrive via I-10, park at Forest Falls, and visit the visitor center. Hike Vivian Creek Trail in spring for wildflowers or winter for snowshoeing. Pack meals, rest often, and enjoy scenic vistas.
Pack Appropriately
Pack breathable hiking boots, wide-brimmed hats, and layers for temperature swings. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. For camping, include a well-ventilated tent, water containers, and a portable stove. Check the season for rain or cold gear.
Respect Wildlife
Respect fragile desert ecosystems by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, especially during hot seasons. Stay on trails, avoid disturbing plants, and do not feed animals. Leave no trace and take all trash with you. Enjoy wildflowers responsibly and stay hydrated.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on steep trails and near ledges, and be aware of weather conditions, fire restrictions, and park rules. Stay hydrated, watch for wildlife, and contact park authorities at 909-382-2600 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, from March to May, temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Join the Monument Nature Challenge to spot vibrant flora and fauna. Ideal for hiking, camping, and stargazing, this season offers serene solitude and breathtaking scenery.
Summer brings scorching temperatures (up to 100°F) and intense sun, but also unique experiences. Hike the Pacific Crest Trail, enjoy stargazing, or attend the annual Summer Solstice Celebration in June. Early morning hikes and ample water are essential.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and clear skies. Enjoy the Monument Nature Challenge in October, exploring diverse landscapes from desert to mountains. Ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Experience winter wonder from December to March, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F. Cross-country ski through snowy San Gorgonio Mountains, or snowshoe trails that transform from summer hikes. Crisp air and serene landscapes make it a must-visit for winter enthusiasts.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sand to Snow National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit this area, you can stay in cities like Yucaipa, Big Bear, or Palm Springs, which are all relatively close to the monument. Yucaipa is particularly convenient as it provides easy access to the trailheads via State Highway 38.
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You can bring your dog to certain areas, including external spaces, parking areas, paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas, but your dog must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are not allowed off-leash in these areas.
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You cannot park an RV within the monument itself, as it does not have campsites that accommodate motorhomes, camper vans, or trailers. For RV camping, you need to visit nearby areas like San Bernardino National Forest or Joshua Tree National Park.
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Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, backpacking, climbing, horse packing, bird watching, hunting, fishing, stargazing, and mountain biking. The area includes 30 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail and features the challenging Nine Peaks Challenge, a 27-mile hike with over 8,300 feet in elevation gain. In the winter, cross-country skiing is popular in the San Gorgonio Mountains, and the preserve also offers great snowshoe trails and opportunities for solitude and wildlife viewing.