Saturday, November 30, 2019

Favorite San Diego Hikes


I have been hiking in San Diego county since we moved here in 2001.  Although there are still some large areas I haven't explored yet (mainly south of interstate 8), I have put together my current list of the top hikes.
  • Mt. Gower – tough up and down hike with some really steep sections but the views are worth it.
  • Wilson Peak – some of the best views of Anza-Borrego.  You can start up at the bottom for a long or shorten it by driving up the ridge.
  • Manchester Preserve – my backyard hike is great short track.
  • Bernardo Mountain – can be crowded but great views from the peak.
  • Piedras Pintadas – do the entire hike out to the interpretive loop.
  • Eagle Rock – I prefer the southern approach out-and-back hike.
  • Blue Angel Peak – lots of rocks on this remote desert hike.  Be sure to find Smuggler's Cave.
  • Bayside Trail – Cabrillo National Monument gets thousands of visitors a year but few of them do this trail with awesome bay views.
  • Oakzanita Peak/Stonewall Peak – two great peaks with Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.  Oakzanita is harder but has better views to the west.  Stonewall is easier but is well worth it.
  • Viejas Mountain - tough uphill but the 360 degree views are spectacular.

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