Take on the Mission Trails 5-Peak Challenge

5-Peak Challenge - North Fortuna Peak

On Saturday, November 7, Mission Trails Regional Park announced the 5-Peak Challenge to bring attention to the park’s 60 miles of mixed-use trails that lead to 5 of the highest peaks in the city of San Diego.

Mission Trails is home to some of my favorite local hikes, so there was no question wh…

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El Cajon Mountain Trail: Taking on San Diego’s “Toughest” Hike

Hiking El Cajon Mountain Trail

Distance: 11 miles | Hiking time: 5-6 hours | More info.

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 …

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Willet Hot Springs: Hiking and Camping in Los Padres National Forest

Willet Hot Springs: Hiking and Camping in Los Padres National Forest

Tucked away deep inside a lush green forested canyon, and perched high up on a cliff in Los Padres National Forest, is a hot tub built for five. Assembled and still maintained by some incredibly resourceful, and apparently anonymous folks, the Willet Hot Springs hot tub is a rewarding experience at t…

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Leave No Trace Principles for Hiking and Camping Explained

Use Map & Compass Instead of Cairns - photo by Craig Stanfill

Whether you’re new to hiking and camping or just starting out, chances are you’re familiar with the term, “Leave no trace.”

So what exactly does it mean to leave no trace?

The answer to that question seems straightforward, and for the most part it is, but there are a few details you may not have consider…

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Three Sisters Falls Trail – A Beautiful Destination Hike, With One Caveat

Three Sisters Falls Hike

Distance: 4.0 miles | Hiking time: 3 hours | More info.

Introducing 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 Three Sisters Falls trail.

Located in Cleveland Nat

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Pyles Peak in Mission Trails – a Little Known Hidden Gem

Pyles Peak trail sign

Distance: 6 miles | Hiking time: 3 hours | More info.

Discover Pyles Peak

While Cowles Mountain Trail is a popular destination for hikers, the challenge by itself can fall a little short for some. Fortunately, there is a hidden gem nearby that provides stunning views and a more secluded experience. P

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Mt Woodson Trail Hike to Potato Chip Rock: Challenge Yourself and Take a Bite of the Chip

Potato Chip Rock on Mt. Woodson Summit

Distance: 7.25 miles | Hiking time: 4.5 hours | More info.

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 v…

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Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail – a Scenic Hike with a View of Beautiful Lake Hodges

Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail

Distance: 7.2 miles | Hiking time: 3.5 hours | More info.

Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail will keep you challenged all the way to the summit. The trail 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 spot…

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