Photo: San Dieguito Lagoon

Hello Hikers!

Summer is officially here! While the long days are great, the accompanying heat doesn’t always lend itself to hiking enjoyment. Right now the forecast is calling for a warming trend through Tuesday, so if you’re headed outdoors plan for an early start (or a nice evening hike), and of course bring lots of water.

We just got back from a week of camping and hiking in eastern Sierra Nevada so were unable to make the public meeting related to the proposed rule to limit off-trail use in certain areas of California State Parks.  But as we mentioned last week, it sounds like individual parks will have the ability to choose whether or not to implement the new rule, and in all likelihood nothing will change at Anza-Borrego. You can read more about the meeting over  at Modern Hiker, the San Diego Reader, and the San Diego Union Tribune.

The Border Fire, which has scorched more than 7,600 acres around Potrero is 80 percent contained as of Sunday. A portion of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) remains closed.

The Carlsbad City Council has temporarily shelved plans to implement a trail on the southern shore of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, but will hopefully be revisiting the issue as part of the city’s Master Trail Plan they are currently working on.

Next Sunday head on over to Oakoasis Preserve for an Oakoasis Sunday Stroll. This is a nice and moderately challenging walking opportunity that the whole family can enjoy. Be prepared for a few hundred feet of elevation gain and loss on a dirt trail that is steep and slippery in some areas. Please dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes and bring water for this 3-mile loop that features fantastic overviews of San Vicente Reservoir. Visit the San Diego County Parks and Recreation Program Guide for more details.

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Have a good week!
Photo: Big Laguna/PCT Loop

Photo: San Elijo Lagoon

Hello Hikers!

Holy heat index Batman! This is not good hiking weather my friends. According to the forecast, it looks like today should be the worst of it though, so hopefully we’ll be back to perfect San Diego weather before too long. In the meantime, I suggest lots of liquids and lying very still.

There’s good news on the recent proposal to ban off-trail hiking in certain areas of State Parks. The UT has an article explaining that the decision to implement this rule would be made by the individual parks, and that Anza-Borrego would not implement such a rule. There is a public meeting this Wedensday, June 22, from 6 p.m.- 8.pm. at the San Diego County Operations Center, 5520 Overland Ave., San Diego where you can voice your opinion on the proposed rules.

The County of San Diego Parks and Recreation has announced the grand opening of a new trail at the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Preserve. “Once off-limits and prone to vandalism, Annie’s Canyon Trail has been cleaned and restored to its natural state. This moderately strenuous quarter-mile loop trail connects to both the Solana Hills Trail and the N. Rios Avenue Trail in Solana Beach.” There will be a grand opening and inaugural trek this Tuesday from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., check out their Facebook Event for more information, or contact Jessica Geiszler at 858-955-1331 or jessica.geiszler@sdcounty.ca.gov.

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Photo: PCT leading to Kwaaymii Point

Photo: Tijuana River Valley Regional Park

Hello Hikers!

Looks like June Gloom is upon us, which makes for nice, cool hiking weather. If the grey gets too depressing for you, I recommend heading up towards Cuyamaca or Mt. Laguna where you can hopefully get above the marine layer.

The location for the upcoming public hearing regarding proposed off trail use restrictions in areas of CA State Parks has been announced. The hearing will be held at the San Diego County Operations Center, Hearing Room, 5520 Overland Avenue, San Diego, CA 93123 on June 22, 2016 starting at 6 pm and ending when either testimony has completed or no later than 8 pm.

The County of San Diego Parks and Recreation has announced a workshop on Thursday, June 30 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at the Ramona Library to share a draft public access plan for the Boulder Oaks Preserve in Ramona. The Preserve is located just north of the San Vicente Reservoir and has been closed to the public since its acquisition in 2003.

Next Saturday, you can join the San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers as they hike Greenbelt (Shepard) Canyon. This is an easy 2 mile hike with elevation change up to 200 feet. Take a stroll through the canyon toward a small reservoir that attracts birds and other animals. This is part of a greenbelt area that sustains native vegetation in the area formerly known as Camp Elliott. Visit the Canyoneers’ web page for more information, or check out our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Photo: Ridgeline Trail at Rancho La Costa Preserve

Photo: Ghost Mountain Trail in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Hello Hikers!

I hope everyone was able to stay safe over the hot weekend. I saw several reports of heat-related rescues at Three Sisters Waterfall. Remember to always check the weather forecast for the area you’ll be hiking, and don’t be afraid to change your plans if it looks like its going to be too hot! It looks like today should be a bit cooler, but will things will warm up again Tuesday and Wednesday before finally cooling off again in time for the weekend.

Today is the last day you can submit comments regarding the CA State Parks proposal to prohibit off-trail hiking in certain areas of State Parks. Check out our recent post on the subject for more details if you haven’t heard about this already, and email your comments to trails@parks.ca.gov by 5 pm today. There will be a public hearing on June 22, 2016 from 6-8pm, location to be determined.

In more State Park news, the California State Senate has voted to ban tobacco and electronic cigarettes at state parks and beaches. The bill goes to the assembly next, and if it passes violators of the ban could be fined up to $250.

The US Forest Service has invited public comment on its proposal to create a formal trail and trailhead for the Three Sisters Fall and Eagle Peak trails. You can email comments to comments-cleveland@fs.fed.us with the subject “Three Sisters Falls Recreation Management.”

A new .4 mile “Bayside Birding & Walking Trail” has been opened at the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The trail runs parallel with the Bayshore Bikeway from 10th Street to 7th Street in Imperial Beach, so you can enjoy the scenery without having to worry about bicycle traffic.

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Photo: Mount Gower Open Space Preserve

Hello Hikers, and Happy Memorial Day!

As happy as I am to have an extra day off of work to go hiking, I think it’s important to take a moment to remember what today is really about: today we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and died while serving in the armed forces. Freedom is not free.

In honor of Memorial Day, Palomar Mountain State Park will be offering free entry for Veterans and Active Duty Personnel today. Those eligible must show a valid military I.D. or proof of honorable discharge (e.g.: signed copy of DD214 From), in order to receive free admission.

Next Saturday, June 4, is the American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day. National Trails Day is a celebration of America’s magnificent Trail System. Individuals, clubs and organizations from around the country host National Trails Day events to share their love of trails with friends, family, and their communities. Check out all of the scheduled events here.

Aspect Foundation is still looking for a loving family looking to have a cultural experience by hosting an exchange student this fall. They are currently trying to place a 16 year old girl from Norway who is passionate about hiking and hoping to come to California. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Andria Guzman at andriaguzman@yahoo.com.

The San Diego Mountain Biking Association is seeking trail users of all kinds (hikers, bikers, and runners) to help staff an aid station Friday June 3 at the upcoming San Diego 100 Mile Endurance Run at Mt. Laguna. This is a fantastic opportunity for diverse trail users to come together and show our love for local trails. Sign up here if you’re interested.

And obviously that means that next weekend is the San Diego 100 Mile Endurance Run. The course runs through the Mount Laguna Recreation Area,  and along the PCT, Noble Canyon, and Lake Cuyamaca trails, so if you’re headed out that way for a hike, expect some crowds and to encounter runners on the trail. It’s interesting to note that participants are required to perform 6 hours of trail and volunteer work to enter, so be sure to cheer them on and thank them for their work if you happen to run into one of them!

Next Saturday you can enjoy a History Walk and Talk with Ranger Roland through the Santa Ysabel East Preserve, including some areas not normally seen by the public. Roland will discuss the history of the valley and the Julian area. This hike will be 7 miles in length and will include some hills. Meet at the kiosk in the Farmer Staging area. Wear appropriate hiking attire. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the trail. Inclement weather will cancel this event. Check out the San Diego County Parks and Recreation Guide for more information, or visit our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Photo: Santa Ysabel East Preserve

Photo: Horsethief Canyon

Hello Hikers!

I hope everyone got out over the weekend to enjoy the fantastic weather. It looks like we should have more of the same over the next week so get your hike on!

Next Monday is Memorial Day! Head on over to El Cajon Mountain for the Warrior Hike: Spring Edition. Celebrate Memorial Day with a good, hard hike. Local military families and civilians alike are invited to hike ‘El Cap’ with a ranger. Bring a gallon of water, snacks and lunch. Wear sturdy shoes or boots, a hat and sunscreen. Be prepared to sweat and see the best view of San Diego in San Diego! Programs and times are subject to change depending on the weather and ranger availability. Check out the County of San Diego Parks and Recreation Activity Guide for more details, or visit our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

Downtown hikers have some more urban trail possibilities to look forward to, as plans are moving forward for an 11-block linear park along 14th Street in the East Village. Funding for a demonstration block between G and Market Streets has already been procured, and construction on that segment should begin in 9 – 12 months, with completion planned by the end of 2017.

The Cardiff Rail Trail project in Encinitas has been the source of much contention among local residents. The main disagreement is over which side of the tracks the trail will go on, as the decision will affect the implementation of pedestrian crossings which could require trains to sound their horns near crossings in residential areas, and impact current access to the beach. The City of Encinitas has announced they will be hiring a consulting firm to develop a comprehensive long term plan for the entire rail corridor in order to hopefully avoid similar battles in the future.

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Photo: Eagle Rock

Photo: Black Mountain

Hello Hikers!

Well it looks like May Gray has settled in. The good news is that keeps the temperatures pretty reasonable. If the gray skies get a little too depressing for you, try heading up to the mountains later in the week – there may be some precipitation Monday and Tuesday but after that the forecast is calling for sunny skies.

Next Saturday is the once a year Backpacker’s Swapmeet & Sale at Adventure 16 in San Diego. There will be great deals on used outdoor gear and clothing, and admission is free whether you’re buying or selling. Check out the A16 blog for more details.

Saturday is also Lagoon Day at the San Dieguito Lagoon. Starting at 9:00 am there will be free family friendly events and refreshments. Join Buena Vista Audubon Member John Haddock for a Bird Walk, or engage in hands-on fun activities for the whole family where you can learn about the fish, birds and mammals of the Lagoon, and make seed balls and create art from specimens collected at the Lagoon. Plus, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the extension of the River Path Del Mar. Check out the flier for more details.

Explore Mission Trails Day is also on Saturday. This popular event features free guided nature walks, talks and programs throughout the park, including live animals and special programs for children. Visit the MTRP web site for more information, including the full schedule of events.

Next Sunday you can join the San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers for a special hike along the Boulder Mountain Road Private Nature Trail. This is an easy 4 mile hike with elevation change up to 200 feet. The owner of this private property has given the Canyoneers special permission to lead a hike on this date only. Please join us at this Poway location with an exceptional variety of native plants. Check out the Canyoneers’ web site for more information, or visit our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Have a good week!

Photo: Cowles Mountain via Big Rock Park

Photo: Mount Gower Open Space Preserve

Hello Hikers!

I hope you all had a nice Mother’s Day and got outside for a hike. It looks like we should be a bit drier this week.

The County of San Diego has announced the completion of improved trails and a new overlook at the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park. We’ve done a few hikes there (see our write-ups here and here) and can’t wait to go back and see what has changed.

Don’t forget next weekend is the beginning of San Diego River Days! There are numerous activities all over the county, including hikes, cleanup and restoration events, workshops, bike rides, and more. Check out their Event List for a full schedule of events.

Next Saturday you can enjoy a Ranger-Led Walk at the San Dieguito Lagoon. This easy, 1.7 mile monthly walk is led by a Park Ranger along the San Dieguito Lagoon. Topics will include the lagoon restoration project, plant/wildlife identification and updates on current Ranger projects. Come discover the beauty of the Lagoon! Visit the San Dieguito River Park calendar for more information, or visit our Events Page for even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Have a good week!

Photo: Oak Canyon Trail

Photo from Barnett Ranch Preserve

Hello Hikers!

Wow this rain thing is becoming a downright regular occurrence! I hope the weekend showers didn’t slow you down too much. It looks like once again there could be more coming later in the week, so keep the rain gear handy!

Have you ever considered hosting an exchange student? Aspect Foundation is looking for a loving family looking to have a cultural experience by hosting an exchange student this fall. They are currently trying to place a 16 year old girl from Norway who is passionate about hiking and hoping to come to California. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Andria Guzman at andriaguzman@yahoo.com.

If you’ve ever dreamt of hiking the John Muir Trail, you might be interested in Adventure 16’s upcoming talk “Thru-hiking the John Muir Trail.” The event is free and will be held this Tuesday, May 6 at the Solana Beach store, and Wednesday, May 4 at the San Diego Store. Check out their blog post for more details.

Next Sunday, join the San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park as they hike the Pine Ridge Trail. This is an intermediate 6 mile hike with elevation change up to 1000 feet. Delightful views of the Cuyamaca Mountains and the Sweetwater River watershed are coupled with an abundance of seasonal wildflowers. Walk among mature live oaks, Jeffrey and Coulter pines and, if water is flowing in the Sweetwater River, there is added interest, especially at Green Valley Falls. Check out the Canyoneers web site for more details, or visit our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Have a good week!

Photo from Garnet Peak

Hello Hikers!

I’m glad the unseasonably warm weather dissipated for the weekend, I hope everyone was able to take advantage of the beautiful weather and get outside! It’s looking like we have a chance of rain later in the week, so keep your eyes on the forecast to see how things progress.

Mark your calendars for the weekends of May 14 – 15 and May 21 – 22, the 13th annual San Diego River Days! There’s a host of different activities plan, including hikes, cleanup and restoration events, workshops, bike rides, and more. Check out the Event List here, there is something for everyone.

Also on May 21 is the A16 Backpacker’s Swap Meet & Sale at Adventure 16 in San Diego. You can buy, sell, or trade your gear at the swap meet, or head into the store for great deals and sale items.

Next Saturday, join the San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers as they hike the Torrey Pines State Reserve Extension. Intermediate 2 mile hike with elevation change up to 200 feet. See Torrey pines, native chaparral, and seasonal wildflowers on this easy walk to a vista point overlooking Peñasquitos Lagoon and the ocean. Visit the Canyoneers web page for more details, or check out our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

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Have a good week!