Third Stream Crossing - Cahuilla Lodge # 127, Order of the Arrow, Boy Scouts of America

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Third Stream Crossing

Total Roundtrip Mileage: 5.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200 Feet
Seasons: Early Summer Through Late Fall

This hike takes you from the gravel and rock strewn canyon bottom up to the forested, cool, streamside campsite known as Third Stream Crossing. If you actually count the crossings, including streamlets, you may or may not come up with the right number but the campsite will be there nonetheless. This hike is not very demanding and the trail is usually well maintained. The hike will, at times, insulate you from the outside world and you will find it hard to believe that you are so near the metropolis below. If you are very quiet, you can even catch a glimpse of a bighorn sheep. If you feel lucky, you can even try your hand at panning for gold in the sands of the stream bottoms.

The Hike:

Contine on Lytle Crrek Road about 2 more miles to the intersection of Middle Fork Road, on your left. This blacktop road will quickly turn to somewhat maintained dirt which you will follow for another 3 miles or so. You can then park in the “parking lot.” You will know you are there because the road ends and one of more trash barrels are in view. The trailhead here has attracted some theft, so you may consider someone providing security for the vehicles. Follow the trail and you will soon come to a sign that reads “Cucamonga Wilderness.” Continue up the trail past the junction to Stone House Trail Camp, about a 1/2 mile up the trail, and in about 2 miles you will reach Third Stream Crossing.
This “pie-shaped” campsite is located right along the stream. The trail continues across the stream and switchbacks up to Comanche Camp, then to Icehouse Saddle. At Third Stream Crossing you will find something that is not on your map. If you travel a few yards downstream you will see a streamlet entering from a canyon across the stream. Following this streamlet upstream a few hundred yards and your efforts will be rewarded with the sound, and view, of one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the San Gabriel Mountains. Take a moment to listen to the falls, or maybe even have a Scout’s Own. It would be hard to find a better location.
Here you would include a very brief description of the camping destination. What different types of outings can you embark on? What time of year is it most ideal to visit? What makes this location special?

Type:
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Council Camping Facility
Hiking and Backpacking
Desert Camping
Local Camping

Directions:
From I-15 exit Sierra AVenue and proceed west, up the wash, on Lytle Creek Road. Soon you will come to the Lytle Creek Ranger Station where you must obtain a Wilderness Permit. This would also be a good time to talk with the Rangers about fire closures, water availability, trail conditions, etc.

Special Notes:
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Maps:
Here you should identify the U.S.G.S. Topographical Map Name (7.5 Minute Preferred) and/or Thomas Guide map number that can be used to locate this destination.

Permits Required:
Wilderness Permit (Obtain at Lytle Creek Ranger Station)

Equipment:
It is extremely important that you identify what equipment will be needed. Some sites are more exposed to the elements, so you will need to identify when extra precautions should be taken for cold, wind, weather, or other elements.