It’s A Volcano! Lake Calavera Preserve: Carlsbad, CA….10/08/2020

My go to hike these days in North County San Diego is Lake Calavera Preserve. aka ‘The Volcano.’ Located in the Tri-City North County area of Oceanside, Carlsbad and Vista is an ecological preserve and home to Calavera Mountain. The word ‘Calavera’ means skull, which probably comes from the unusual shape of the area’s centerpiece, Mount Calavera. The 513-ft. Mount Calavera is not really a mountain at all but rather a 22 million-year-old volcanic plug. 

A standout feature hiking the preserve is the variety and vastness of the more than seventeen-mile trail system. I have done six different routes with four of them leading to the peak.

My favorite and preferred way up is from the western side of the plug where the trail divides. Go west on the trail from the Skyhaven trailhead start to cross the Dam and start the gentle ascent up to the volcano floor. Once at the base of the volcano check our the rock-pattern labyrinth to the left or continue right on the trail-head south.

You will come to the section of the trail that starts to descend south through a gulley or eroded rut. If you go left a spur will begin the ascent towards the peak. The trail composition half-way up is hard-packed and at times slippery sand. The last half of the trail becomes rockier.

Once you start ascending, the trail will guide you. Stay left going north and you will come to the Volcano’s ridge or edge. Go right and then a steep rocky eastern ascent to the peak. Once at the top check out the trinket memorial garden and the exposed area of the summit.

Alternate to this route to the peak is to continue south past the spur to the peak towards the high school in the far distance. You will descend the rocky gulley or eroded rut section. It will end at the intersection with the south-side or backside trail. A low concrete wall follows the trail east. Go left to trek behind the volcano out to a wide expanse. There is a pathway to the peak off of the backside trail, keep your eyes peeled to the left about three-hundred yards along this section of trail.

From here there are numerous spurs that will take you around the preserve. Also, you can go to the water tower which can be seen in the far off southern distance. Continuing on the backside trail section will take you on the longer loop around the back of the Volcano.

It’s hard to get lost here. Skyhaven Drive is within view from most sections of the trail. Also, the volcano serves as a huge landmark to navigate around. Besides Skyhaven you can enter the preserve at the corner of College and College where the High school is located.

Also you can start the hike t the Skyhaven trailhead going east. Following this route takes you to a vegetation canopy over a wooden bridge. This section of the trail takes you to the east side of the Volcano and to the lake trail or wide open spaces to the backside of the Volcano.

Whatever trail you choose you cannot go wrong at Lake Calavera Preserve.

Have Fun and Hike On!

At Volcano edge

Iron Mountain, Poway CA 01/31/2020 Hiker Therapy

Time to Hike: 10 AM-1:30 PM STEPS: 14,500 Distance:  6.8 miles out and back   Hikeability:  moderate to difficult  Snacks/Water:  Cliff bar, orange, tuna sandwich, 2L water  Temp:  75 degrees 

I am no stranger to hiking Iron Mountain, but it’s been a minute since I last have.  In act its been at least a year-and-a-half  A hike I had annually done 3-4 times all of a sudden felt very big and quite challenging.  But, on this crystal clear indigo blue sky morning, Iron stands proud and awaits to be submitted.

Iron is located in Poway, CA at the intersection of Poway Rd. and Hwy. 67. 

Parking is convenient and close to the trailhead. There are also concrete pit toilet restrooms off of the parking area. On the weekends the parking lot fills up quick and you may have to park along Hwy. 67.

Iron is one of my favorite trailhead welcomes.  You are greeted by the iconic archways and then a 100 yards from there the ‘official” start, a dense canopy of oaks leads you fifty yards to the long open sandy trail start and your 3.3-mile trek to the summit.  About a quarter of a mile from here you come to a side spur you can take right.  You can also continue on along the more popular route going straight.  I always appreciate options along the trail. 

Either way, you can not get lost on this well-marked trail to the summit.   The only differences are the views and trail composition. The more traditional route is rockier and eroded.  The ‘short-cut’ spur is hard-packed sand through scrub oaks and low lying brush with a birds-eye view of the peak.

Each leads to the other and the same ascending single trail route to the peak. At the 1.5 mile mark, you will come to the mileage board indicating directions to key points along the way including the summit of Iron Mt. 

The highlights of this hike begin at this stage of the hike. The incredible scenic views east of the Ramona foothills and the surrounding area of Julian, CA are breathtaking. Be sure you keep your eyes peeled for the ‘white cross’ tucked into the eastern mountainous landscape as you start to ascend.  

This scenic hike does not disappoint in trail challenge and composition.  Much of the time the trail is hard-packed sand to offer good footing.  At times ankle-twisting jagged rock creates a true mountain adventure feel. As the trail ascends natural steps, slabs made of rock, help you navigate your climb to the peak.  For me this is what makes this trail fun and spontaneous.

The last leg of the trail offers incredible views west including the parking lot far below, Hwy. 67 and on a clear day the Pacific Ocean.  From this vantage point, you can gauge how high you have climbed. Look close and you can see Bernardo Mountain.  Look north and you can see Iron’s sister hike, Mt. Woodson and the TV and radio towers adorning the Woodson summit. 

Trekking on and as soon as you ask yourself, “when are we going to get to the top?” the trail unassumingly leads you to the summit. 

The summit of iron is spread out allowing for different spots to rest, including a few picnic tables to share lunch at.  ( how did they get these tables up here?).  Scrub oak, low-lying brush and rock cover the top of Iron Stroll as far south as you can and you get a beautiful view of a pristine shimmering lake off in the distance.

From here you can see a wide expanse of the county in all directions.  Being up here again reminds me this may be the best view from any peak in the county. This is a peak you do not mind spending a good amount of time at. 

Another perk to this hike is although it over three miles back the scenic views along the way provide for a soothing different view of things.  Before you know it you are passing the Helipad ( for emergency rescues) and coming up to the location/direction signboard and are only one and a half miles from the trailhead start. 

When you come upon the section of the trail that offers the side spur back mix it up and choose the trail you did not take on the ascent. 

Soon you will be approaching the Oak Grove canopy to guide you back to the trailhead start.   Iron Mountain never disappoints with its scenic beauty, trail challenge and the sense of accomplishment you have hiked an adventurous mountain trail.

An added bonus and reward of hiking Iron Mountain and other Poway Peaks is the Stable Juice Smoothie shop at Twin Peaks and Espola Rds.  The best smoothies in the county are served here.  Treat yourself and bask in the accomplishment of the hike.  

 

 

 

 

Monserate Mountain Preserve, Fallbrook Land Conservancy, 03/06/2019 Hiker Therapy

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Time to Hike:  12-3pm   STEPS: 9600 Distance:  3.3 miles out and back   Hikeability:  moderate to difficult in spots  Snacks/Water:  Orange, snack bar, 1.5L water     Temp:  low 75 degrees 

Directions to hike :  From the North or South Exit from Interstate 15 at 76/ Pala Road and drive west to Old Highway 395 and turn right (north). Drive 2.6 miles then turn right on Stewart Canyon Road and go east under the Interstate to Pankey Road. Turn right and park on the right. The start of the trail is across the street and is marked by a sign 

From the coast:  Hwy 76 to Hwy 395, turn left, Drive 2.6 miles then turn right on Stewart Canyon Road and go east under the Interstate to Pankey Road. Turn right and park on the right. The start of the trail is across the street and is marked by a sign

One of my Top 5 North County Hikes is Monserate Mountain in Fallbrook, CA.   Today I hiked the “Short way” up.  However, this 3.3 mile round trip out and back hike offers a good challenge for legs and cardio which make it well worth the hike.  In fact I used Monserate as one of my training hikes to get in shape to hike Mt. Whitney a few years back.  

The trailhead off of Pankey road is on the opposite side to the parking area.  The trail start leads you direct east for a hundred yards towards the mountain with a gradual incline slope ascent leading you on your way.  The majority of earthen trail transitions to a majority rock and loose gravel composition.  Look back and to your west and you will see Interstate 15 and the parking area where your car is. 

As you wind your way up this rugged trail you will come to a service road at about the .75 mile mark.  Make a left here for the remaining of the trail to the Peak.  That’s the trail I took.   Today, the plant life and brush are a beautiful mixture of various shades of natural green.  Lavender and yellow flowering plants adorn the trail.   The recent rains can be congratulated for this.   Its the most colorful Monserate has been since I started hiking it, five years ago.

Continuing your climb you will be greeted by a few trail posts providing distance to various viewpoints and th Peak.  On your way up tribute markers to 911 mark the trail as well. .  These  911 tributes pay homage to those who lost their lives on that fateful day.  Each marker states the election using floors of the World Trade Center. see photo

Continue ascending, the trail alternates between very loose and jagged rock and hard packed earth.  Today the earth and usual brown soil is a rich red due to the past week’s rains. The trail levels out at about the 1.25-mile mark for about .3 of a mile.  Here you begin your final push to the peak hiking a 30-degree slope to the top.  100 yards from the peak you will see the American Flag waving i the wind cleaning it sake of being planted at the summit of Monserate Mountain.

Monserate is one of my favorite Peaks.  The views are breathtaking as you look west to the Pacific Ocean and east to the Palomar Mountain Range and The Cleveland National Forest. Sign in at the ammo box which contains the Summit Journal.  Relax and enjoy your accomplishment, rest, hydrate and exchange conversation with other hikers sharing this moment with you. The descent back is the same trail.  

Once you hike Monserate, you too will add it to your go-to list of hikes in San Diego County…… HIke On!   

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Oakzanita Peak via East Mesa Fire Road Trail: Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, East Mesa Trailhead 01/10/2019 Hiker Therapy

Distance: 7.14 mi Steps:  16128  Elevation Gain: 1150′ Hike Time: 3:09:22min Temp: 70’s Hikeability:  Moderate Strenuous  

Water & Snack: 1.5 liters out of 2 taken, Probar, Orange. 

Directions: East Mesa Fire Road Trailhead:  Take I-8 East toward Alpine and continue east to exit 40, signed as Hwy 79/Japatul Rd.  Exit here. Go north on Hwy 79 about 4 miles to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park East Mesa, which is on the right. There is side of the road parking on an asphalt turnout. no facilities or drinking water.  (Please see photo below for TrailHead Sign) 

Another route if coming from North County: Take I-5 south to SR 78 in San Diego County. Go east on SR 78 through Escondido to the junction with SR 79 just past the town of Julian. Turn right (south) on SR 79.Go south on SR 79 for 9 miles to the Cuyamaca Dam.Continue 2.7 miles to the entrance to Paso Picacho Park on the right. Continue 5.6 miles further (mile marker 4) to a gated dirt road on the left side. Park on the left just before this road.

 

Hiking the North Eastern back country of San Diego County offers such unique, scenic and beautiful trails to hike.  Im always enthusiastic  to explore what this area has to offer and the personailty of each trail. 

 

This was my first time hiking Oakzanita Trail, which is part of the Cuyamaca Mountain Range.  However, I am familiar with some of the other trails in the surrounding Julian and Cuyamaca State Park area such as: Stonewall Peak, MIddle Mountain, Cuyamaca Peak and to the West and North:  Eagle Peak, Three Sisters and Cedar Creek Falls, Vulcan Mountain and Santa Ysabel. All great trails to consider if you havent done them.

 

The trailhead to Oakzanita Peak  starts by taking the East Mesa Fire Road Trail which is clearly marked at the trailhead start (see above photo).  From here we stayed on the road the entire 2.9 miles up the trail until it links into the Oakzanita Trail which is a 1.5 mile hike over to Oakzanita Peak.

My three favorite hiking colors in nature, brown, green and blue were on full display this Thursday morning.  The rich beige and browns of the hard packed earth and sand Fire Road Trail trail, the vivid bright blue sky and natures various shades of green on full display as the vegetation of the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park area was brought to life by recent rains.  

 

 

There is an alternative trail which branches off of the Fire Road called Upper Descanso Creek Trail which links in about .6 mi from the trail head start point and in fact is the trail we took down from the Peak.     Upper Descanso Creek Trail will link you into the Oakzanita Trail.  Taking this way up is a much steeper ascent but does knock of nearly .75 mile off the hike.  Thus if you took this section up and back your hike would be about 1.5 miles less in distance than doing the Fire Road out and back. 

 

As we made a right turn at the Oakzanita Trail sign, we knew we had about 1.5  mile to go over to Oakzanita Peak.  This was my favorite part of the hike.  As you gaze left you see wide open meadows, the East Mesa, that seemingly stretches for miles.  To the right, the view of Oakzanita Peak becomes clear and its boulder encrusted summit juts out in majestic form.  

 

Soon you will come to another marker that states .6 to Oakzanita Peak.  From here the trail gets rockier but well worth the last push and ascent to the peak.  Beautiful 360 views from the peak including views of Stonewall Peak, Cuyamaca Peak and Middle Mountain as well as in the distance Eagle Peak.

 

To descend go back .6 mile to the Oakzanita Trail  marker and decide if you want to go back the same way up along the Fire Road Trail the 2.9 miles or turn left at the marker and join  the Upper East Mesa Creek Trail which will take you 1.6 miles  to the Fire Road and back to the trailhead start.  This route is somewhat less in distance and a narrower rockier trail.  However, I liked going back this way to add more diversity of vegetation and scenery.  

 

Love my first time hiking Oakzanita.  My son, better known as the Trailmaster due to his ability to find these rich and fulfilling hikes had hiked this before and wanted to introduce me to this adventurous hike.  Great challenge of trail, love the diversity of vegetation and scenery as well as incredible views.  Not to mention being out in nature and the calming theraputic effect nature provides.   
Hike on!

Ramona Grasslands County Preserve; Ramona. CA 11/07/2018 Hiker Therapy

 

Distance:  3.9mi   Elevation Gain: 380′ Date and Time: Wednesday Nov. 7. 2018 1:05Pm 1:29:23min Temp: 70’s Hikeability:  Easy  Water & Snack1.5 liters Probar, Orange

 

This scenic trail system consists of 2 separate trails tied together by the main trail to offer a 4 mile hike through the grasslands of Ramona.  The journey out to the Preserve is almost as adventurous as the hike itself through the winding twists and turns of Highland Rd if coming from I-15 as I did.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ramona Grasslands Preserve Sign Highland Valley Rd

Located southwest of the unincorporated township of Ramona, west of State Route 67, north of Highland Rd. and east and west of Rangeland Rd; trail head and staging area are on Highland Valley Rd., just east of Archie Moore Rd. Look for  sign right outside the trailhead gate.

 

 

 

 

 

The main trail is pretty much designed for horses so its wide, hard packed sand and very easy on the body.  Immediately off to the left and the trailhead start as you head west is the Meadow Loop which is .8 mile in length that offers some diversity in trail and vegetation

 

 

 

Ramona Grasslands

The Meadow Loop  takes you back into some areas that present nice views of the distant peaks of Iron Mt. and Mt Woodson.  I took this loop on the way back as it meets up with the main trailhead about .5 miles in from the staging area. You could take this loop and join up wit the main trail if you choose.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As you head west the entire Grasslands Preserve opens up before you to the Northside of the trail. The low lying grasslands are dotted with coastal sage scrub and oak woodlands   

 

 As I hiked along I spotted way off in the distance two coyotes making there way across the grasslands, a serene and surreal sight indeed, I was just glad they weren’t Bobcats.  Bobcats and Mountain Lions are common in the area, so its not uncommon to spot one.  As always be vigilant.

 

 

 

 

 

You will soon come to a sign post stating .2 miles to the Wildflower Loop, which is a 2.2 mile loop that veers right, continues west, northwest then curves south and then loops around back south east to the Wildflower loop sign, where you started your hike of this section of the Preserve a total of 2.2 miles.

 

The trail of the Wildflower loop consists of hard-packed earth, sand and soft sand.  The trail gets as wide as a single lane highway, great for the horses and bikers that use this trail, and then narrow to enough for one person to pass as you get halfway through the 2.2 section of the 4 mile trail system.

 

 

 

 

The same vegetation of coastal sage scrub and oak woodlands  is much of the vegetation until about the halfway point of the 2.2 mile loop.  Here the vegetation reduces to low lying sage scrub and broken chaparral. other indigenous plant life to the area.

 

You can’t go wrong on this trail as its easy to hike, is surrounded by beautiful open grasslands and enough oaks and sage scrub  to paint a very scenic landscape for a 4 mile hike. The Meadow Loop will bring you back to the original loop trail marker.

 

At this point veer right to head back east to the staging area.  You will soon come to the Meadow Loop on your right, which I took and headed south on the trail and back around to the very beginning of the staging area and trailhead start.

 

If you are looking for a change of pace hike that is very quiet, relaxing, easy, flat and a beautiful scenic view of the back country grasslands of Ramona, then the Ramona Grasslands Preserve is for you….As always lots of water, hike with a friend, snacks and Hike On!  

 

Hike The Lagoon: Batiquitos Lagoon; Carlsbad, CA 09/16/2018 Hiker Therapy

Distance3.5 miles   Date and Time:  Sunday, September 16, 2018 1 hour 5 minutes  Temp:  80’s  Hikeability:  Easy  Water & Snack:  1 liter, Orange

My usual Hiking repertoire includes the mountains, sometimes the coast and anything in between. A hike in the local North County San Diego area that gets little attention is the Batiquitos Lagoon located at 7380 Gabbiano Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011. 

 

The Lagoon is more a nature walk than a hike, but the natural beauty of the lagoon provides the same peace, calm, physical exercise and mental health relief as any hike you choose to do.  The beauty of hiking Batiquitos for me is that  you are skirting the lagoon and its beautiful shimmering body of water the entire out and back hike

 

The hike starts off at the end of Gabbiano Lane which dead ends into a Cul-de-sac.  parking is easy, although of the weekends is full. No problem, you will eventually find a spot. The trailhead start is landmarked by a Welcome to the Lagoon wood carved sign done by a local eagle Scout group.

 

As you start your hike you are immediately greeted but the Lagoon’s nature center for information and a restroom. Also, the Lagoon will start to appear on your right and do so the remainder of your hike around the lagoon.The I-5 freelway on the right is very apparent at this part of the hike but as the trail winds left you loose track, sight and sound of any hustle and bustle and the tranquility begins.

 

 

 

The hike itself is an easy, fast trail, mostly sand composition, few areas of hard packed earth.  The route is an easy out and back oath with toal distance of about 3.5 miles.  

 

Along the way there are strategically placed benches offering scenic views as well as lookouts with information boards on the lagoons impact of the area and the plant and animal life it sustains. 

 

 

 

A fun add-on is at about the 1 mile mark you will parallel on your left The Aviara Golf Course, a luxury hotel and spa with the same beautiful scenery as the Lagoon.

 

The trail ends about 1.75 mile east in a wide open acres filed that will stop you in a round-about-way and turn you around.  Enjoy the slow paced walk back and choose various inlet paths to mix up your return.

 

 

Hiker Therapy Hiking Batiquitos Lagoon, Carlsbad, CA

The highlight of this nature walk for me is the peace and tranquility the lagoon offers, even thought its right along side a major California Freeway, I-5 and surrounded by the homes, villas and townhouses of the Carlsbad area.  

 

The sounds of silence mixed in with the wildlife of the lagoon makes this a very pleasant experience and one I highly suggest for a Sunday stroll; along, with family, children or just walking your dog.   Hike On!

 

 

 

Batiquitos Lagoon; Carlsbad, CA

Santa Margarita River Trail, Fallbrook, CA Father’s Day Hike 06/18/2017 Hiker Therapy

Distance:  6 miles   Elevation Gain: 469′ Date and Time:  Sunday June, 18th  10am to 1pm  Temp:  70’s  Hikeability:  Easy-Moderate  Water & Snack:  1.5 liters, Probar, Orange

Directions to trailhead :   From the coast, take Highway 76 east and turn left on Mission Road, heading north. Take the first left onto Pico Road, which quickly becomes De Luz Road. Veer right onto Sandia Creek Road, and park on the trailhead just before the bridge.

A hike I’ve heard of more about from the local hiking community here in the North County section of San Diego is the Santa Margarita River Trail in Fallbrook, CA. This hidden gem of a trail parallels a clean clear slow moving river out into the back country and hills of Fallbrook.  

 

The trail is very well marked, much of the way soft sand with some ares of the trail rock and boulder “hazards” dotted along the way just to add some interest and challenge to this relatively easy trail.  

 

 

That said, at trails end, you really do feel like you have hiked a much more aggressive trail than what the Santa Margarita River Trail has to offer.   The fun part of this hike is at certain sections  2 miles out you can find “secret” areas that allow you to cross the river with a few rock climbs and bushwhacking (watch out for the Posion Oak)

 

You can  step rock to rock crossing the river leading which will lwad you to the continuation of trail on the other side of the river.  This continuation trail ends further  into the hills and at one point offers you a climb up to a plateau  and sweeping views of the Valley and distant mountains and hills.

 

 

On the way back we had to find a narrow area of the river so the we could cross. We eventually picked a spot that wasn’t too deep, took off our boots, rolled up out pants, and made the adventurous crossing, bare foot and all.  The river is clear, clean nd cooling on the feet.   

Quite refreshing after our previous 3 miles of hiking the trail and up into the hill

 

 

The Santa Margarita River Trail offers two “paths” to hike along, one that gets you closer to the rivers edge and one that is elevated and detours you around thechallenging parts of the river trail.  

Either way, as mentioned earlier, there is plenty of Poison Oak on this trial and from my 6 plus years of hiking San Diego County, the Sant Margarita River Trail has more Poison Oak than on any trail Ive hiked. 

All due respect to the back country of Jullian and Palomar Mountain trails as well 

 

 

A fun landmark along the way back at about mile 4 on the upper section of the trail was an old rusted out automobile hull, I’m guessing was at least 40 years old due to its all steel chassis (including the steering wheel) conuctrustion, bumper and all.  

The rusted hull of a vehicle makes for great photo opportunities and discovery.

 

The Santa margarita River Trail also is lined with beautiful green vegetation, oaks and other vine like flour and fauna, making some of this trail feel lie a jungle hike amidst lush tropical dense rai forest like atmosphere. The trail back is quick and before you know it you will be back at the gated trailhead and the parking lot.  

I always like finding new hiking spots and trails in a county we are so fortunate to have lots of diverse and beautiful hiking trails.

As always, don’t hike alone, respect your own limits, respect your partners limits, bring more water than you need and most important….have Fun!…Hike on! 

Cedar Creek Falls Trail Julian, CA 04/28/2018 Hiker Therapy

Distance:  5 .5 miles   Elevation Gain: 1100′ Date and Time:  Friday March 29. 2018  9:45am to 1:115pm  Temp:  70’s  Hikeability:  Strenuous  

Best Hiking Months:  November through early May  Water & Food: 4 Liters of water, lunch, snacks, orange for electrolytes

 

Hiking Cedar Creek Falls requires a permit, 75 daily issued.  Here is the link to get permit online

Cedar Creek Falls Hike is located on the Fringes of Julian and Ramona in the Cleveland National Forest  back county of San Diego County.  This is  “The Waterfall Hike” in our county.  It is also a hike of some noteriety due its recent years of being closed due to individuals dying on this hike.  Both from intoxication and jumping of the rocks at the Waterfall pool.  Also, some have died due to heat exhaustion, dehydration and a lack of water.  A caution sign at the trailhead speaks to these dangers and absolutely something you need to be aware of this hike. 

 

Direction to Cedar Creek falls; From Santa Ysabel(Dudley’s), take Highway 78 east towards Julian to Pine Hills Road, turn right (from this turn it is 30+ minutes to the trailhead). Turn right onto Eagle Peak Road.   The last 8 miles of Eagle Peak Road are dirt but part of the beauty of this hike is getting to the hike.  The back country of the Julian Ramona area is gorgeous.  This time of year it was green and flowers were out. Eagle Peak Rd will dead end into the cult-de sac trailhead start.

 

 

You can park alongside the road edge but be aware that on the weekends the road gets pretty full.  After you park walk towards the cul-de-sac with the tree in the middle of the road and veer right to the trailhead start. Interestingly on this weekend day (Saturday), there was not one car along side Eagle Peak Rd. as we arrived.  This was both a blessing and a question point for me.  Where is everyone, its 9:30am?  That said it seems since this hike has opened back up 5 years ago, many use the Thornbush Rd trailhead start in a neighborhood area of Ramona. So, the fact nobody was here was a good thing parking wise, it only added to the ominous feeling of this hike right from the start.  So much open vastness, rolling high peaked hills, and lots of it for miles in each direction. 

 

This trail is unique in many ways including the fact that unlike most hikes, the start to this hike immediately begins to descend for the next 2.75 miles it takes to get the waterfall.That’s the good news, but like anything that must go down, you must also go up.  Although not a steep ascent it is long and can get very hot.  I will take the opportunity to stress the importance of taking a lot of water on this hike; a gallon per person is what I suggest along with snacks and oranges. The caution sign in the phot indicates the dangers of this hike.  Cedar creek is very doable, but it can get ruhot, dry and rugged which adds to the difficulty level of this hike by at least 3 points.  0-10 this hike is a 6-7 difficulty wise, add heat its a 8-9.

 

The topography on this hike creates a sense of vastness and an open feel that adds to the majestic views that surround you. You are essentially descending the entire trail to a valley surrounded by the local mountains of the Cleveland National Forest.  The trail is very hike-able and although it is strewn with rocks in places the vast majority of the trail is made up of soft earth and sand.  On the decent you have the mountainside to the left of the trail and the drop-off to valley floor below on your right.  

 

We all have our own definition of difficult, but whatever the is for you, this hike is very challenging.  That said its a beautiful trail, great views and lots of opportunities for great photos, and thats even before you get to the water fall.  The trail is very easy to track with posted signs along the way indicating distance traveled and the distance to the waterfall below.

 

 Once you reach the valley floor at about the 2 mile mark or so signs will navigate you left towards the waterfall.     The vegetation changes here and becomes denser with California Scub Oak and low-lying brush.  Beware of Poison Oak which are those deep red leaves growing from the low lying plant, bush.   

 

As the trail down in th Valley has flattend out for you, you will approach a canopy of tress and brush to invite you in and on your way towards the falls.  You will come across a river bed of rock which help you navigate you across a creek.  

The next “obstacle” on the trail is a few climbs over boulders rocks and up to a spot where you soon see splashing water, the sounds of people jumping and swimming and if there is water running in the falls, the sounds of the falls themselves crashing down to the rocks and “watering hole” area below.  On this day there was only a trickle of water running down the falls, but plenty in the pool below. 

 

Once you are done enjoying the falls, replenishing your water and fuel, it will be time to return and the ascent back.  Take your time, ascending is a one step at a time process. Keep hydrating, break with snacks along the wy and soon you will have hiked out the 2.75 miles out and back to your car at the trailhead.  

 

As Always hike with a partner, know your limits, know your partners limits, take more than you need water

and know your trail route, use a map and or compasss if you must. 

Hike On!

Double Peak Trail San Marcos, CA 03/04/2018 Hiker Therapy

Distance:  4.6 mi   Hike Time: 1:15pm to 3:45pm  Steps: 9972  Elevation at peak: 1646′

Elevation Gain:  1000′ Water:  1.5 l  Snacks: Redd bar and hard boiled egg 

Hikeability: Moderate   Getting there: Take Highway 78 to San Marcos Boulevard. If coming from the coast, turn right. If from the 15, turn left. Turn left onto Bent Avenue, which will turn into Craven Road. Turn right onto Foxhall Drive, and then turn right into the Discovery Lake parking lot or park along the street.

Discovery Lake                            
Hiker Therapy

 

Double Peak Trail is one of my top 4 hikes in North County San Diego along with Lake Calavera Preserve, Oceanside, Daly Ranch, Escondio and Monserate Mountain Fallbrook, CA.  Double Peak offers a very clean trail, well marked, easy access, excellent trail conditions and the famous “Tree” at the peak which can be seen from miles around.

 

Double Peak Trail is part of the Discovery Lake Park system, which includes Discovery Lake and Discovery park.  Both of which offer a great family place to play, fish, picnic and hangout on a weekend day or any day for that matter.

Double Peak Trailhead
Hiker Therapy

The trailhead to Double Peak starts at Discovery Park and its beginning trail leads you right alongside Discovery Lake.  If you prefer you can start at the opposite or top end of the park and wind around the lake and join back up with the main trail up to the peak.

 

In fact the beginning part of the trail is a service road that leads up into a local neighborhood and then up a residential street which connects you to the “Real” trail. This beginning service road always is the most challenging part of the hike for me.

 

 Its a steep climb and its right when you start out, so be prepared for some “legburn” before the trail evens out and heads into the local neighborhood. The neighborhood road up is about 1/4-1/3 of a mile before you reconnect with the Double Peak Trail.

 

Urban Hike part
Hiker Therapy

At the top of the street, you cross over to the main trail.  Once on this part of the trail you are hiking on hard packed sand up most of the way to the peak.  As you wind up halfway to the peak the trail does turn to a rockier composition but then again returns to the hard packed sand trail composition.

 

 Soon you will climb high enough to start picking up good views of North County as well as California State University San Marcos to your east.  Much of this trail surrounding vegetation has been burned in recent years fires, but much of the brush, plant life and chaparral has grown back.

 

Trail spur left, steep trail in background, road up to Peak
Hiker Thera

As you continue to climb and at the 1.8 mile mark you will come to Double Peak Rd.  This is your final climb up as you stay left on the sidewalk.  At the 2 mile mark you will come to a trail spur that dips down to the left.

 This is an option that will get you to the peak, (of the three ways up I say this is the most challenging option) and well worth getting off the main trail.  This spur will take you to the opposite side of the Double Peak summit.  

Trail to Steep Sign
Hiker Therapy

You can also continue on to the “Steep Sign” marker, you can take this dirt trail up but beware its a leg burner and as the signed has warned us  its steep.  Most who ascend Double peak take the sidewalk along side Double Peak road up.

 

 But come on! This is a hike! and the more adventure and spice you can add to the hike the better  I usually go up the “Steep” trail sign way.  Although recently I have been going the trail spur to the left and the first of the 3 options that you come to.  

Double Peak Summit Tree Hiker Therapy

Either one of the three ways you will summit Double Peak and enjoy the 2.3 mile hike up and the views of the distance Palomar Mountains and on a clear day Mt. Baldy and the San Gabriel Mountains.  

 

To your immediate east you will see a pointed peak, thats Mt. Whitney, not “The” Mt Whitney. You will also come face to face with the Double Peak Tree!  Looking west the pacific Ocean and south the coastline of San Diego County.

Gorgeous View looking South East from Summit, parking lot adjacent
Hiker Therapy

Most of the people at the peak have driven up Double Peak road, so congratulate yourself on your hike up and enjoy a snack and the gorgeous 360 degree views.  There is a restroom at this peak that is well kept by the local park ranger.

 

 

Me at the Summit Peak
Hiker Therapy

Double Peak is one of my go to local hikes and one that provides a good challenge, a nice sense of nature even though you are hiking through a suburban neighborhood some of the way.

 

A good sense of accomplishment and at roughly 4.6 miles a good enough challenge to make you think you’ve gotten a good workout, which you have, as most times a few hours after I get back home my legs will attest to.

 

As always, hike with a friend, respect your limits, respect your friends limits, take more water than you need, a snack and remember its not a race, enjoy each foot step along the trail 

Hike On!  

 

Iron Mountain, Poway, CA Feb., 17, 2018 Hiker Therapy

DISTANCE: 6.2 miles: Steps: 13.5K ELEVATION GAIN: 1000′ Elevation at Peak: 1615′ HIKEABILITY: scale 0-10, 6 ( not as difficult as Woodson, more challenging than Cowles.) WATER: 2 liters SNACKS: energy bar, orange. CONDITIONS: temperature 70’s, slight breeze.  Hike Time: 11:15am to 3:30PM RESTROOMS: at trail head PARKING:  lot at trailhead, if full park on Hwy., 67

Iron Mountain Trailhead Poway, CA Hiker Therapy

Iron Mountain “Canopy”
Hiker Therapy

I have hiked Iron Mountain in Poway at least a dozen times, however each time is a unique experience always full of adventure, challenge beauty and accomplishment. On this day I arrived at 1115AM and the main parking lot off of Poway Rd. and Hwy. 67 was full. Not to worry, overflow parking is available on Hwy., 67 which is where I parked, a short walk will get you to trailhead and or restrooms. Direction to Iron Mountain, which is located at the T section of Poway rd., and Why 67 in Poway  You know you are at the “official” Trailhead as soon as you see the mainstay IRON MOUNTAIN arch signifying your journey up to the peak of Iron. The hike from this point is about 3.1 miles to the summit. However, for me the welcoming canopy of trees covering the trail is the “Official” trail start that sets the tone and the journey to the peak.    

 

Iron Mountain Peak..side spur off of main trail at .5 mile mark from trailhead start
Hiker Therapy

The trail at Iron at the start is smooth, hard packed sand and for about the next .50 miles is such. At the .50 mark or so, you have 2 options to continue your hike. You can go right at the trail marker or continue on the traditional way as most do hiking Iron. I always break off and go right here. This segment of the trail offers you diversity of trail, it is less traveled, much quieter and full of nature and a more “green” approach to Iron. You also get a great view of the peak along this spur of the trail. This spur continues on for about .75 miles and then joins up with the main trail up to the peak. Thats the beauty of hiking Iron, you cannot get lost here, follow the well marked trail 3.1 miles you will summit this very doable and popular San Diego Hiking Trail.

As this spur comes to an end you will join up with the main trail and  be introduced to a much more rocky trail and for the rest of your journey up the trail will alternate between hard packed sand and earth and rocks. Twisted ankles are not uncommon here, take your time, be safe, the peak isn’t going anywhere you will get there when you do. 

Iron Mountain Trail is alternating mix of hard packed earth and sand or Rocks Hiker Therapy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.75 mile mark and the Iron Mountain Trail System Direction Board
Hiker Therapy

As you get to the 1.75 mile mark of the hike you will come to the “Trail Direction Board” which will point you to go right to the Iron Mountain Peak. Going left gets you back to the trailhead start to the Ellie Lane, which adds 3.3 miles to this hike but if you get the chance one day I highly suggest this as your trailhead start. As you continue right you will start more of the ascent portion of hiking Iron. The trail here gets back to a sandy composition but soon will get rockier as you ascend up to the top. after a short while you will come to the HeloPad that serves as a rescue site for those who have met the fate of the trail and ended up with a broken bone, or more sever health problem. Any hike can serve as a danger, precautions aside, accidents do happen.

 

 

 

Look very close to see White Cross
Hiker Therapy

As you approach the last segment of this hike, to your last the views are spectacular of the far distance Palomar Mountains, Julian and Mt Gower Ramona. Pay close attention to detail as you stop and gaze east. You will see the White Cross tucked into a mountainside. I always love seeing this cross which offers me a sense of familiarity and comfort Continue up and the trail starts to steepen, never to the point of exhaustion, but enough that offers challenge and reward. The Summit of Iron is “Sneaky” after a series of switchback segments to the trail, the last 100 years winds around and up and then, there you are, you have made it to the summit of Iron Mountain. 

 

 

 

Summit of Iron Mountain Hiker Therapy

The false peak offers the marker of arrival and from previous a Journal Box where you could stake your claim to summiting Iron by writing into the peak journal. The last few times I’ve been on the top, the journal box has been gone. To your right your will come to the first picnic table continue on to the left past the second picnic table and you will hit the ‘official” summit. From here you have a great view of Ramona, Julian, Palomar Mountains and the sapphire blue waters of Lake Ramona.
Enjoy the peak, eat a snack and take pictures, the views go on forever. On your way back look over to your north a short distance and you will see Iron’s sister peak of Mt Woodson another very popular San Diego Hike and the tallest Poway Peak, Iron is the second tallest peak at just over 1600’ . I believe Iron is on the 100 peaks list and falls under peaks to bag for the 52 Peak Challenge.

 

 

 

 

We are so fortunate to have the hiking trails that we have here in San Diego County. Iron was one of the first “Hard Hikes” or challenging Peaks I attempted back in 2012 and at the beginning of my Hiking Career. Now I call Iron one of my go to Hikes and one that never disappoints.

Weather wise, Fall through Spring is Hiking season in San Diego, in a few months the heat out in Poway can get up into the 90’s, which makes Iron, as well as any hike, much more of a challenge and safety risk.  Always bring more water than you need, I always start with 2l and go from there depending on heat, hike with a partner, respect your hiking limits, respect your partners hiking limits and most important Hike on!

 

 

Food Tip:  After you Hike in Poway I highly recommend The Stable Fresh Fruit and Smoothie Shop on Twin peaks and Espola rd. The best fresh smoothies and date shakes in the County!  

  Iron Mountain Photo Gallery