Blog
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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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Willet Hot Springs: Hiking and Camping in Los Padres National Forest
A hot tub built for five sits high up on a cliff and nestled deep within a lush, green, forested canyon deep within Los Padres National Forest. The Willet Hot Springs hot tub is a rewarding experience at the end of a long hike. Hiking the Sespe River Trail The hike to Willet Hot Springs…
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Leave No Trace Principles for Hiking and Camping Explained
Whether you’re new to hiking and camping or just starting, chances are you’re familiar with the term, “Leave no trace,” (LNT). But, are you familiar with the ethics and principles underlying the Seven Leave No Trace Principles? So, what does it mean to Leave no Trace? Simply put, it means leaving nature the way we…
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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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Snake Bite First Aid and Prevention when You’re on the Trail
For those of us who enjoy heading out into the wilderness, snake encounters are a fact of life. The good news is that the chance of being bitten by a venomous snake is very low, while the likelihood of surviving a bite is extremely high. According to the CDC, “It has been estimated that 7,000–8,000…
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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…