The final stretch to the top of Volcan Mountain

This Week in San Diego Hiking – July 3, 2017

The final stretch to the top of Volcan MountainPhoto: Volcan Mountain

Hello Hikers!

I hope you’re getting a day or two off of work for the holiday so you can get some extra hiking in! If you’re still trying to figure out what to do for the 4th, consider a hike up Volcan Mountain to enjoy fireworks from the summit. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the many firework displays around San Diego County from Volcan Mountain summit. This hike is moderately strenuous with a elevation gain of 1,000 ft. and a round-trip distance of 5.5 miles. Dress in layers, wear hiking boots and bring snacks and plenty of water. On the hike up, learn about the area’s history and geography as you take in a coastal sunset while waiting for the fireworks to begin! Then, kick back and enjoy the show. Plan ahead; a fully charged flashlight will help guide you down the mountain in the moonlight. This event meets at the Hubbell gate. Visit the county news center for more information.

The San Dieguito River Park has announced that they are close to breaking ground on a new segment of the Coast to Crest Trail in Pamo Valley. This new segment will connect the Lower Santa Ysabel Truck Trail (from Boden Canyon to Pamo Road) and the Upper Santa Ysabel Truck Trail (Pamo Road to near Lake Sutherland), resulting in 12 contiguous miles of trail. The segment is expected to be open in 2018.

The San Diego Union Tribune has an article about a new exhibit opening at Leo Carillo Ranch. The display will include photos of life at the ranch, adobe bricks similar to those used to build the ranch houses, and a 13 minute film about Carillo and the ranch. You could just drive there to see the exhibit, but we recommend utilizing the nearby trail system for an enjoyable hike to the ranch.

NBC San Diego has an interview with the three hikers who were rescued after being stranded in Baja California while hiking the rugged Picacho Del Diablo. The group had fortunately left their itinerary with a family member who was able to promptly alert authorities when they did not check in as scheduled. Always let someone know your plans and when you are expected to return. The group also used a reflective emergency blanket to signal a search helicopter.

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Have a good week!

Photo: Wilderness Gardens Preserve