Extreme heat is here in the Coachella Valley! It is not pleasant—nor is it recommended—to be out on the trails unless you get up very early to beat the heat.
An alternative to hitting the trails at 5:30 a.m.: Venture out of the desert for a day hike at Jenks Lake, where average daytime temperatures in August are in the 70s to 80s—with temps usually in the low 60s during the morning hours. I was there recently, and it was 69 degrees at 2:30 p.m. as I was coming off the trail.
Jenks Lake is about 60 miles northwest of the Coachella Valley. Take Interstate 10 West to State Highway 38 toward Big Bear. From Highway 38, turn right onto Jenks Lake Road (East); about 2 miles down the road, you’ll make a left and proceed to the parking lot of this beautiful, lush escape tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest.
At an elevation of 6,800 feet, not far from Angelus Oaks, the 20-acre manmade lake is filled with water diverted from the South Fork of the Santa Ana River. Legend has it that in the 1870s, Capt. Lorin Shaw Jenks, aka “Cap Jenks,” dug the 1.5-mile diversion ditch himself, according to the information board posted at the lake.
Jenks Lake is for day use only—in other words, no camping—from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Camping is an option nearby, however.) The parking lot is small, so it’s a good idea to start early, bring a picnic lunch, and make the most of what the day brings. Dogs on leash are welcome, but according to the information board located onsite, no swimming is allowed—and that goes for both humans and dogs. Small non-motorized boats are allowed, like kayaks and canoes, but no paddle boards. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. (Adventure Passes are accepted.) You can pay the host, or if you don’t have cash, you can scan the QR code at the parking lot kiosk (cell service works!) and pay directly via the Recreation.gov mobile app. A California fishing license is required if you plan to fish.
Picnic tables and barbecue grills are located on the north side of the lake. There’s an accessible 1-mile trail that goes around the lake, starting from the parking lot. It’s a beautiful 20-to-30-minute easy (mostly flat) peaceful stroll in the shade. Learn more on the Forest Service website.
If you’re looking for a longer hike with a bit of a climb, check out the Jenks Lake Trail. It’s an easy 3.1-mile round-trip—it’ll take 1.5 to 2 hours—that starts at Barton Flats Visitor Center/Ranger Station (42045 Highway 38, Angelus Oaks) on the Rio Monte Trail and goes to Jenks Lake.
Beyond the various bird species, you will see chipmunks and squirrels frolicking about, and you may even be lucky enough to experience a bald eagle sighting. Also: Be bear aware!
Per AllTrails, the Jenks Lake Trail has a gentle 485-foot elevation gain, through a picturesque and peaceful mixed conifer forest with towering Jeffrey pines, white firs, oak trees, manzanitas and so much beautiful flora. You will hear lovely sounds from a variety of songbirds while you enjoy a colorful array of amazing wildflowers. Beyond the various bird species, you will see chipmunks and squirrels frolicking about, and you may even be lucky enough to experience a bald eagle sighting. Also: Be bear aware! Black bears are common in the area. They aren’t looking for confrontation and will likely run away, but should you encounter a black bear:
- Don’t come between a mother and her cubs.
- If a black bear does approach you, stand your ground. Make yourself big and loud; it’s a good idea to carry a whistle or bell.
- Don’t run or climb a tree; a bear will outrun you, and they climb trees!
- Face the bear and back away slowly while avoiding direct eye contact.
For a more adventurous, longer hike, the South Fork Trail to Poopout Hill is a moderate 4.5 miles, out-and-back, with a climb of more than 950 feet. A large parking lot (you must have an Adventure Pass) and nice restroom facilities are located just across the street from the trailhead. My buddy and I spontaneously found this trail along our way to Barton Flats, and we decided to hike it instead. It was a great decision—but little did we know that we would make it to Poopout Hill, or that there was even such a thing!
While hiking the South Fork Trail, you will hear the refreshing sounds of the Santa Ana River flowing beneath you. As you continue the climb, the trail eventually crosses a fire road, where you can cross over and continue—but be aware that you will enter an active bear habitat. It is recommended to make a left onto the fire road (thank goodness we ran into someone on the trail who informed us of that) to continue to the summit of Poopout Hill. This area is perfect for meditation or to take a break and have a snack while enjoying the crisp fresh mountain air and picturesque scenery.
Aside from the burn area due to the 2015 Lake Fire—which, while sad, shows so much new flora growth—the views are absolutely stunning of the San Gorgonio Wilderness within the San Bernardino National Forest. Looking to the east, you will see San Gorgonio Mountain (aka Old Greyback) standing tall at 11,503 feet—the tallest peak in Southern California. To the north is Big Bear Mountain and the back side of Snow Summit. Then, far in the distance to the west, on a clear day, you can see into Los Angeles County and admire the remarkable view of Mount Baldy (aka Old Baldy, or Mount San Antonio), the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains and Los Angeles County, at 10,064 feet.
After a stop at Poopout Hill, you can turn around and head back down, or you can begin a trek into the San Gorgonio Wilderness for the climb to the San Gorgonio Mountain—but please don’t continue without thorough research and planning, as it is difficult and lengthy, likely including an overnight stay.
As always, carry lots of water; bring extra clothing to layer, including sun protection; use insect repellent; and wear proper hiking gear. Don’t go alone, or at least always tell someone where you’re going. One more thing: Hiking at higher elevations is not comparable to a walk in the park. Find helpful tips of things to know before you go at www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/hiking.
