The Kalalau Trail traverses the famous Napali coast of Kauai. This spectacular coastline first become widely known after being featured in the Jurassic Park movies and has since become one of the hottest attractions in all of Kauai. You can hike it, backpack it, kayak it, ride a boat past it, and ride on a …
Volcan Mountain
Volcan Mountain is a prominent, rolling, oak-studded peak just north of Julian. Its rolling flanks are covered with wildflowers in spring, and its trees turn gold in the fall. The peak also features a great mixture of views, with Anza-Borrego to the east and the San Diego coastline to the west.Distance: 5.2Elevation Gained: 1,200Difficulty: Moderately …
Cuyamaca Peak
Standing at 6,512', Cuyamaca Peak is the second tallest peak in San Diego County. It also stands roughly in the geographic center of San Diego County, which means that the views in all directions are inclusive and spectacular. While most of its forest has been destroyed, a large patch close to the summit still persists, …
Lake Cuyamaca
Lake Cuyamaca is a man-made lake that collects all of the water run-off on the north side of Cuyamaca State Park. This serene, picturesque lake is stocked with trout for the fishermen, boat docks for the recreators, and hiking trails for those who like to amble. Views of the surrounding mountains are abundant, as are …
Stonewall Peak
Stonewall Peak is a prominent bump rising up out of the rolling valleys and meadows of the Cuyamaca Area. This craggy promontory displays attractive granite outcrops, good views, and fine examples of post-Cedar fire recovery along its steep flanks.Distance: 8.7 MilesElevation Gained: 800'Difficulty: Moderately StrenuousTime: 4:00Critters: DeerGet there like this. Note: There is an $8 day fee …
Santa Margarita River
The Santa Margarita River is a rare and relatively undisturbed watercourse that drains the Santa Ana Mountains. Large sections of this river are protected habitats, and it flows roughly the same way that it has for the last few thousands of years before Southern California was developed. It features a rich riparian environment, as well …
Caspers Wilderness Park: Bell Canyon
Caspers Wilderness Park contains one of the last wilderness areas in close proximity to sprawling Orange County suburbs. The park reserves two major watercourses - Bell Canyon and San Juan Creek - as well as featuring the usual chaparral-covered hills and mountain vistas. Bell Canyon is a particularly lovely hike dominated by oak and sycamore …
Grand Canyon, Day 1: River Trail
The river trail is a brief loop starting from Bright Angel Campground that incorporates both bridges, as well as a trail segment carved into the cliffs on the south side of the river. This is a great way to cool down after a long trek down from the rim, and it gives you a chance …
Grand Canyon, Day 1: South Kaibab Trail
The South Kaibab Trail follows a ridgeline from the south rim of the Grand Canyon all the way down to the Colorado River, where it terminates at Bright Angel Campground. Along the way, one can see views that give a sense of the vast space of the canyon, while introducing one to the ever-changing rock …
Palomar Mountain, March Edition
Palomar Mountain is, like, cool, and stuff. OMGWTFROFLMAO!Distance: 8.2Elevation Gained: 1,250'Time: 5:00Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous (due to carrying a full pack).Get there like this.Note: There is an $8 fee to visit this state park.At this point, I feel like I have written and talked about Palomar Mountain so much that I feel like I am all …