This Week in San Diego Hiking – May 30, 2016

20150131DSC_6735-EditMemorialDay

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.

Here’s the latest outdoor and fitness deals from Amazon:

Have a good week!

Kanaka Flat at Santa Ysabel EastPhoto: Santa Ysabel East Preserve