Hello Hikers!

I think I’m having weather deja vu – it’s been another hot weekend, and we have the possibility of rain to look forward to early this week as well. Personally, I am ready for fall.

If you heard about the creeper who was stalking female hikers in the San Bernadino area, we are happy to share that a suspect was arrested last Thursday.

Also in recent news is this story about more poor judgement when dealing with a rattlesnake. A man walking at Chollas Lake on Wednesday attempted to move a rattlesnake off the trail with his bare hands and was bitten in the process. He was transported to the hospital for treatment and his injuries did not appear life-threatening. The best thing to do if you encounter a rattlesnake is to give it wide berth and leave it alone. If you do feel the need to get it off the trail for your own safety or the safety of other trail users, you can toss small rocks or sticks in its general direction (do not attempt to HIT the snake) to encourage it off the trail. Don’t ever try to grab a rattlesnake with your bare hands, I don’t care how many episodes of Crocodile Hunter you’ve watched.

Next Sunday, September 27, we will have a Supermoon Lunar Eclipse! In San Diego, the moon will rise partially eclipsed at 6:36 pm. The total eclipse beings at 7:11 pm, maximum eclipse is at 7:47 pm, and it ends at 8:23 pm (check out www.timeanddate.com for more). There are plenty of activities scheduled if you’re looking for a group:

• The Friends of Rose Canyon are hosting an eclipse viewing hike from 6:30 – 8:00.
• The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy will be having a Full Moon Hike at San Dieguito Lagoon from 7:00 – 9:00. Register here: http://form.jotform.us/form/51706110881146.
• There will be eclipse viewing at the Anza Borrego State Park Visitor’s Center from 6:30 – 8:30.

Of course you can also head out on your own for an eclipse-viewing night hike. Some of our favorite night spots are Iron Mountain, Cowles Mountain, and Garnet Peak. Make sure you bring your headlamps and extra batteries, since it will obviously be particularly dark with no moonlight!

Here’s the latest outdoor deals from Amazon:

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• 50% or More Off Columbia Outerwear for Boys
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• 30% Off Showers Pass Women’s Rogue Hoodie
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Have a good week!