By now you’ve probably heard about the hiker that’s been missing near Warner Springs for nearly two weeks. Sadly, search efforts have been suspended due to the weather. Chris Sylvia began a southbound solo hike on the PCT starting from Anza, CA on February 12. He was supposed to meet a friend at the Buddhist Temple on Chihuahua Valley Road near Warner Springs to pick up provisions, but never showed for the meeting. Other hikers subsequently found his ID and equipment in the area. Sylvia is white, 5 feet 8 and around 155 pounds with brown hair, hazel eyes, a goatee and a mustache. He left on his trip wearing green camouflage pants, a dark fleece jacket and brown hiking boots. If you have any information related to his whereabouts, please contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department at (858) 565-5200.
The current storm also means wet and muddy trails, plus snow in the mountains. Keep in mind that a number of local parks and trails may be closed due to the rain and poor trail conditions, so you may want to check before you head out. The County Parks and Recreation News and Updates Page is a good resource for information about County Park closures. For other locations, check their local website or call ahead.
If you or anyone you know is headed up to the mountains for some snow play, please remember to exercise Leave No Trace principles and be respectful of the local residents in those areas. After the last snow storm on New Year’s, thousands of visitors flocked to mountain areas to play in the snow, and many people were trespassing on private property, blocking private driveways, climbing fences, and leaving piles of trash behind. I’ve even read reports that people were sledding in the Julian cemetery.
The long range forecast is showing nice weather for next weekend, so if you’re stuck inside because of the weather its a perfect opportunity to start making plans for next week! Next Sunday you can head out to William Heise County Park for the Sunday Hike with Ranger Dave. Join Ranger Dave for an easy to moderate guided hike to the beautiful Fern Trail. Our final destination will be the bubbling waters of Cedar Creek where sights and sounds of nature dominate the surroundings. Weather permitting, this hike will cover approximately one mile and last one hour. Bring hiking shoes, water and appropriate clothing. Participants can meet at the ranger station. Check out the County Parks and Recreation Events Guide for more information, or visit our Events Page for even more upcoming hikes.
Another place you might be interested in visiting is Torrey Pines State Reserve. After 4.5 years, the Parry Grove Trail has finally been reopened. There are reports of wildflowers beginning to bloom along the trail there, so this would be a great hike if you’re looking for something new.
Here’s your weekly roundup of Amazon deals:
- Save 50% or More Off Select Outdoor Clothing
- Up to 50% off Active Pants and Leggings
- Up to 40% Off Select Men’s Athletic Tops
- Up to 40% Off Men’s Hiking and Trail Shoes
- Up to 60% off Men’s Wolverine Footwear
- Up to 40% Off Women’s Hiking and Trail Shoes
Eddie Bauer‘s got some great deals this week as well:
- 40% – 70% Off All Clearance Outerwear for Women + Free Shipping Over $99
- 40% – 70% Off All Clearance Outerwear for Men + Free Shipping Over $99
- 30% Off Clearance Tops for Women + Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 with code 30CLEAR
- 30% Off All Clearance Shirts for Men + Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 with code 30CLEAR
Have a good week, and stay safe out there!
