The Hauser Canyon Trail hike takes you along a section of the PCT south of Lake Morena and past Morena Butte. Most of the trail is well traveled, though in the lower portion of the hike, within the canyon, the trail can get overgrown and difficult to follow. There are a number of interesting sights along the trail including an old dam and rock cave. At around the 6.75 mile mark you’ll reach the Marine Memorial, which was dedicated to 9 marines who died in 1943 fighting a fire in the canyon.
Hauser Canyon Trail trail info.
- Distance: 13.5 miles (round trip)
- Hiking time: 8 hours
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 2781’
- Difficulty: 8/10 (bushwhacking, distance, elevation gain)
- Usage: Hiking, Trail running, Camping, Backpacking, Dogs allowed
- When to go: Spring, Fall, Winter
- Permits Required: Adventure pass
- Agency: Cleveland National Forest
Map & directions for Hauser Canyon Trail
- Directions to trailhead (via Google Maps)
More trails near Hauser Canyon Trail
Additional links & resources
- Hidden war memorial awaits in Hauser Canyon – San Diego Union Tribune
- Remote Hauser Canyon Attracts Dedicated Hikers – San Diego Reader
Photos of Hauser Canyon Trail
Latest posts by Robb Keele (see all)
- John Muir Trail Day 5 – Past Donahue Pass to Red’s Meadow. 19.5 mile lake tour hike. - March 7, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 4 – Tuolomne Meadows over Donahue Pass. 16.4 mile shakedown hike. - March 2, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 3 – Sunrise Lakes to Tuolomne Meadows. 10.1 mile hike for hunger. - December 28, 2016