Sunrise Scenic Byway

The byway weaves through woods brimming with pine, spruce, and fir trees, offering travelers many opportunities to enjoy pristine mountain meadows and amazing vistas.

The map below shows the route of the Sunrise Scenic Byway. Addition information is available from any of the Cleveland Forest offices .

1. PINE VALLEY OVERLOOK - This flat area known as the “Borrow Pit” was used during the construction of the Sunrise Highway in 1937. The area is accented by a huge rock geologists call a scrap. Down the west slope nestled among the chaparral is the picturesque community of Pine Valley.

2. MEADOW INFORMATION STATION - A good place to get orientated. The kiosk displays a map of the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area and provides information on camping and area-use guidelines.

3. PACIFIC CREST TRAIL - A 2,627- mile trail stretching from Mexico to Canada. This trail takes backpackers within sight of the highest and lowest spots in the continental United States. Day hikers can access this trail at Burnt Rancheria Campground, Desert View Picnic Area, Penny Pines Monument and Pioneer Mail Picnic Area.

4. VISITORS INFORMATION OFFICE - This office is staffed weekends and holidays by volunteers from the Laguna Mountain Volunteer Association. Information is provided here on local wildlife, Indians and vegetation, as well as area camping and hiking. Restrooms and drinking water are available.

5. DESERT VIEW PICNIC AREA - A popular spot for lunch. Here you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the desert 6,000 feet below. On most days, the Salton Sea is clearly visible to the southeast. Restrooms and potable water are available.

6. EL PRADO CABIN - Located just off the Sunrise National Scenic Byway in Laguna campground , the El Prado cabin is a reminder of our rustic past. Constructed in 1912, this one-room log cabin was the only national forest station in Cleveland National Forest for many years. The Ranger was responsible for all forest activities, including fire lookout, grazing permits and camping.