Deep Creek and the Pacific Crest Trail
Deep Creek is the largest tributary of the Mojave River, descending from the high elevations of the San Bernardino Mountains to the East Fork of the Mojave River. Although only about 60 miles from Los Angeles, the canyon feels remarkably remote. Along its course the creek drops roughly 3,000 feet through granite gorges, massive boulder fields, waterfalls, quiet pools, and lush riparian woodlands before joining the Mojave River.
The canyon presents one of Southern California's most dramatic elevation transitions. High-elevation conifer forests gradually give way to mixed oak woodland, pinyon-juniper woodland, chaparral, grasslands, and finally the desert riparian habitat characteristic of the Mojave River. Cottonwoods, willows, alders, and black oaks line the stream, creating striking seasonal displays, especially when autumn colors brighten the canyon.
Most access to Deep Creek is by foot. Numerous trails descend into the canyon, but one of the finest routes follows the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail parallels Holcomb Creek for several miles before reaching its confluence with Deep Creek, then continues downstream through one of the wildest sections of the San Bernardino National Forest. Backpackers, hikers, anglers, photographers, birdwatchers, and swimmers have long been drawn to this rugged landscape.
Deep Creek is widely recognized as one of Southern California's premier trout streams and is designated as a California Wild Trout Stream. Clear, cold water supports healthy fisheries, while the famous Deep Creek Hot Springs provide a unique geothermal attraction tucked within the canyon.
The drainage also supports exceptional biological diversity. It contains the greatest variety of wildlife habitats found within the San Bernardino National Forest and serves as an important ecological corridor linking mountain ecosystems with the riparian habitats of the Mojave Desert. Sensitive wildlife found in or near the watershed includes the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, Arroyo Toad, California Spotted Owl, Golden Eagle, and the San Bernardino Flying Squirrel.
Deep Creek has also served as an important travel corridor for thousands of years. The Vanyume and Serrano peoples traveled between villages along the Mojave River and seasonal food-gathering areas in the San Bernardino Mountains. Archaeological sites preserved within the canyon document more than two millennia of Native American occupation and continue to hold cultural significance for Tribal communities today.
Botanically, Deep Creek is equally remarkable. The corridor spans approximately 3,000 to over 6,200 feet in elevation and contains fourteen distinct vegetation communities, reflecting both natural ecological succession and the influence of human activity. Rare plants include the Lemon Lily, Humboldt Lily, and historically the Mojave Tarplant. Nearby Holcomb Creek also supports extensive montane wet meadows and numerous endemic and sensitive plant species.
Today, Deep Creek remains one of the most important natural landscapes in the Mojave River watershed. Its combination of spectacular scenery, outstanding recreation, exceptional wildlife habitat, rich Native American history, and remarkable botanical diversity makes it one of Southern California's premier wilderness destinations and a highlight for hikers traveling the Pacific Crest Trail.
pinyon-juniper woodlands/ riparian vegetation/ willows/ cottonwoods/ wildlife viewing/ thermal hot springs/ Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
Source USFS
Pacific Crest Trail
Hesperia Ditch
Lake Adelaide
Mojave River
Mojave River Fork
Atongai
Burnt Flats
State Highyway 173
Arrowhead Pinnacles
Summit Valley
West Fork
