Piedra Blanca to Pine Mountain Lodge Camp

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Features Commonly Backpacked · Historical Significance · River/Creek · Views

This nearly 13-mile round trip backpack boasts stunning rock formations, nice campsites, and an interesting turn-around point at Pine Mountain Lodge Camp, largely within wilderness boundaries for seclusion and dark skies.

An Adventure Pass is required to park at the Piedra Blanca Trailhead. There is a vault toilet, but no water available at the parking area.

From the trailhead, head east on Sespe River Trail, then cross Sespe Creek to reach an intersection. At the signed junction, stay left and head to the next signed junction with Middle Sespe Trail, turn right onto Piedra Blanca - Gene Marshall National Recreation Trail. The intriguing rock formation of Piedra Blanca is in view for most of this part of the hike, and is reached in about 0.5 miles. Take some time to explore the formations, then continue hiking north as the trail begins to follow Piedra Blanca Creek and the canyon.

Piedra Blanca Camp is about 2.3 miles from the start of the trail. Less than 0.5 miles from the camp, there is a small spur trail off to the right which crosses the North Fork of Piedra Blanca Creek; this trail leads to Twin Forks Camp. The main trail continues to follow North Fork Piedra Blanca Creek, but veers away as the trail ascends steeply from 4 to 5.75 miles.

Pine Mountain Lodge Camp is reached at 6.3 miles along the trail, and lies at the junction with Cedar Creek Trail. If you're looking for a long day hike, rest here and then head on back down the trail. Otherwise, Pine Mountain Lodge Camp makes for an interesting campsite to explore. The camp is located amongst cedar and pine trees and sandstone outcrops. There are two campsites to choose from, an upper and lower. There are quite a few people who visit the camp, but it's not likely to be crowded. After a restful night, head back the way you came.

The trail weaves through oak woods and pine forests. Bears are commonly spotted at Pine Mountain Lodge Camp.

Pine Mountain Lodge Camp was once a hunting and fishing lodge that stood on the slopes of Pine Mountain. The lodge was built in 1895 by L.A. Patton and Essington Gibson. In 1898, it began use as a Patrol Station for the Forest Service. In 1958, the Forest Service tried to remove a dead tree that was threatening to fall on the roof; however, as they worked to remove it, the tree fell and the cabin was crushed.