Facility · California ·
Managed by the USDA Forest Service
Pine Creek Trailhead
Distance
13.8 miles one way
Pets Allowed
Yes
Fees
Hike/Ride Time
1 to 2 days
Difficulty
Moderate - Strenuous
Best Seasons
Fall, Spring, Winter
Location
Off Old Highway 80 just outside Pine Valley, CA. See map below
Ranger District
Descanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235
This trailhead has a large parking lot to accommodate equestrian trailers and overnight enthusiasts. This trailhead connects to the Secret Canyon Trail which leads visitors into the Pine Creek Wilderness and great back-country areas. The trail follows Pine Valley Creek which provides for canyon views and at several locations there are pools where visitors often stop to cool off and relax. Secret Canyon Trail is 13.8 miles long one way and ends at Horsethief Trailhead. Many hikers choose backcountry camping as an option for this trail, making it a 2-day venture. Remote camping is available by permit only.
For a list of more trails to explore in your area, please see our Recreation Trail Guide
32.83639, -116.54083 · 32°50'11.0"N 116°32'27.0"W
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Low °F | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Precip in | 3.9 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 1.7 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.4 | 0.8 | 1.9 | 3.5 |
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 4.8 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.
Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.
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