Photo: Pictographs Trail in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Hello Hikers!

I hope everyone was able to use their extra hour to get some more trail time in this weekend. It looks like things are going to warm up a bit this week.

Next Saturday, celebrate Veteran’s Day by joining the County Parks Warrior Challenge at El Capitan Open Space Preserve. County Parks is hosting a Veterans Day Warrior Hike – designed to “wow” and challenge local heroes and their families. Come to hike or support your military! Choose from 3 adventures: an easy 1-mile jaunt to the ridge for a beautiful view of eastern San Diego. This hike is 2 miles round-trip, and is open to all ages. Skilled hikers can continue on to the next peak located roughly 3 miles in, for a total of 6 miles, round-trip. This hike is best suited for teens and adults in good shape. The final warrior-level trek is not for the faint of heart or ability; warriors will hike 10 – 12 miles, traversing multiple inclines and declines with several hundred feet of elevation gain and loss. Check out the County Parks and Recreation Program Guide for more information, or visit our Events Page to find even more upcoming hikes and events.

The Anza Borrego Foundation is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, and in honor of this milestone they are inviting hikers to participate in the 5 Hikes for 50 Years challenge! Complete the following 5 hikes and take a selfie at an easily identifiable location unique to that hike before June 1, 2017, and you will receive a signed certificate and commemorative 50th Anniversary sticker:

• Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail
• The Slot
• Pictograph Trail, with optional Smuggler Canyon Overlook Extension
• Calcite Mine
• Mountain Palm Springs Loop, with optional Torote Bowl Extension

Visit the ABF’s 5 Hikes For 50 Years web page for more information.

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

• Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad $54.95
• KingCamp Solar Shower 20 Litre with Temperature Gauge
• Save an Additional 15% off Womens North Face Jackets!
• KingCamp Heavy Duty Folding Arm Chair with Comfotable High Back
• AMC Fleece Contoured Stretchy Ear Band $4.99 – $10.19

Have a good week!

Photo: Corte Madera Mountain