Stonewall Peak is one of the most popular hikes in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. It is a relatively short and easy climb with a great payoff in the form of sweeping views of large swathes of the park, including a clear view of Lake Cuyamaca to the north. Although the area suffered tremendous damage during the 2003 Cedar fire, thick chaparral has regrown over the hillside and the path actually has some decent shade. Continue reading Stonewall Peak (Cuyamaca Rancho State Park)
Category Archives: Peaks
Garnet Peak via Pioneer Mail Picnic Area
After last year’s Chariot fire ran through Mount Laguna, I wasn’t sure what would be left along this section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). But I’ve always enjoyed this hike, and was optimistic that a year would have been enough time for some recovery to have taken place. I’m happy to report we were not disappointed. It looks as though the fire only hit patches of this area, and those parts that did burn are showing plenty of new life. Continue reading Garnet Peak via Pioneer Mail Picnic Area
Bernardo Mountain
The Lake Hodges area in Escondido is a popular destination for mountain bikers and hikers looking for a a good trek not too far from home. While its convenient location means you’ll be amid freeways and homes for much the hike, they’re far enough away that reasonable peace and solitude is achievable. The climb up Bernardo Mountain provides both a good workout and expansive views. Continue reading Bernardo Mountain
Mission Trails – South and North Fortuna Mountains
Mission Trails Regional Park is one of the most popular hiking areas in San Diego County. While the park’s Cowle’s Mountain trail is easily the most well-known hike in the park, there are plenty of other less crowded (and in my opinion, more scenic) trails to explore. This route combines two of the park’s major summits in a 7.6 mile hike that will give you a great workout with some fantastic views along the way. Continue reading Mission Trails – South and North Fortuna Mountains
Volcan Mountain Summit/Five Oaks Trail
Located just north of downtown Julian, the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is a 3,000 acre Preserve run by the San Diego County Parks and Recreation Department. While many parts of neighboring Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the Laguna Mountains have suffered from the devastating wildfires of recent years, the unscathed Volcan Mountain offers an increasingly rare trek through lush oaks and conifers. Continue reading Volcan Mountain Summit/Five Oaks Trail