Pacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the Trekkers

Pacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the TrekkersPacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the TrekkersPacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the Trekkers

Pacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the Trekkers

Pacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the TrekkersPacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the TrekkersPacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B for the Trekkers
  • Home
  • Place to Stay
  • Place to Eat
  • Stores
  • Services Gov't-Business
  • Trail Infomation
  • Trail History 2013-2021
  • Friendly
  • More
    • Home
    • Place to Stay
    • Place to Eat
    • Stores
    • Services Gov't-Business
    • Trail Infomation
    • Trail History 2013-2021
    • Friendly
  • Home
  • Place to Stay
  • Place to Eat
  • Stores
  • Services Gov't-Business
  • Trail Infomation
  • Trail History 2013-2021
  • Friendly

Welcome To Pacific Crest Trail Calif Section B Information about Idyllwild

Welcome To Pacific Crest Trail Calif Section B Information about IdyllwildWelcome To Pacific Crest Trail Calif Section B Information about IdyllwildWelcome To Pacific Crest Trail Calif Section B Information about Idyllwild

Welcome -The State & Forest Service Wilderness Problems

ALL TRAILS ARE OPEN IN SECTION B -- BUT -- Check Section C!!

In the higher elevations and bad weather - so hike in groups!!!!

Postal Office only open 12 to 1 pm Saturday for outgoing only!!!!


No current big problems - check "sanjacjon.com"


This winter has been dry but very windy (this only can take you off the trail section and power outings).


We are in the middle of the 2024-25 

Now in the start of May with Feb. and Mar. both with a total of 9 plus inches of moisture makes this season one of the ten driest year. 

11.47 inches so far  [normal up to this time is 24 inches - normal year is 26 plus]

[based on past on the old July 1 to June 30].

  • the lowest is (9.60" 2001-2002 out of 26.65 avg. since 1926-1930.
  • Winter season with is no normal year but a dry and warm plus windy. 
  • February and the most of California is affected by this lack of storms, all the way to Lake Tahoe. 

Most of the high county is cleared of snow - looking like a late June then an early May.  Even thunderstorms developing and did in the desert big time May 6.



Check the PCT Association Trail Closure and Problems  beyond SECTION BEYOND SECTION B::

  • ALERT SECTION C WAS BAD FOR 2024 and still is for 2025::
  • Whitewater and Mission Creek in Section C - the most impacts to travel are in the upper portion of North Fork Mission Creek (mile 235 -239) 
    • Managed by San Bernardino National Forest in Sand To Snow National Monument [This is close Hwy 38 and Onyx Peak]
    1. Storm damage thanks to Aug. 2023 Tropical Storm Hilary that effect Southern Calif. and more Desert - many roads washed out and even Death Valley
    2. TO GO AROUND THE PROBLEM be only by road:   To go around this area start at Interstate 10 to the Big Bear Area or Onyx off of Hwy 38 RAINBOW LN  at mi 253.1 or Pipes Road leave straight at the first bend or go down the road until across the PCT.  (By Bus check the PCT Ass. under area closure on So. Calif.)
    3. THE CROSS COUNTRY ROUTE: People are now taking a cross country route:  This is crossing or cutting across of a U-shape of the bend of the stream bed!!  
      1. Leave the trail at 236.4 (near a campsite  and elevation just above 6,000 ft.).           
      2. Go North:         
      3. You should be returning back to the trail at 245.1 (at elevation just above 8,000 ft. and with a view of a Peak).  
      4. Distance around 2 miles without the gain of elevation.

Do not do this alone!!!  

(mark your trail so you can retrace your way back- if needed)

YouTube:

4. PCT 2024 NoBo, Mission creek - Big Bear 

mile 226 - 266 ridge walk bypass

This is about 236 mi just before a camping site straight north up a ridge.

www.youtube.com/@callofadventure6733

He has his whole trip to Canada on y-tube

---Best answer for getting Transportation: ---

  • Hiking:::  is coming off the PCT at Interstate 10 
    • - go up Black Mountain Road at Hwy 243 for eight miles PC 190.7 then take to the Interstate 10 at mi 209.5. 
      • THIS is only nine miles from town and go by a Trail Angel to that location
  • OR Hitching::::::
    • the beat place to get a hitch is at Hwy 74 and Hwy 371 (Paradise Valley Cafe) going east on Hwy 74 to Hwy 111 Palm Desert about 20+ miles.


Also problems in the past years;;;

  • NOTE: WHITEWATER PRESERVE  218.5 mi   +1 (760) 325-7222
    • Currently open in the day time  - 8am-5pm
    • the road finished road repairs Dec. 2023 
    • Restrooms and water open during operation hours
    • Overnight camping open give a call.
    • the main trail from PCT the Preserve was gone for 2024 now repaired
    • https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/whitewater    
    • whitewaterpreserve@wildlandsconservancy.org



NOTE: THE PAST 2023::::::::

In Section B area of has higher elevation and of heavy snow pack of year [2023] with major weather storms {past six feet or more} 

NOTE: THE PAST 2024::::::::

Was just below normal in moisture and lacking the snow level.


2022-23 YEAR WAS THE BIGGEST SNOW PACK IN THE HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA:::: 

  • [over 500 inches in Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and as of end of June 2023 over 200 inches and skiing into Aug 6,2023]. some areas did not melt to the ground in the very high area and limited the bike riding to three weeks.


For more information about the 2023 and other high years see "2023 and Past Weather"

Last up dated Mar 20 2024--Spring time since March 19

Learn more on the Weather "2021-2023 and Past Weather"

For Wilderness PCT conditions go to San Jacinto Trail Report

Details Here ---- https://www.sanjacjon.com "independently run by Jon King" for trail information

Welcome - Content of the Site -with Transportation and Mayor

WELCOME TO THE IDYLLWILD AREA - SECTION B All Trails and Roads Open

This website is made and update by the owner known as Grumpy.


Special Notes:

  • Post Office open on Saturday for pick-up only Noon to One pm
  • State Campground only has ten hiker spaces open at noon ($5 per night). 
  • Idyllwild Laundry Service -  updates under Service Section - [open 8am to 8pm].


Welcome page with information with the next Section Contents:

  • Trail & Water Current Conditions & website
  • Need Transportation Short & Long   (Trail Angels)
  • On PCT to - Exit/Entry for Section B
  • About This Site
  • Paradise Valley Cafe
  • Mayor Max 


Need Transportation (Trail Angels) click here

WELCOME TO THE IDYLLWILD AREA - SECTION B - Content Topics

Welcome to Section B.       Hope this site can be helpful to you.  

Mar. 2025, this SITE had some changes because of changed ownership, out of Business & New Business   like every year does:

Idyllwild is always changing, going thru the places listed to get better information on each.  


A website on Idyllwild - called "Idyllwild, California" which has Translate website www.idyllwildcalifornia.com maybe help for you but with translations - has limited information. 


We have lost a few business that I marked TEMPORARY or  PERMANENTLY CLOSED.  


This website is to help you to your needs.  

Use the bars at the top for the section of the list below:

  • Home  - This Section
    • TRAIL & WATER Current Condition & Web sites
    • Need Transportation for short trailheads & long trips [some changes]
    • About This Site Philosophy and Idyllwild Area
    • Start this section by starting at Paradise Valley Cafe
    • Words about - MAYOR MAX


  • Place to Stay
    • they are listed by distance from the center of town to outwards
      • IDYLLWILD INN, SILVER PINES LODGE, IDYLLWILD BUNKHOUSE, FIRESIDE INN, & BLUEBIRD COTTAGE INN, these were the main ones open in 2021 serving the PCT hikers during COVID-19.
    • Others reopened in 2022, new ownership -> two, went out of business -> three, and one large new. since 2022


  • Place to Eat: 
    • They are listed in groups of same type of business (restaurants, cafe ...etc.)
      • Most locations have indoor seating and with outside covered/open
      • Some only have window service Inside or outside for only for take-out.
    • Most locations can be order in person, or call in and/or web for take out
    • days and hours open does change by many factors so {call first}
    • Check with some of the trail angles my deliver the food


  • Stores 
    • groceries stores, equipment, boots, clothes, and gifts
    • Nomad Ventures for Mountain Equipag - gear and etc. 


  • Services - 
    • Government
      • Government Parks - US Forest, State, & County
    • Government: Others
      •  Fire Department, Library & Post Office
    • Business: Shipping
      • Miss Sunshine Container & Shipping
    • Business: Medical & other:
      • Medical Services:  Doctor (1), Dentist (2) 
      • and Pharmacy
      • Medical other Massage, Chiropractic, & Acupuncture
    • Other Business:
      • Hair Care, Laundry & Local Shuttle


  • Trail Info   - go to this section for details Including Desciption of  Section B
    • Exit/Entry Trail, Alternate Route & maps
    • with Four Alternate Routes  - Because of weather and/or trail condition


  • Trail History for 2013 to 2021 
    • Fire (2013 & 2015 major closures), Rock Fall (the big one -May 2019 to June 2021), and Weather - Roads damaged from a major rainfall (the big one day Feb. 14, 2019 eight plus inches)
    • also it effect the roads - closed and/or one-way traffic for repair


  • Friendly
    • Transportion for off the mountain


Check the end of this section for information about MAYOR Max

  • Mayor Max III takes office Dec. 10, 2022




TRAIL & WATER Current Condition & Web sites for Sect B -All roads are open! and Trails are Open!

  • Trail Problems & Closures:  No major at this time::>


There has been trail problems and closure from 2013 [Fire Closures from two] to the beginning of 2021 other than normal winter time weather conditions includes; 

  • fires closures areas, fire dangerous weather, rock slides, down trees, storm washouts of trail & road.   

2022 season problems where heat and lack of water [one person did die in Anza area].  

2023 YEAR HAS THE BIGGEST SNOW PACK IN THE HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA 

  • - many hikers left the mountain for other areas

2024 starting out with limited problems  - moisture a little low than normal - the high wildness has some problems of ice check the website www.sanjacjon.com


see the history of 2013-2021 section.


PCT Water Report

https://pctwater.com

Twitter PCT weather updates can be sent by SMS to your phone if you text “follow @pctwx to 40404” even if you don’t have a twitter account.  also, can get a print out at the Idyllwild Library.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gEyz3bw__aPvNXpqqHcs7KRwmwYrTH2L0DEMW3RbHes/export?format=pdf&portrait=true

Part One this will download to a pdf file


"San Jacinto Trail Report"   

https://www.sanjacjon.com   (Section B Only) Trail reports conditions, and water

"independently run by Jon King"

Jon makes this report does this by his labor and time is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report (completely depends on small private donations to cover operating cost). The Donate page can be found on his report just at the end of the day report. (Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal)

  • He started making a trail report (hard copy) bulletins that Jon provided to local rangers to distribute to hikers.

He received a local award  "Ernie Maxwell Community Spirit Award 2022"  Recipient   

  • The award is given to recognize, effect on the community. The honor is given to an inidividual or group who represents EMax's spirit of community and volunteerism.  Prior awardees took actions that created a spark sufficient to bring others into the fray just as Maxwell did with his activities involving the environment. {go to the story about Jon King for more}
    • Idyllwild "Town Crier" Vol. 77 No. 42 Thurs. Oct, 20, 2022}


A GUIDE TO THIS FIRST SECTION

Need Transportation for short trips to/from trailheads or long trips?:

Need Transportation for short trips to/from trailheads or long trips: around problems  areas [like closure or trail problem like weather], places to lodge, supplies, food, or medical?

Need Transportation click here

About This Site

Philosophy of This Site.

The Paths We Travel - Idyllwild


Find out more by pressing here

Start this section by starting at Paradise Valley Cafe

This is the place to get a great start for Section B.

A place on the Hwy 74 just one mile from the PCT mi. 151.

A place to find rides to/from Idyllwild and other place. 

{Before you head for the high wilderness above 8,000 ft.}

Find out more about Paradise Valley Cafe

Words about - MAYOR MAX [Now Mayor Max III]

As Idyllwild is a non-incorporated town, it has no human mayor. Upon his arrival to Idyllwild, in the past was"Max was accompanied by two deputy mayors: Mikey and Mitzi (Mikey Mighty-Dog Mueller and Mitzi Marie Mueller)." The change a new and younger Max "Max III"  with his sister and started His duties on Dec. 10, 2022 after the passing of Max II.  

Find out more press here - Mayor Max

Transportation for short to/from trailheads or long trips

Local persons that are Trail Angels for transportation of the mountain areas, trailheads and town:

Short and long distance trips.

There is no service that comes up the mountain (except: Discount Cab    Taxi    Valley Cab  Banning - see below) 

Taxi, Bus, Lift, or Uber (the last two will bring people up only or just on vacation for themself).


We have a IDYLLWILD SHUTTLE  for local service and twice a week off the mountain routes - go to Service Section for more information (reservation call in).


These names say that they do transportation in this area. I can not verify and not responsible for their actions and services. Many are for certain amount of money depending on the distance of the trip.  Gas is around $5+ gal.


*Les    IDY Private Driver  +1(858) 866-6490  

  • $ year round  
  • (see below also long distance)  
  • Holds up to six persons
  • see above for more information

*Idyllwild Services   +1(951) 392-8460  

  • $year round  Flat rate
  • (see below also long distance)
  • Rides On & Off Hill    
  • hold up to four   not on Sat.
  • www.IdyllwildServices.com

*Grumpy::  +1(951) 500-5954  

  • Currently on vacation until Season
  • March 12, 2025 to Memorial 
  • Rides free but, Will take tips!! 

*Cierra       +1(951) 322-2981    year round  

*Steven P.  +1(858) 472-5804   $year round

  • email  paschallc2@g.mail
  • holds four hikers Part Time
  • will do longer distance

*Marsha  (Marcia)   +1(951) 357-8509  $

  •  $year round - mainly local 
  • (but Airports at time)
  • (Tues/Wed/Thur)


*Steve's Transportation Service     Has Changed to long distance travel only


Another place with angels:      idyllwildpcttrailangels@facebook

Next section has a listing of roadways to leave this area:

  • Exit/Entry locations to major road travel       *2023 year round & 2024 drivers

These names say that they do transportation in this area. I can not verify and not responsible for their actions and services. all charge fees by mile or location.

*Grumpy: Since 2017 picking up PCTers, but Limited only to Section B

MAJOR CHANGE for Grump:   

Now Grumpy Limited - Seasonal Only.

      Trail Angel Service is:   

+1(951) 500 - 5954   

Text and Voice Only:

  • Seasonal {Mid-March up to the Thursday of  Memorial Weekend.}
  • mid-April will being off for one week of 2025
  • Tips are welcome!!

Main Focus on these side Routes from & to Idyllwild:: 

call for service to or from for reservation:

  • Black Mountain Road at Hwy 243;   (190.7 mi - 7 miles north of Idyllwild) 
    • then hike up on the dirt road to the Junction of PCT at 191 mi
  • Spilter Peak Junction Trailhead at Apple Canyon Road; (168.6 mi)
  • Fobes Ranch Road at Hwy 74; (166.5 mi)
    • then hike up on the dirt road to the Junction of PCT
  • Cedar Springs Trailhead at Morris Ranch Road (162.6 mi) 


Always the PVC and trail head Hwy 74 at 151mi

  • call for service to or from for reservation  can be a line up

Devil Slide Trailhead at Humber Park - (179.4 mi) 

  • call for service to or from for reservation
  • (limited phone connection at the Park- call at a higher up the trail from coming down)


Limited only in Section B: south at 151 mile Junction of Hwy 74  to Black Mountain Road Junction of the Hwy 243 at north and  No dirt roads!!

Local persons that do rides for a price [Fee] Off the Mountain Area:

Steve's Transportation Service      

            +1(702) 595-2502

  • Seating up to six
  • Idyllwild to Banning or I-10 Trailhead PCT
  • Other long distance locations - such as Airports
  • Palm Springs area location
  • Acton & Tehcahapi


Les       +1(858) 866-6490  

  • Holds up to six persons
  • Local trailheads
  • Airport (LAX-SD-PS-ONY)
  • Off the mountain location
  • other longer distance like Tehachapi, Acton, 
  • and other areas near that


Idyllwild Services   +1(951) 392-8460  

  • Rides On & Off Hill  
  • Groceries Delivered to Your Doorstep
  • Daylight travel, up to four people, Sun -- Fri
  • www.IdyllwildServices.com


*Marsha  (Marcia)   +1(951) 357-8509  $

  •  $year round - mainly local 
  • (but Airports at time)
  • (Tues/Wed/Thur)


Idyllwild Transport  +1(951) 265-6755

  • Airports ONT & PSP


Next section has a listing of roadways to leave this area.


These names say that they do transportation in this area. I can not verify and not responsible for their actions and services. all charge fees by mile or location.

Off the Mountain Transportation Service:

This is the only company off the mountain say it does service to this area.


Discount Cab    Taxi    Valley Cab  Banning  +1(951) 228-6858

  • Plan ahead to set a time
  • up to seven
  • Idylwild to Banning Or I-10 Trailhead PCT
    • (around $75 price 2023 price)


Other Ideas to look at to get off the mountain: like Hitching

Other Ideas to look at to get off the mountain: like Hitching

There are Trail Angles for local trips and just a thumb with a pack gets friendly local residents for short & long trips -  (money not required but most will except tips or gas money). {Gas is plus $5 a gal.}

  • Check around with the Lodging place and business may have other numbers of people to help out 


The best way off the mountain for hitching a ride is at Paradise Corner.

  • Going east on highway 74 is less than 20 miles to highway 111 is Palm Desert. Then you can get any type of transportation from there.  
    • [Use a Sign "Hwy 111" there is some signs in the cafe near the inside door on a self]
  • This is the heaviest travel route to get the greatest resource of transportation within a 15 mile radius from that point including Palm Springs Airport:
  • [it is best and fastest pick up - this is the first part of a two step process:
    • (1) to get off the mountain then to HWY 111:
    • (2) go where in the desert valley you need to go 
      • (Hwy 111 is a bus route to Palm Springs)
      • {Hitching in Calif is illegal - in the mountain it is over looked)
  • If you are coming from Idyllwild add a step 3 and 17 more miles but you should be able to get a Trail Angel to get you to Paradise Corner (Cafe).


The worst way is going north on hwy 243 (that is 30 plus miles to Banning from Idyllwild.)

  • Less traffic going that direction and less to offer except Buss service and taxi service
  • Long way to go to Palm Springs Airport 25+ miles more and Ontario Airport 40+ miles using Interstate 10
  • down there Hitching in Calif is illegal   they look for people hitching on the on ramps to the freeway


Talk to people for other possibilities.  Like Grumpy.


gothook?? The new name a ownership change to "FarOut"  check there too.


On PCT to - Exit/Entry for Section B

Exit/Entry locations to major road travel

   

Roads that you can use to pass around this of PCT Section B {of Idyllwild} or protions of the area other than hiking are:


[A] Hwy 74 at 

Paradise Valley

turn on to Hwy 371 then 

West on Hwy 79 to 

Temecula

[Interstate 15]


[B] Hwy 74 at 

Paradise Valley 

East on Hwy 74 to 

Palm Desert & Palm Springs to

[Hwy 111/Interstate 10]


[C] Hwy 74 at 

Mountain Center

West on Hwy 74 to 

Hemet  

[Interstate 215]


[D] Hwy 243 at 

Mountain Center

North  @ Hwy 74 thru Idyllwild to

Banning.  

[Interstate 10]


[E] Hwy 243 at 

Idyllwild 

North on Hwy 243 to 

Banning

[Interstate 10] 


[F] Int-10 at 

Banning

East to Palm Springs or

West to Los Angles



Whitewater Canyon Road is open again after washout 2019 and due to the CVID-19 Closed during crisis!! and wildfires and flooding (hurricane Aug 2023)

As a result, the Whitewater Preserve is open for day use {my last timed checked Feb. 2021}, according to the Wildlands Conservancy.

Then open for PCT hikers with staying over night.


 +1(760) 325-7222

https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/whitewater 


Find out more - Area of Sec. B and Trailheads

About This Site

Philosophy of This Site.

I developed this site to help your trip in this section of the PCT.   After a hundred plus miles from the south is my main focus {south to north} with many needs can develop on your challenge or a journey.  Resupplying, replacing, and resting is the needed to complete the journey and hopefully without many instances.


The town of Idyllwild has services, stores, places to stay and friendly people who are willing to assist you towards your goal. 


Oh, I am Steve.  But I go by "GRUMPY" on and off the trail.  It's not just a mood it's a lifestyle.  I am not an trail angel, but an Angel Assistant and a section B web master.  {45 years lived in Idyllwild}  see Friendly People Section


Below picture, a look Eastward towards the town of Idyllwild at 5,397 ft. with the center part above the lowest part of the PCT in view at mi 179.4 - 8139 ft. the Saddle Junction the highest in view on the right Tahquitz Peak Lookout at 8646 ft.

Not in view is Marion Man. at 10,362 ft. is the largest peak that can be seen from Idyllwild.


The Paths We Travel - Idyllwild

Some 180 or so miles from the boarder is the town of Idyllwild.  I first seen this town before my teen years in the early 1960's.  Since then I kept returning to enjoy the area and the high country unit May of 1978 which it became home.


SECTION B:

California Section B - 100 miles

Start - Hwy 79, mile 109.5   3,030 ft [near Warner Springs]

End - Hwy Interstate  10, mile 209.5  1,335 ft [near Cabazon]

Highest point at 9,048


The travel on the PCT after crossing Hwy. 74 at the 152 mile mark the route changes with elevation changes thru a mountain range of the San Jacinto with a peak  10,834 feet.  The Pacific Crest Trail travels round the peak on the west side up to 9,000+ feet. You start at Hwy 74 crossing mi. 151 at 4,900 feet to the highest part of the trail around mi. 182 at the Junction with Wellmans Cienaga Trail at 9030 ft. and mi. 186

  • [CS0181B - Several campsites - mi 181.3 - 9048 ft]  & 
  • [WR186B - N Fork San Jacinto River Tributary - mi 186.2 - 8947 ft]. from the mi. 174 to mi. 190 is above 8,000 ft. 


Weather becomes a problem in certain years making travel extreme for early in the year up to June.       Normal moisture is 26.3  Since 1929-1930

The extremes is the only way to understand the climate in Southern California:

  • Lowest is in 2001-2002 record of 9.60 inches
    • breaking the old record in 1960-1961 of 10.59 in.
  • The highest is in 1936-1937 record 54.92 in. ( a period of 11 years of at normal or above  [7 of them])
  • the second highest was closest on 1982-1983 at a 54.86 inches
  • Most recent since the 2004-2005 of 40.65:
    • 2016-2017 with 35.74 and 
    • 2018-2019 with 37.10 (February at 17.03 2nd wettest with 9 inches on the 14fth) created many rescues - two of the three roads off the hill gone - months to rebuild
    • 2022-2023 is at about 46+ inches of moisture and 80 and snow fall at May 2



The End of Section B:

Hwy10 - Interstate Hwy 10 - mi 209.5 - 1335 ft 


Trail Angels are around for the season of Mar. to June and some are year round.

Find some of the phone numbers can be found here and some have number some phone numbers like the place to stay at Paradise Valley Cafe (many just show up) and Normad Venture.  

  • There are many locals help out when they can - like driving to or coming from home or go to a store. So Thumbs out!!
  • Locals residents and visitors will help out too, only ask or put out a thumb with your pack.
  • Ask Mayor Max went he is in town - even he will. see the last part of this section.


Only public Transportation:

Except for the “IDYLLWILD SHUTTLE” on Mon. PALM DESERT & PALM SPRINGS & Wed. HEMET 1 (951) 426-9688    http://www.idyllwildshuttle.com


For other transportation push the button below (the information is on this page).

 

Find out more at Long Distance Transportation

Start this section by starting at Paradise Valley Cafe

This is the place to get a great start for Section B

It is only one mile west of the hwy 74 crossing.

  • To get water
  • To get great food
  • A place to stay over night
  • Great people
  • Find out the current trail information
  • Transportion by Trail Angels stop here and can cafe staff has numbers to call for rides
  • Use this web to call in to res. places to stay  [ATT connection and no wi-fi]
  • Other great things can happen here
  • Sometimes you can see GRUMPY-Steve checking the place out for what is needed
    • Grumpy does one day round trip to Idyllwild for hihers- also helps carry orders from Nomand Ventures or Post Office or pick up left objects
  • Just a great place!!!!  


Paradise Valley Cafe

www.theparadisevalleycafe.com     

+1(951-659-3663)   

at hwy.74 151.9 mi mark go west one mile


Order while on the trail, package to go>

  • Come join for a wonderful meal in the mountains. Located at the intersection of the 74 and 371 highways in Mountain Center, CA, we welcome Bikers, Hikers, and Horseback riders. Our dog friendly patio is a wonderful place to spend the afternoon. So whether you are coming from the desert, the mountains, or the beach, we are here to offer you the best food in a great environment.


Open daily back to normal hours:

Sunday 8am to 3pm

Mon-Tue 8am-3pm

Wed-Sat 8am-8pm

  • some nights can be closed earlier


Can get rides to Idyllwild for here by Trail Angels!  

Water during opertion hours only - well water.

1 mile W of PCT of the hwy 74 crossing.

Words about - MAYOR MAX Now Mayor Max III Arriving Dec.

Mayor Max, I (the first) visited with Kirsten Garrett of Menifee, California on July 21, 2012.

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Welcome to Mayor Max's website.

Max (Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller) was voted into office during an election held on June 11, 12, and 13, 2012 in Idyllwild, and was inaugurated to a one-year term on July 1, 2012.

As Idyllwild is a non-incorporated town, it has no human mayor. Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends (ARF), a non-profit 501(c)(3), spons

Welcome to Mayor Max's website.

Max (Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller) was voted into office during an election held on June 11, 12, and 13, 2012 in Idyllwild, and was inaugurated to a one-year term on July 1, 2012.

As Idyllwild is a non-incorporated town, it has no human mayor. Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends (ARF), a non-profit 501(c)(3), sponsored Idyllwild's first-ever mayoral election. Any local resident was permitted to nominate his or her dog or cat. 14 dogs and 2 cats were nominated and ran for office. Constituents cast their votes via $1 donations each, and all $31,000 of the proceeds benefited ARF. 

Max won a full two-thirds of the votes, and became Idyllwild's first mayor.

Max's popularity moved the people of Idyllwild to appeal to ARF for his continuation in office beyond his one-year term. On February 9, 2013, ARF announced the extension of his one-year term to a second and final year, ending on June 30, 2014.

On April 2, 2013, Mayor Max passed away. The successor for the remainder of Max's term, Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller, II, arrived in Idyllwild on July 21, 2013. Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends approved his mayoral transition plan.

Upon his arrival to Idyllwild, Max was accompanied by two deputy mayors: Mikey and Mitzi (Mikey Mighty-Dog Mueller and Mitzi Marie Mueller). The trio is often referred to as "the Mayor and the spares" or simply "the Mayors of Idyllwild."

Mayor Max, Deputy Mayor Mikey, and Deputy Mayor Mitzi are all related to Mayor Max, I; all four dogs share a common ancestor. Mikey and Mitzi are siblings from the same litter, and Max is a cousin of theirs. Mikey and Mitzi were born in Ohio, and Max was born in California.

In March of 2014, as the June 30 end of Max's term approached, ARF solicited the town's interest in holding another election. Once again, the people overwhelmingly pled for Mayor Max's continuation in perpetuity. Mayor Max and his two deputies, Mikey and Mitzi, continue to serve the town of Idyllwild.

Feel free to contact the Office of Mayor Max of Idyllwild at any time.

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Job Description

The Idyllwild Mayor shall do his/her best to be a positive representative for the communities of Idyllwild, Pine Cove, Fern Valley, and Mountain Center.

The Mayor shall:

-  endeavor to promote this mountain community on and off the Hill.

-  support commissioners in their projects.

-  strive to be present at community events suc

Job Description

The Idyllwild Mayor shall do his/her best to be a positive representative for the communities of Idyllwild, Pine Cove, Fern Valley, and Mountain Center.

The Mayor shall:

-  endeavor to promote this mountain community on and off the Hill.

-  support commissioners in their projects.

-  strive to be present at community events such as outdoor concerts, festivals, fairs, and the July 4 parade.

-  do his/her best to accept invitations for official visits, such as ribbon cuttings, "mixers," etc.

-  speak out on behalf of the animals of this mountain, domesticated and non-domesticated.


Has pasted on 2022


Mayor Max III arriving soon - story at

{Idyllwild "Town Crier" Vol. 77 No. 42 Thurs. Oct, 20, 2022}

Mayor Max, III aka: Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller, III. *******Come and see how he has grown

Mayor Max, II, Deputy Mayor Mitzi, and Deputy Mayor Mikey with Idyllwild visitors, November, 2013

Mayor Max, III aka: Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller, III. *******Come and see how he has grown

Office of the Mayor of Idyllwild

P.O. Box 1848

Idyllwild, California  92549

+1(951) 659-0283 Mayor Headquarters Office

+1(949) 525-0100 Phyllis Mueller Mobile

max@mayormax.com

www.mayormax.com


On September 5, 2022, Mayor Max, III was born. He arrived home on November 6, 2022, along with his sister, Meadow. Mayor Max, III's debut to Idyllwild and

Office of the Mayor of Idyllwild

P.O. Box 1848

Idyllwild, California  92549

+1(951) 659-0283 Mayor Headquarters Office

+1(949) 525-0100 Phyllis Mueller Mobile

max@mayormax.com

www.mayormax.com


On September 5, 2022, Mayor Max, III was born. He arrived home on November 6, 2022, along with his sister, Meadow. Mayor Max, III's debut to Idyllwild and commencement of duties was on December 10, 2022.


Mayor Max, III continues to serve the town of Idyllwild, along with Vice Mayor Meadow, Deputy Mayor Mikey, and Deputy Mayor Mitzi.


When you come, please be sure we meet! I am in town daily, but always welcome visitors and locals to call and arrange meet-ups.

Press here for Mayor Max web page

2021-2024 and Past Weather & other Special Years

What about the weather?

The sides of the mountain that faces the sun from noon on melts faster!!


{PCT 2021} Climate year 2020-2021 stared warm and dry until the end of Dec. 28.  

Then three storms at the end of Jan. a lot of snow and low elevations on some of the storms.   Snow pack was very small and melted off early and fast.

  • The year came out to a total 11.6 one of a hand full the lowest moisture.
  • Was the year of many fires for closures and late Summer to early Fall (October) closure because of the dangerous conditions for starting of fires for many places [note was reopen for a few southbound to come back to trail to finish].


{PCT 2022} climate year 2021-2022 

has a better state with July 2.32 with normal 0.63 but November we had zero with normal 2.35 and then the moisture are most stopped. Next three months less than 1/3 of normal moisture and drying up the water sources.


THE 2023 YEAR was

THE BIGGEST SNOW PACK IN THE HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA::::

In Idyllwild, the snow was mainly the months of February and March:

March 1 was about 20 inches of new snow made 34 inches plus on the ground my house {other places in Idyllwild was uptown 45 inches}. The largest amount of snow on the ground in Idyllwild at 5200 feet for this year.



{PCT 2023} Climate year 2022-2023 year 

THE BIGGEST SNOW PACK IN THE HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA::::

with rain through the summer into the Autumn 

September had a hurricane came up off in the water towards Southern Calif. bring that month up to 3.46 inches and with a twice the normal November. 

Then came January  and March both with almost 14 inches of moisture:  

{Jul -- Jun total 46.12 greatest since 1997 - 1998 50.37 inches}

  •  Jul-Jan was a total of 26.9 inches of moisture which is the normal for July to June average.
  • February the weather data had missed on four important days of most of the weather of Feb. only 1.7 reported and now it has been updated to 4.67 inches
  • March 13.3 inches of moisture with total moisture is inches over 44 plus for the year
  • April no moisture!!
  • Jon King reports about 100 inches of snow for this year at the peak
  • The system atmospheric river [pineapple express] that dropped the heavy amounts of rain and snow has broken down or quit developing at the end of March.
  • The Total for the month March was 13.27 inches total moisture and 35 inches snow [really it is 40 plus because Mar. 29-30]  snow melted five inches before it could be measured*.
  • This created a problem of hiking areas above 6,000 feet in elevation for the first half of the season. 
    • Then above 8,000 feet for the second half with many hikers using the Black Mountain Road to the junction of the PCT at 191 mi to leave the area.


{PCT 2024} Climate year 2023-2024 year 

  • 2023 Tropical Storm Hilary Cat 5 Followed the path of Kathleen of 1976 
  • total was about 25inches
  • Nov. & Dec. was dry
  • Jan. was normal
  • Feb. & Mar.  a little over normal 
  • Apr and May half of normal
  • Snow was below normal
  • But main damage in the desert


MAJOR TIMES AND AVERAGE TO OUR AREA


THE AVERAGE OF IDYLLWILD:

  •  WITH  KNOWLEDGE OF MY 46 YEAR OF LIVING HERE
  • The Town Idyllwild at 5200 feet of the center melted by mid April.


  • (I do the old year measure [July 1 to June 30]* our total for Idyllwild 0ver 44+ inches total moisture this year and amount of about 90 inches plus* of snow, Jan. was 13.91 inches of moisture moisture and trace of snow). 


[Total Moisture: is melted down snow water and fallen rainwater.]


  • You have to go back to 1997-1998 to find a large amount at 50.37  
    • [17.15 in month of Feb.]    {July 1 to June 30}*
  • 2004-2005 was 40.65 inches  {July 1 to June 30}*
  • 2010-2011 was 30.34 Inches  {July 1 to June 30}*
  • 2016-2017 was 35.10 inches  {July 1 to June 30}* 
  • 2018-2019 was 37.10 inches  {July 1 to June 30}*
    • Feb.14 {by 8am to 8am the old way}* was over 9 inches - New Way at 5pm it was 7 inches recored
  • *I learned the old way like it was done for over hundred years until recently:  *Normal is 26.43 inches
    • I believe it was the congress changed for they can get summer recess on their time schedule since they could not finished the next year budget!!!!! 
    • New dates now start Oct. 1  
      • [I have data back to 1929-1930 and I will not change for those non-scientist]


More than 12 atmospheric river [us local old people remember that we call it the "Pineapple Express" coming from Hawaii of the Tropical Pacific Ocean, which was named before satellites!!! 

Most of the time the snow level is about 7,000 ft. but this year is different effected by other systems at play.

  • The "Pineapple Express" has broken down or stop in the last week of March!!
  • We can still get as late as the second week of June - but not likely
  • Jon on sanjacjon.com he says at this time of the year has fast burn off {melting}. This, 
    • I say the same thing at levels below 8,000 feet where the temperature has the most of time is the above freezing.
  • You can see at certain areas more than a foot a week.
  • Last part of April was hot temperatures in Idyllwild up to 80 degrees with the whole month low above freezing.



The data I found back to 1929 for Idyllwild here is some records:  I am finishing my 46 year living in Idyllwild.

  • A long eleven year wet period 1934 to 1945
    • The highest 1936-37 54.92 inches in 50 days   the current record  since 1929
    • The Whole Southern Calif was in a mess 
    • most dams gone all major road gone my grandparents talk about Mission Valley in San Diego looked like a lake
    • was followed by another wet year  1937-1938 at 39.37 in 52 days 
    • the period of 1934-1935 to 1944-1945 were normal to largest know for Idyllwild  San Diego records go beyond that.
    • 1933-1934 was a the end of two year drought 18 & 22 inches  to start it
    • three upper 20's   five lower 30's   two upper 30 & lower 40  then 54.92   
  • The last couple of current seasons is like the 1976 thru.1984 another wet period
    • after three dought years and one normal 
    • with a hurricane Kathleen Cat 1 in the 1976-1977 Sep 11, 1976  that month was 8.32i nches
    • it was only on since 1858 made land fall in SanDiego, 
      • 1939 made landfill in northern Baja Calif. 8.32 inches
    • it distorted the new Built Highway 8 from the pass to the desert floor
    • the High Sierra was hit hard with thunder storm the whole summer  
      • our family was doing the whole John Muir Trail from Yosemite but left after being flood out of  Tuolumne Meadows it turn to a lake
  •  2023 Tropical Storm Hilary Cat 5 Followed the path of Kathleen of 1976 
    • and a 5.1 magnitude earthquake near Ojai
    • Palm Springs area hit hard 3 inches there  Aug. 20 and 3.46 for us here in Aug. 
    • Flashfloods, mudslides, thunderstorms, strong winds and power outages
    • Death Valley National Park shutt down
  • The lowest was 1960-1961 was 10.59 inches in 23 days and when the World Winter Olympics and it almost did not except for a storms days before it open - my father when to it.
    • Then came 2001-2002 to break that record of 9.60 inches over 38 days it was one out of six years of dry times except one was normal 1999 to 2004
    • then 2006-2007 another dry year at 10.05 a part of  begining for a four year drought
  • 2011-2013  to 2014 to 2015 four year dry period with
    • July 2013 fire that burned up from 150 mile to about 180 of the PCT 
  • Like nonstop again in 2017-2018 with 11.43 inches 
  • in July 2018 the big Fire 
  • then the next season Feb. 14 2019 record 9 inch in a day and the that month 17.03 inch moisture with snow
  • then the roads where wasted out for the 2019 season!!


Weather dry, wet, snow, wind has effect this area many times plus conditions for fires makes the trip in section hard.

One out look for 2023 trail 151 to 209 mile section?

A special video I got sent to me by a co-PCTer a YouTube 

from Quaking Leaf 

"PCT San Jacinto Section Info and Advice" 4/14- 4/17/2023

https://youtu.be/MBIKQX2DuAI

Copyright © 2018 Pacific Crest Trail Calif. Section B   for the trekkers - All Rights Reserved.

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