San Diego’s most popular peak can be accessed along a far less crowded, yet equally as enjoyable trail. Many San Diego residents are familiar with Cowles Mountain, one of the most easily accessible peaks in central San Diego. Yet few are aware of the Big Rock Trail, which winds up the back side of Cowles […]
Lawson Peak Trail | San Diego, CA
It may be a bit of a drive to get to and essentially in the middle of nowhere, but Lawson Peak is worth the epic climb. Located in the southern end of Cleveland National Forest, Lawson Peak towers high above the ground next to the equally as impressive Gaskill Peak. The moderately steep ascent up […]
Old Banner Toll Road Trail | Julian, CA
There are a multitude of reasons to pay a visit to the small town of Julian: delectable dutch apple pies, apple picking, and prime star gazing opportunities just to name a few. Often disregarded are the hiking trails grazing through the outskirts of town. Some will lead you up winding paths to the top of […]
Flume Trail, El Monte County Park | San Diego, CA
When one thinks of hiking in Lakeside typically the beast best known as El Cajon Mountain is top of mind, but there are several trails nearby that also deserve attention. One of those is the relatively new Flume Trail in El Monte County Park. As the name suggests the Flume Trail crosses the remanants of […]
Middle Peak Trail, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park | San Diego, CA
There are few places in San Diego that experience true fall and spring seasons. The town of Julian is one of them. The nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is another. Aside from the trees being painted in beautiful hues of amber and gold in the fall, this state park draws hikers in with its extensive list […]
Santa Margarita Preserve | San Diego, CA
One sunny summer afternoon I got in my car and drove aimlessly, ending up in Fallbrook, about an hour north of San Diego. Looking for recluse from the blazing sun, I found the Santa Margarita Preserve, a shady sanctuary with a well-preserved river running alongside the majority of the trail. The Santa Margarita Preserve is […]
Pine Ridge Trail, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park | San Diego, CA
There’s something to be said about experiencing a true fall/spring hike as a San Diego resident—namely because finding a location in San Diego that experience a season other than summer is almost futile. But taking a scenic drive out to Julian will give you a true fall, spring, and winter hiking experience. Luckily, Julian houses […]
Agua Dulce Loop Trail, Mount Laguna | San Diego, CA
A mere 45 minutes away from central San Diego lies a plethora of picturesque hikes in Laguna Mountains. Despite its relative proximity to San Diego, many locals aren’t familiar with Laguna Mountains, which make it an ideal destination for those looking for a quick escape away from the city. Due to its higher elevation and […]
Sunset Trail, Mount Laguna | San Diego, CA
Sunny San Diego is known best for its abundance of sandy beaches and near-perfect weather. What many often overlook are the nearby mountains, a quick 45-minute drive from downtown. One of these mountains, Mount Laguna to be precise, is a true gem for nature lovers. With its dense pine forest, sprawling meadows, and crisp mountain air, Mount […]
Otay River Valley Trail | San Diego, CA
I almost hesitated to write this post because the greater majority of my posts rant and rave about local trails. However, I also want to give people my honest opinion, even if that opinion may deter people from checking out a trail. Chula Vista is hardly my go-to option when scoping out hikes in San […]