Sitting in the Pine Creek Wilderness in east San Diego, stands Corte Madera, or as some refer to it, San Diego’s Half Dome. This peak offers some impressive views of Baja California, Los Pinos, Anza Borrego, Mount Laguna, and Cuyamaca State Park. This challenging trail has some stunning vistas as it climbs toward the summit. […]
Hiking to High Point on Palomar Mountain in the Cleveland National Forest
Appropriately named High Point is the highest peak in the Palomar Ranger District of Cleveland National Forest. This hike offers unique views of Toro and San Jacinto Peak, and a colorful variety of trees that isn’t often found in Southern California. Getting to the Trailhead Take Interstate 15 toward Temecula and exit at Highway 79 […]
Hiking Volcan Mountain
The Volcan Mountains are a relatively small range about 13 miles long and 7.5 miles wide. Located east of San Diego, near the town of Julian, this hike up Volcan Mountain gives you a perfect excuse for a weekend trip rewarded with a slice of Julian apple pie. The out-and-back double-track trail has and entrance […]
Blue Jay to Los Piños Peak
Los Piños Peak sits at 4,455 feet above sea level in the Cleveland National Forest, just west of the Main Divide between Orange and Riverside Counties. There are other more strenuous routes to this summit, but this route is made easier because you start at over 3,000 feet. Instead of approaching from Orange County, you […]
Beek’s Place via Black Star Canyon
Mysterious ruins in a canyon that used to be home to grizzly bears? In Orange County? Yes, and getting there is a heckuva hike. This strenuous, 15 mile out-and-back trail up Black Star Canyon has several highlights, including a great views, a beautiful waterfall (in season), and the remains of Beek’s Place — a weekend […]