Day Hikes
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Gaskill Peak: Off-trail Adventures in San Diego’s Backcountry
Gaskill Peak and Lawson Peak are known for their challenging ascents and rewarding views. They share much of the same hiking trails and scenery, so I’m picking this trail report up where my report on Lawson Peak ended. Also, if you haven’t read that report yet, be sure to check it out for a description…
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Lawson Peak Trail: Hiking, Scrambling and Climbing to the Summit
Lawson Peak is a hike you do for the challenge, not simply to get out in nature. The scramble to the summit may test your nerve if you are not a practiced rock climber. Although it can be challenging in some areas, determined peak baggers will reach the top. Lawson Peak Trailhead & Parking The…
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El Cajon Mountain Trail: San Diego’s “Toughest” Hike is Waiting for You
Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding hike near San Diego? Look no further than El Cajon Mountain, a.k.a. El Capitan, a popular destination for experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. El Cajon Mountain Trail is located in the El Capitan Open Space Preserve in Lakeside, Ca. Encompassing 2619 acres of protected space, the preserve has…
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Three Sisters Falls Trail – The Summer Experience
Three Sisters Falls Trail Cleveland National Forest is home to some of San Diego’s most revered hiking trails, campgrounds, and backcountry destinations. Not least among them is the Three Sisters Falls trail. Located in Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County, California, Three Sisters Falls is a challenging but rewarding hike. The trail takes you…
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Pyles Peak: Part of the 5 Peak Challenge and Mission Trails’ Best Kept Secret
While Cowles Mountain Trail is a popular destination for hikers, the challenge alone can fall short for some. Fortunately, a nearby adventure awaits, providing stunning views and a more secluded experience. Pyles Peak offers all the rewards of Cowles Mountain with fewer people and more nature. So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready…
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Mt Woodson Trail Hike to Potato Chip Rock from Lake Poway
Mt Woodson Trail is one of San Diego’s most popular hiking destinations, and for good reason. In addition to the challenging workout and scenic views it offers, Potato Chip Rock is located just below Woodson’s summit and draws visitors from around the world. The 7.25-mile out-and-back hike starts at beautiful Lake Poway. From there, the…
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Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail via Mule Hill Trail
Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail will keep you challenged all the way to the summit. The trail, which starts at the Coast-to-Crest trail junction, leads up the mountain from a beautiful green valley to the summit. There, you’ll have a clear view of more of San Diego’s most popular hiking spots in the distance. Whether your…
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Iron Mountain Peak Trail Hike – The “Short” Trail
When it comes to views of the local mountains, the view from the summit of Iron Mountain Trail in San Diego is as good as it gets. The family-friendly hike begins in Poway off Highway 67, just a few short miles from another favorite hike of mine, Mt. Woodson. At about six miles round trip, the…
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Black Mountain Hike San Diego: Miner’s Ridge Loop and Nighthawk Trail to the Summit
Miner’s Ridge Loop Trail is centrally located in Black Mountain Open Space Park in San Diego. It offers 360-degree views, including an unobstructed view of the mountains to the east. The trail is well-traveled and popular among hikers and mountain bikers. There is no entrance fee for the park and ample parking is available at…
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Kwaay Paay Peak Hike from the Old Dam Trailhead
Kwaay Paay Peak Hike is a challenging hike with a quick ascent that takes you through a forest of manzanita trees, making it an enjoyable experience. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be ready for a workout that will challenge your legs and lungs as you ascend to the summit. Keep in mind that it’s a…