Directions: Take El Toro east exit from I-5 Turn right at Cook's
Corner (famous biker hangout) Continue approx 4 miles until you cross an old concrete
bridge. Turn left immediately after the bridge (uh-huh that's the road) Continue on the
dirt road for 5 miles (Do not attempt this in a low rider) The road opens into a fairly
large parking area. (Forest Adventure Pass required) There are two narrow dirt roads
continuing from the parking lot. You will begin your run on the left hand road.
Trail Information: The trail head is located about a mile
from the parking area. The trail is a cleared single track of moderate difficulty
depending on the amount of recent rainfall. In the first two miles there are several
short spurs to the right. Always take the left hand option. When the trail emerges
from the canyon it switchbacks for another five miles until it reaches a narrow dirt road
(The Main Divide).
To continue to the top of Saddle Back Mountain turn left and follow the road to the
micro-wave towers. On a clear day you can see from downtown Los Angeles to San
Diego. Return via the same route... Keep a sharp lookout for the trail head
down. Approx 20 miles RT. Numerous other options are available along the Main Divide
Road but inadvisable if you are not familiar with the area. Don't solo these trails!
Miscellaneous Information: This trail is a part of the SaddleBack
Mountain Trail Marathon and the San Juan Trail fifty Mile race. Availability and quality
of water is unpredictable... Four large bottles are recommended. There are NO
services available once you leave the asphalt road... But a Beer and Burger at
Cook's Corner afterwards is an experience in itself.