Category Archives: Under 5 miles

Cleveland National Forest, Dog Friendly, Mt Laguna, Pacific Crest Trail, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Desert View Nature Trail

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The Desert View Nature Trail is a short interpretive trail that begins and ends at the Burnt Rancheria Campground in Mount Laguna. The trail overlaps a small segment of the Pacific Crest Trail, and as it name implies, provides some nice views of the Anza-Borrego Desert. In addition to the views, a printed trail guide is available that provides educational descriptions about numbered exhibits that can be found along the trail.

Since this was a rather short trail, we made a day of hitting several of the shorter interpretive trails in the area. After hiking the Wooded Hill Nature Trail and the Kwaaymii Trail, we headed over to the Burnt Rancheria Campground to finish up with the Desert View Nature Trail. From the Day Use parking lot, we set off east along a paved walkway through a canopy of Black Oaks.2016desertview-dsc_0823-edit

We quickly came upon the campground amphitheater.2016desertview-dsc_0826-edit

We followed the path as it wrapped around to the right. As we approached some bathrooms, we spotted a wooden sign that read “Desert View Trail” pointing us to the left, and we dutifully followed.2016desertview-dsc_0827-edit

We made our way along the trail through the campground, admiring the golden orange leaves of the transitioning Black Oak trees.2016desertview-dsc_0832-edit-2

We crossed a couple of roads and finally came to the outer edge of the campground, where we found a “Y” junction and a “Desert View Trail” sign in the middle of the two paths. Having absolutely no indication of whether we should turn right or left, we decided to head down the path on the right and see what happened. We later came to find that both paths eventually connect, so pick whichever route you like.2016desertview-dsc_0836-edit

We followed the right fork for a short ways before it bent to the left, taking us towards the PCT. We came upon a pair of benches, strategically placed to enjoy the beautiful scenery.2016desertview-dsc_0841-edit

Around .45 miles our trail converged with the PCT, and we started up a small hill.2016desertview-dsc_0844-edit

It was perfect hiking weather, sunny, but not too hot, and a gentle breeze kept us comfortable.2016desertview-dsc_0848-edit

To the right, we had a fantastic view of La Posta Creek Valley.2016desertview-dsc_0853-pano-edit

The surrounding foliage was a beautiful mix of chaparral, oaks, and pine trees.2016desertview-dsc_0864-edit

As we continued away from the sloping canyonside, the density of the trees increased.2016desertview-dsc_0873-edit

At 1.1 miles we came upon a working drinking fountain, or “water drinker” as the accompanying plaque called it. Nearby, an unmarked path on the left appeared to lead back towards the campground. We continued straight.2016desertview-dsc_0875-edit

As we started climbing uphill again, we spotted a small gopher snake hanging out on the trail ahead of us. He posed nicely for some photographs, and we then gently encouraged him off the trail so he’d have the safety of better camouflage in the surrounding grass.2016desertview-dsc_0177-edit

As we continued up the hill, we began to get some of the promised desert views.2016desertview-dsc_0894-pano-edit

We were also able to spot the white orb of the Laguna Observatory in the north.2016desertview-dsc_0900-pano

Around 1.4 miles, we came upon a “Y” junction where the Desert View Trail split off from the PCT. We turned left to start making our way back towards the campground.2016desertview-dsc_0903-edit

We found a lovely log bench under a shady oak tree. This would be a great out of the way spot to relax for a little while.2016desertview-dsc_0908-edit

The trail wound through more oak and pine forest.2016desertview-dsc_0912-edit

Before long we met a paved road in the campground, and the end of the trail.2016desertview-dsc_0202

The trail ended a fair distance from our starting point, with no real indication of how to get back to the campground entrance. We basically just kept going right until we found ourselves back at the day use parking area. Based on the map it looks like it would be quicker to turn left at the end of the trail and from there follow the road the entrance. It’s a beautiful campground though, so whichever way you go it will be an enjoyable walk.

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Directions:
From I-8 east take the Sunrise Highway exit and turn left onto Sunrise Highway (S1). Follow Sunrise Highway for approximately 9.5 miles to the Burnt Rancheria Campground on your right. Turn left at the fee station and follow the road a short ways to the day use parking area on your right. Park in one of the marked “Adventure Pass” parking spots. map

Total Distance: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 222 feet
Dog Friendly?: Leashed dogs allowed
Bike Friendly?: Bikes not allowed
Facilities: Water and restrooms at campground
Fees/Permits: Adventure Pass required

For more information, visit:
Laguna Mountain Recreation Area Map
View route or download GPX from CalTopo

Cleveland National Forest, Dog Friendly, Mt Laguna, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Kwaaymii Trail

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The Kwaaymii Trail is a very short interpretive loop right next to the Mount Laguna Visitor’s Center. While I don’t recommend driving all the way out there just for this one short hike, it’s a really nice little trail to check out next time you’re in the area. After many trips to Mount Laguna where we had seen this trailhead when we stopped to use the restroom, we decided it was finally time to hike it. We made a day of exploring some of the shorter trails in the area like the Wooded Hill Trail, the Desert View Nature Trail (write-up coming soon), and the Kwaaymii Trail. This trail would also be a good choice if you happen to be camping in the area with small kids or non-hikers who want to get out and explore a little, but aren’t prepared for a longer trail. Continue reading Kwaaymii Trail →

Cleveland National Forest, Dog Friendly, Mt Laguna, Peaks, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Wooded Hill Nature Trail

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Wooded Hill Nature Trail is a short, easy, interpretive trail in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area that is perfect for a leisurely hike with the kids. While much of the Laguna Mountain area has suffered from fires, Wooded Hill and the surrounding area is still covered in mature pine and oak trees that legitimately merit the use of the word “forest”. Continue reading Wooded Hill Nature Trail →

Birding, Coastal/Beach Hikes, Dog Friendly, San Diego, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Famosa Slough

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Famosa Slough is a 37 acre Marine Conservation Area which protects fragile wetland habitat near the point where the San Diego River meets the Pacific Ocean. While the surrounding area has been heavily developed, this small portion of wetland provides a peaceful patch of nature. The Slough is a popular spot for birdwatchers year-round, and a frequent stopover point for migrating birds in the winter. Over 190 species of birds have been spotted here. Continue reading Famosa Slough →

Daley Ranch, Dog Friendly, Escondido, North County, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Boulder Loop Trail (Daley Ranch)

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Once threatened by development, Daley Ranch is now a 3058 acre habitat conservation area in northeastern Escondido. With over 20 miles of trails to explore, it is a popular spot for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. The Boulder Loop Trail is a scenic hike in the southwestern portion of the property with some decent hills to conquer. Continue reading Boulder Loop Trail (Daley Ranch) →

Dog Friendly, Peaks, Poway, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Twin Peaks

2016_Twin_Peaks_Poway_DSC_8354-EditTwin Peaks is a small pair of peaks just north of Silverset Park in Poway. The taller, western peak gets the “Twin Peaks” label on topographic maps and appears to be the more popular destination. The smaller peak, a short distance to the east, is an easy side trip worth visiting at least once. Overall its a relatively short hike (just over 2 miles round trip for both summits), but the steep, rugged terrain makes for a worthy climb. Continue reading Twin Peaks →

Coastal/Beach Hikes, San Diego, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Scripps Coastal Reserve – Biodiversity Trail

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The Scripps Coastal Reserve is part of UC San Diego’s Natural Reserve System. The Scripps Reserve consists of almost 1000 acres, including an underwater marine portion, coastline area, and an upland cliff area known as “The Knoll.” The Knoll is home to the Biodiversity Trail – a short but very scenic interpretive loop tucked in amid the palace-like residences of La Jolla.

On a horrifically hot summer day, a short easy stroll on the coast sounded like a great choice, so we headed up to the Reserve. We were able to spot the entrance gate as we drove by, then had to continue a little ways up the street to park and walk back. The entrance is pretty subtle: a wrought iron gate with small sign sandwiched between two large houses.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8237

Once through the gate, it was just a short stroll to the beginning of loop. There was a clipboard with a sign-in sheet at the informational kiosk to help the researchers track visitors, so we dutifully signed in. We decided we’d do the loop counter-clockwise and headed down the right fork.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8238

There were periodic signs with information about the Reserve and the plants and animals that inhabit the area, which is a great way to learn about the local habitat. Being somewhat late in the summer, there weren’t any flowers to enjoy, and the landscape was dominated by chaparral broom and dry sage.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8239

There was plenty of wildlife to enjoy, however. We spotted a rabbit enjoying a small patch of shade.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_9398-Edit

And there were numerous birds flying around and hopping through the bushes.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8250

To the north was Black’s Canyon. Across the canyon we could see some enormous homes perched atop the sculpted cliffs. A paved path providing access to Black’s Beach ran down through the canyon.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8268-Edit

Around .2 mile there was a small overlook along the edge of the cliffs. Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8271

There were numerous signs warning us to stay back from the edge of the unstable cliffs, but even from a safe and conservative location we were able to get some beautiful views of the coastline and see Scripps Pier below.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8275-Edit

The trail continued south along the cliff edge for a little way.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8279

Then it soon turned inland again. We spotted a large Bladderpod plant with some Harlequin Bug nymphs crawling on it.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8286

There were also large patches of Coastal Prickly Pear Cactus, because in San Diego, even the beach has cacti!Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8297

More birds entertained us with their songs.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8301

Before long, we found ourselves approaching the start of the loop again. We thought we were done and started heading towards the gate when we spotted this beautiful little guy in the brush.Scripps_Coastal_Reserve_DSC_8335

For such a short trail, we certainly got our fair share of wildlife, and definitely felt it was worth the trip.

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Directions:
From I-5, take the La Jolla Village Drive exit and head west on La Jolla Village Drive. Continue as La Jolla Village Drive turns into N Torrey Pines Road. Turn left onto La Jolla Shors Drive, then right onto La Jolla Farms Road. The entrance to the Reserve will be on the left after approximately .1 mile. Find parking on the street where you can. map

Total Distance: .5 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: Negligible
Dog Friendly?: Dogs not allowed
Bike Friendly?: Bikes not allowed
Facilities: None
Fees/Permits: None

For more information, visit:
UC San Diego Natural Reserve System – Scripps Coastal ReserveView route or download GPX from CalTopo

Dog Friendly, East County, Sweetwater River, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

San Diego National Wildlife Refuge – Par 4 Trail

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Although we’ve been frequent visitors to the western portion of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge in Rancho San Diego, we’d never managed to make it over to the eastern side. In fact, for many years we had no idea there was another part of the refuge, as the main trailhead to the area lies a the end of a remote suburban cul-de-sac.

The Par 4 trailhead leads to a nice little loop trail that runs along the Sweetwater River near the Cottonwood Golf Course and along the hills just north of Steele Canyon High School. There’s a network of use trails running through the area so you can do some exploring. We ended up doing something of a figure-8 loop that seemed to incorporate most of the highlights of the area. Continue reading San Diego National Wildlife Refuge – Par 4 Trail →

Dog Friendly, North County, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Lopez Canyon

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Lopez Canyon is a small offshoot of western Los Penasquitos Canyon. The seasonal Lopez Creek runs through it, with an accompanying lush riparian habitat. Lopez Canyon is usually less busy than neighboring Penasquitos, so its a great alternative if you’re seeking a bit of quiet solitude, or you can combine the two trails if you’re looking for some extra mileage.

Starting from the western Penasquitos parking area, we passed through the gate at the trailhead, and followed the trail through the thick riparian brush.
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In several hundred feet, we came to a “T” junction. We turned right, following the signs for Lopez Canyon. (Los Penasquitos Canyon lies to the left.)2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6713-Edit

The trail ran through an open grassy area for a short stretch before bending to the right and crossing over the dry creek. Thick tangles of willow, mule fat and other riparian vegetation grew along the creek bed.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6717-Edit

On the far side of the creek, we found ourselves flanked by the dry, grassy slopes of the canyon wall on one side and the lush green of the creek on the other.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6724

Abundant patches of Sacred datura, with its large trumpet-shaped white flowers lined the trail.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6723-Edit

Around .65 miles we found ourselves passing through a field of enormous, dried flower stalks.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6746-Edit

In the midst of this field we came to a “Y” junction in the trail. The right fork was an old dirt road (Lopez Road) leading up to another trailhead near an office park. If you’re looking for a slightly more challenging route, you can get a bit of climbing in by following this trail up to the canyon rim. We were more interested in scenery today, however, so turned left to continue along the creek.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6750

We emerged from the field of dry stalks and continued along the narrow footpath.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6754

As with just about all riparian areas, there was a considerable amount of poison oak along the trail.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6759-Edit-Edit

Just shy of the 1 mile point, we crossed the dry creek bed again.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6762

We were deep in the canyon now, and despite the fact that we could occasionally glimpse houses and buildings on the canyon rim above us, we felt blissfully secluded on the quiet canyon floor.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6764

Tall Sycamore trees provided a leafy canopy overhead, and flowering buckwheat dotted the trailside.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6765

Around 1.15 mile a side trail branched off to the right, leading up towards more office buildings above. We took the left fork to maintain our course along the creek.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6770

At 1.3 miles we crossed the rocky creek bed again, the smooth river rock crunching loudly beneath our feet.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6777

As we continued, the sound of snapping branches made us look up to the hillside on our left. A small herd of deer was grazing in the brush. Most of them ran off upon noticing us, but one doe hung around for a couple of minutes, staring back at us as we stared at her.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_9266-Edit

She finally wandered off to find the rest of her herd, and we continued on our way. More beautiful Sycamores awaited us.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6778

At 1.5 miles, the trail we had been following led to an open, rocky expanse and disappeared. You can follow the rocky creek bed for awhile and pick up the trail again as it leads towards a bridge where Camino Santa Fe Road passes over the canyon. But as the sun was quickly burning off the cooling marine layer and the high humidity was sapping our energy, hiking along the exposed creekbed just to reach a road wasn’t sounding especially appealing to us. So, we decided to make this our turnaround point and headed back the way we had come.2016Lopez CanyonDSC_6784

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Directions:
From 805-N, take exit 27B for Sorrento Valley Road. Turn left onto Vista Sorrento Parkway and continue for approximately 1 mile. Turn right onto Sorrento Valley Blvd. The trailhead will be on your right in just under 1 mile. map

Total Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 110 feet
Dog Friendly?: Leashed dogs allowed
Bike Friendly?: Bikes allowed
Facilities: Port-a-potty at trailhead; no water
Fees/Permits: None

For more information, visit:
View route or download GPX from CalTopo
City of San Diego Parks & Recreation: Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
County of San Diego Parks & Recreation: Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
Friends of Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
Trail Map

Dog Friendly, North County, Peaks, San Diego, Trail Write-Ups, Under 5 miles

Black Mountain via the Miner’s Ridge Loop

2016BlkMtnDSC_9058Black Mountain is a nice little peak in the Rancho Penasquitos area of northern San Diego. There’s a good network of trails that offer several different potential routes to the summit. We previously hiked Black Mountain via the Nighthawk Trail and have had this route on our list for awhile. The warm summer months seemed like a good time to get up early and tackle this relatively short hike before the midday heat set in.

Continue reading Black Mountain via the Miner’s Ridge Loop →