Hiking and geology of the San Jacinto Mountains.

The Geologic Maps Foundation has an approved reservation for staying at the UC James Nature Reserve. The price of the trip is $260.00/person paid to Geologic Maps Foundation (instructions for payment will be provided later). We will have three full days to explore the trails of the San Jacinto Mountains, discuss the geology, and natural environment. I've reserved two cabins at the James Reserve, each with two bedrooms, a kitchen, refrigerator, bathroom, and shower. The location is pristine and lovely, in a small pine-forested valley, up a gated and locked private road. So even though the trip is over the Memorial Day weekend we will be away from the crowds during the evenings, nights, and early mornings. I can accommodate eight going including me, and you will have to share a room with one another. I have not decided on an exact hiking itinerary yet, but I am thinking of a mix of moderate and more difficult trails (5-12 miles). The trails I am thinking of doing are well marked and in and out (no loops), so if you are tired and need to turn around we will see you back at the trailhead. The village of Idyllwild is nearby and has lots of restaurants and I plan to have early dinner there at least a couple times. There are also plenty of stores in Idyllwild. For the other meals we can cook at the cabins. It looks like they have a great BBQ. We may also make a one day trip to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. For right now, I just want to find out how many are interested in attending. You will go on a waitlist, and Geo-hikers have priority at least initially. Please do not go on the waitlist unless you plan on attending. I will provide more information soon.