South Lykken Trail

Amazing sunrise. You need to start dark, but it Will pay off

This is 8.9 miles hike with elevation gain 2208. There’s practically no shade so in the summer do this hike at 5 or 6am. In the winter I do it around 10am, really always depends on a weather. I never do the whole hike. I turn around at Josie Johnson Vista Park, where you have tables and can have a picnic. To this point and back to car is 5.9 miles with elevation gain 1200. It usually takes me 2:20 hours to complete it. First mile is uphill on the rocks. It’s easier to walk up than down. This part is hard on my hypermobile ankle joints. But I love this hike so much! Beautiful views and pleasant walk on narrow path. You can see the mountains on the other side, and Palm Springs. If you want to do the whole hike, you can walk back to the car 2 miles on the street. I’ve seen bighorn sheep’s, rattlesnakes, rabbits, and even fox. There’s some magic in these mountains.

Started at the south end. (Parked on road) Ended up walking all the way over to the North end by Mesquite Rd. Total walking time 2:45hrs. Total time including stops at 2 picnic areas and pic taking 4hrs. Saw bighorn sheep up close. The Mesquite end of trail is a bit more challenging. (Grabbed an Uber back to car $12)

The trail was looking good. About 20 volunteers working on the trail when we arrived. Saw my first cactus bloom - beautiful. Also saw eight long horned sheep!

This is a great hike. Some moderately strenuous sections, but totally worth it. I've only hiked it in the spring (several times) and the blooming cacti, bushes, trees, etc. are incredible. Incredible views along the entire trail. On my last two times going up I ran into a group of bighorn sheep at the top (near the picnic tables) and then another group on the way back down--even closer. It's such a cool hike--I don't know why it's not more popular. No parking at the trail head, but you can park on the street a block east of the trail head.