Day Hikes
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Noble Canyon Trail – Hiking and Finding Relics of the Past in the Laguna Mountains
Noble Canyon Trail was named after William Noble, who was an early settler in the area during the 1800s. He was known for his success in the mining industry and his contributions to the local community. The trail was established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a program that provided jobs for young…
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Eagle Peak Hike – Heading Out from Three Sisters Falls Trail
Eagle Peak is a frequently overlooked hike that shares a trailhead with Three Sisters Falls. With an elevation of 3226’, it is currently ranked 69th on the 100 Peaks of San Diego County list. Trailhead to Eagle Peak Trail My friend Ian and I began our hike to Eagle Peak from the trailhead at approximately…
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Three Sisters Falls – A Springtime Reunion Waterfall Hike and One of the Best Waterfalls in San Diego
Last summer a friend and I decided to hike Three Sisters Falls. We chose the absolute worst time of year to make the trek and we were disappointed, but not surprised, to find that the falls were dry…
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Grapevine Mountain Hike – Going Off-Trail from the PCT in Anza Borrego
John, a friend I met on Instagram (@adventuregraham), asked me to join him on the Grapevine Mountain hike in the Anza Borrego Desert with him. I eagerly accepted. Not only is Grapevine Mountain #51/100 on the Sierra Club’s 100 Peaks of San Diego list, but I had hiked with John before and was certain this…
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Bell Bluff Trail: Adventures in Off-trail Bushwhacking and Scrambling
Most of the trails I’ve hit recently, including Middle Peak, Pine Mountain, Lawson, and Gaskill Peak, have all tested me in ways I had never expected. Bell Bluff trail is just the latest hike to offer up a challenge. With bushwhacking, route finding, and rock scrambling, this hike delivers adventure at every turn. Bell Bluff…
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Garnet Peak Trail – Catch a Sunrise on the Summit in the Laguna Mountains
If you’re looking for a moderate hike with breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego County, look no farther than Garnet Peak Trail in the Laguna Mountains. At 5900 feet, Garnet Peak is the seventh-highest peak in San Diego County. It offers spectacular views of the Sawtooth Mountains, the Pacific Crest Trail, and beyond. Although summiting…
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Pine Mountain Trail Loop: A Summit Adventure Hike in the Laguna Mountains
If you’ve been following my hikes, you’re likely aware that I’ve been tackling San Diego’s Highest Peaks. On Monday, I headed to the Laguna Mountains to hike Garnet Peak and Pine Mountain Trail, my 17th and 18th peaks. While Schad’s hiking guide, Afoot & Afield: San Diego County, provides detailed descriptions of both hikes, my…
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My Cold Weather Hiking Clothes Tested on Cuyamaca and Stonewall Peaks in the Snow
Introduction Over the last couple of years, I have been putting together an effective system of cold-weather hiking clothes. I designed my clothing system for three-season use. Later this year, I’m planning to hike the JMT. As a result, I am preparing for the unpredictable nature of the weather high up in the Sierra Nevada…
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Viejas Mountain Trail: A Quick Hike to an Ancient Kumeyaay Ceremonial Site with 360 Degree Views
Hiking Viejas Mountain Trail The hike to the summit of Viejas Mountain trail begins with a steep 1.5-mile ascent from the trailhead. Remember to display your Adventure Pass in your vehicle when parking here, or anywhere within Cleveland National Forest. Wearing good hiking shoes or trail runners will give you confidence in the technical trail…
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McGinty Mountain Trail via Jamul Dr – Hiking for Peaks and Valleys Galore!
McGinty Mountain trail is a fun, challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views that don’t require setting aside an entire day. The steep trail takes you quickly up the mountain’s face and through some of the most diverse and rare plant life in San Diego. The trail offers an endless supply of photo opportunities and scenic…