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    Stonewall Peak Trail

    4.7 (100 reviews)

    Stonewall Peak Trail Photos

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    Marcie L.

    This was an awesome hike. You'll start by pulling into Paso Picacho Campground, where there's a $10 fee for a day-use parking pass. From there, just cross the street to begin the trail. The trail starts with a bit of an incline, but quickly levels out and feels mostly flat for a good portion of the hike. It's not very well marked, so we did stray off the path a couple of times, though never for more than 15 seconds before realizing it. Having AllTrails open was a big help. The incline section is about 2 miles and takes roughly 50 minutes. The full hike is around 4 miles total and took us under two hours. At the summit, you'll find large boulders and a cool metal railing with steps to help you reach the top. The view is absolutely worth it. We started at 8:30 AM and didn't see anyone else on the trail until the way down, when we passed a few groups. There's a sign at the entrance warning about mountain lions, so it's a good idea to hike with a buddy. Cell service is spotty, so be sure to load your AllTrails map ahead of time.

    Stairways on the top
    Channary V.

    It was such beautiful hike. The view was amazing with 360° on the top of the maintain, where the stairs lead us. It was a beautiful 360 Viewpoint for sure. I could spot our parking site in the campground from the top as well (attached photo). It was such a worth it hike despite all the challenge with snow and elevations. I assumed it was just a normal, moderate level of height, but obviously the snow was still melting. When we get halfway up, lucky our hiking boots was waterproof, what I've been ended up with walking in, so it sounds like many other hikers we met. Highly recommend going early as it took us 2 hours to get to the top and 1.5 hours to get back down, too do need to rest and snack to refuel as well as take photos of the views. So I suggest time yourself right, especially if you're a big group, to avoid coming down after sunset, as it's still very cold on the mountain. NOTE- parking is inside the campground on the opposite of the trailhead. We also picnicked at the campsite picnic are as we already paid for the parking. It was a very peaceful picnic!

    Stephanie G.

    If you aren't parking on the side of the road I would say pay the ten dollars and park in the campsite across the way, the hike is worth it. Wear comfortable shoes with ankle support and bring water and sunblock, but there are lots of trees for shade along the way. There is a steep start but after that just a gradual climb and views all the way up. The stairs along the rocks towards the end are a nice touch to help folks scramble up a bit for a better view. Cool hike definitely on anyone's level !

    Salton Sea
    Dub M.

    Beautiful. Got there early- nobody on the trail until 12 (Monday). Easy hike, safe and wide trail. A great alternative to Cowells for SD peeps. I could see the Salton Sea 53 miles away. I was thinking I may be able to see the pacific but there was cloud cover in that direction.

    November 2023: moderate wind conditions at peak, 40 degrees F
    Lily T.

    HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 1. Easy/moderate hike with moderate incline. 2. 90% shaded hiking trail. 3. Tennis shoes OK, but hiking shoes or shoes with great grip preferred because there are loose gravel during the last 5 minutes incline before reaching the peak. 4. 2 miles in & 2 miles out (roughly 2 hours total (round trip)). 5. Safe for kids 5 years + and elderly, in my opinion. 6. $10 parking at camp grounds across the street (start of trail head). 7. Temperature: mid 40 degrees fahrenheit (Nov 25th, 2023) with minimal wind. Moderate winds at the peak only. Long pants and long sleeves/jacket recommended if hiking at this time during the year.

    View from the Top.
    Nicholas G.

    This hike has a rewarding 360 degree view at the end! Parking across the street (Paso Picacho Campground) in the lot is $10, which you pay at the booth when you enter. There's a slip that you take that you write down your info and a slot to put part of it with the $10. There's plenty of parking, picnic tables, and 2 restrooms available for your use. From the parking lot you immediately cross the street to the beginning of the trail. It's a very easy trail to navigate, and it's not steep at all. It's narrow but wide enough so that traffic going both ways can go past each other. I went last Sunday during the morning hours (we started around 7:30AM) and there was quite a bit of foot traffic on our descent. Heading up the trail, closer to the top, you'll reach a large area with huge rocks. Just follow the trail to the left and you'll reach the stairs to ascend to the peak. At the very top you'll get a nice, 360 degree view of the area. The space is small up there (on the peak) so make good use of the time you got up there before the crowds start flocking in. This was our second time doing this hike, and it was just as fun as the first. Since it's near winter it was extremely windy and cold at the top, but it was manageable. We took out the Jetboil and made Cup Noodles and hung out on one of the rocks below the peak. I highly recommend this hike!

    View from the street
    Nyssa B.

    PSA!!! You have to park at Paso Picacho Campground which is right across from the start of the hike, it does cost $10 and there is no parking allowed on the side of the road. The trail is moderate, hike is pretty well marked for the most part there is some areas where your like "where the heck do I go?" lol. There was a few younger children that made it to the top so if you plan on bringing any younger children it is doable. Definitely my favorite hike to do while in the area. I would definitely recommend if it's your first time doing it the views at the top are worth the hike up!!

    View
    Mirna E.

    This was such a nice, short hike with pretty breathtaking views from the top! I can't believe how close this was to home. The hike is worth it and a definite must do! It is a short hike so if you're looking for a challenge there is a loop trail across the street you can add on to get some extra mileage. You do have to pay for parking in the day use portion of the campground ($10 I believe). There are restrooms and picnic tables but I regret not taking my lunch with me on the hike and enjoying it from the top.

    Partially shaded trail
    Crisha O.

    Heavily trafficked, yet beautiful trail along the 79 Hwy. A moderate hike that is ~4 miles round trip with elevation gains and rocky inclines. Lots of shade, but bright/sunny at parts. Wear sturdy hiking boots and layers if needed. Be prepared to share the trail and viewpoint! - Parking is directly across the street at Paso Picacho Campground for $10. You can pay through your phone using the signs posted in the lot or pay cash at the booth. - Trail is clean and pretty straightforward. - The last 100ft is a scramble up some big rocks and a precarious incline on rock guided only by a metal safety railing. There was a line to wait for the metal scaffolding-type lookout, but the 360 views were unbeatable. Solid hike with spectacular views! Just wished it wasn't so popular :)

    Nick S.

    This is an excellently maintained trail that would be great for catching a sunset. 2 miles (one way) of easy incline. It would be very difficult to get lost here as the trail is so well marked. - Parking is located at the campground across the street from the trail. It cost $10. - There are restrooms located in the parking lot/camp ground. - I would recommend bringing a flashlight if you plan to stay after sunset. - Bring at least a bottle of water, especially if it's hot. - Pack a lunch or food to grill after the hike, you've paid $10 already you might as well use some of the amenities.

    Jonathan L.

    Excellent hike. Only about 45 minutes or so from San Diego. Parking cost like $10. Views are excellent up on the top. You get 360 views from around. Excellent, short hike around SD. Pretty trees and pretty views. You can see some snow up there during the winter season.

    Amazing view at the top!
    Shawnee B.

    I'm not a hiker or outdoorsy girl to say the least but I did really enjoy this hike! I have a hard time with incline and as soon as you start there is a slight incline to the right then to the left that had me worried. Honestly, it was the hardest part. Everything else was smooth sailing. There's a lot of trees the whole way so your not straight up in the sun the whole time which was a huge plus. The view at the top is truly unreal and very worth it!

    Caroleann B.

    Last year from the campground, I was swinging in my hammock looking at Stonewall Peak thinking how gorgeous the wall looked and that the views must be spectacular at the peak. Time wise, a hike didn't work with my schedule. This year I hiked to Stonewall Peak and enjoyed every step to the top. Driving out here it was overcast so I thought it will be a comfortable hike, but because of the elevation the closer I got I could see the sun peeking through the clouds. It was a warm hike, but the wind helped keep it cool at times. I parked at the campgrounds for a $10 fee, well worth it for me. The ranger gave me a map and information on the area. There are other levels of hiking in the area so be sure to check out what works for you. I found Stonewall Peak trail to be easy, but I could see it to be moderate or even difficult for some. There are crevasses, sandy ground, rocks of all sizes and obstacles such as high stepping areas and lifting yourself on a couple of large rocks. Don't let my description frighten you! If you have trekking poles or a hiking partner this trek could easily be accomplished. You will be glad you did it. It took me awhile to reach the peak because I made sure to stop and enjoy the views as well as taking many photos. It took me over an 11/2 hours. There are some shade areas along the hike. To my surprise I didn't see much wild life as I thought I would being out in the open. I couldn't capture a shot of the healthy lizards that hurried along as I approached their space. I had a chance to see a couple of beautiful butterflies, hear a lot of chirping birds and buzzing bees. As you are just about to reach the area to climb the peak, I somehow couldn''t figure out where or which trail led to the top. Some hikers sunning on the boulders were kind enough to point out the direction. I'm sure I would have figured it out if there was no one to ask. The steps leading to the peak are railed. Be sure to stop, turn and soak in the views as you make your way up. When you reach the peak you will see that it is a not a very big space so I'm sure it could get quite crowded on a busy day. They have a few kiosks with information. Oh, I saw a few turkey vultures while at the top. They were taking advantage of the winds that blew that day. They soared in the beauty of nature, I was jealous... but I did enjoy the beauty nonetheless. A must do hike! If you do park at the campgrounds for $10 they have a picnic area you could enjoy a bite before or after. So pack a picnic and plan for a beautiful hike.

    View to NW of lake

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    Fun trail that isn't too difficult. Very family friendly and has a good viewpoint at the top that is very small.

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    Review Highlights - Stonewall Peak Trail

    The only spots you can use are inside the Paso Picacho campground which day use fees will set you back 8 dollars.

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    Merigan Trail

    Merigan Trail

    4.7(3 reviews)
    7.2 mi

    An outstanding "under the radar" waterfall hike is right here in Descanso. The Merigan Trail (aka…read morethe Merigan Fire Road) is closer than you think at just five minutes off the 8 freeway. Once at the trailhead, you will start your hike through an open meadow, passing some shady oak groves then finishing with waterfalls crashing on large boulders. I was introduced to this gem when I was at sixth grade camp, at Camp Oliver. I knew the Merigan Trail was great even then, but now I can truly appreciate how this area was left untouched after all these years. If it is your first time here, you will be back. FYI..there was still snow on the ground when we went in early January. There is no official address, but the place is right off Viejas Boulevard at Mitzpah Lane. Since it is part of the Cuyamaca State Park, they have their own signs, dirt parking lot, port-a-potties and the "honor system" check in station. I guess they ask for an 8 dollar fee to park. From the parking lot, walk to the trail head going left that passes right in front of a ranger's cabin. You can't miss the trail, since it is wide enough to drive a truck through. Stay on the trail and you will pass through a meadow, then an oak grove, this will then turn into a few mild inclines on the trail that will eventually lead you to a fork in the trail. At the fork, you will see a sign with the option to go to the "Dead Horse Trail" or stay on the "Merigan Fire Road." I always take the Dead Horse Trail, and go left at the fork in the trail to get to the waterfalls. The hike to the waterfall takes about 30-40 minutes for the average hiker with a few stops to admire the scenery. On a scale of 1-10 for difficulty, I would rate it at a 3. There are some inclines, but nothing too bad. Remember, my entire 6th grade class made the hike. Although I love Mission Trails and Cowles Mountain as much as the next hiker...those spots are flooded with way too many bodies. Just when you think you hear a coyote or deer up ahead, it always ends up being another hiker. Kind of a buzz kill. The Merigan Trail has always been the opposite of that experience for me.

    We did this hike based on the review above. There's something about the adventure of trying to…read morefind a waterfall based on one yelp review that sounded fun. It's pretty much just as the above review describes. Drive east on I-8 two exits past the Viejas outlets to Japatul rd and make a left. Make a left at hwy 79 and then an immediate left on Viejas Blvd. Look for Mitzpah rd and park in the dirt lot. Parking is $8. The hike to the waterfall is about 30 minutes. Take the fireroad and make a left at the fork down towards Dead Horse Trail. You will start to hear water. The falls aren't big and majestic, but it's quiet and uncrowded. We had 4 kids with us ranging from age 6 - 9 and they all had a good time.

    Photos
    Merigan Trail - Boulder moss thing.

    Boulder moss thing.

    Merigan Trail - 3 Year old and Daddy wading in the swimming hole

    3 Year old and Daddy wading in the swimming hole

    Merigan Trail - Snow was still in the shady parts of the trail.

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    Snow was still in the shady parts of the trail.

    Secret Canyon Trail - Wildflowers in January!

    Secret Canyon Trail

    4.5(6 reviews)
    15.8 mi

    Alltrails lists this as 'Horse thief Canyon', then I saw that I had this listing bookmarked on Yelp…read morefor sometime and noticed that they were the same thing! Distance: ~3.3mi., reverse out-and-back (you will be going uphill on the return trip) Difficulty: easy-intermediate-ish (~0.5mi ascent on your way out which can get the heart pumping!) Time: 1.5-2 hours Permit required?: No (according to permit site - https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5208699&width=full) Sights of Interest: Mini waterfall and pool Parking is in a big dirt lot just off of Japatul Lyons Valley Rd.. Turn in at Forest Rt 16S04. No bathrooms, so bring some T.P.! There are three gates as you approach - two smaller ones and a large one leading to a service road. Take the gate with a sign marking the 'Epinosa Trail to Secret Canyon Trail'. You'll end up on the service road either way. Continue on the service road until you see a sign off to the right that says 'Trail'. This is where you'll begin the descent into Horse thief Canyon. Eventually it evens out into a nice shady area alongside a stream. Lots of vegetation and growth everywhere, so make sure to *bring the bug spray*! There's a stream crossing after which you'll come upon the pool! Lots of great places to hang out on and relax on boulders. Water is pretty clean for swimming too. Awesome place to bring your dogs to cool off after the dusty trail. Just remember to pack your trash out if you plan on picnic-ing down at the pool! Most of your journey is on the Epinosa Trail and supposedly the Secret Canyon Trail is just beyond the pool, but the trail doesn't seem to continue anywhere beyond it. Great trail either way that experiences very little foot traffic so the area is very well preserved and wild! FYI, apparently this area experiences an influx of illegal immigrants and smugglers, but I think that was in earlier years. It was pretty safe when I went and I only had my dog in tow. But, I like to live life on the edge, so if you are wary come with a group!

    If you go during the week during normal business hours this trail is dead! It was our 2nd time here…read moreand there was only 1 car in the parking lot and we never even ran into the people. This is nice but also kind of scary especially since it's kind of in the middle of nowhere and you don't have great service but luckily I am alive today to write this review. The first time we went on this hike we missed the path and ended up just heading straight through on a dirt road so pay attention on your right hand side for a sign marked trail. This trail would have gotten more stars if it wasn't for the ridiculous amount of flies. I almost turned back because I couldn't stand them constantly flying in my face and in my ears. Maybe I am not an outdoorsy person if I cant handle that but it was hard to enjoy this hike when I was having to smack flies away the whole time. This is also one of those hikes that is fairly easy on the way down but tough on the way back because you have to go back up. I will say though that it was a really pretty hike and there is a creek at the bottom. We didn't go the whole way but did about a little over 3 miles of it. It's about a mile and a half to see the beginning of the creek. Maybe wearing bug spray might help with the flies?

    Photos
    Secret Canyon Trail - Trail is pretty well marked

    Trail is pretty well marked

    Secret Canyon Trail - Awesome sign.

    Awesome sign.

    Secret Canyon Trail

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    Descanso Wall Trailhead - BLUE MOON. Only road to Descanso Wall Trailhead. Image taken with my Google pixel pro using astrophotography. Unedited images

    Descanso Wall Trailhead

    5.0(1 review)
    8.7 mi

    UNDER THE BLUE MOON'S SPELL…read more Just like Nina Simone (jazz legen) Descanso Well Road in Alpine, CA put a spell on me. The location is nearer en route to Lake Cuyamaca campgrounds. I love experiences that words cannot describe, so perhaps I'll describe the Super Blue Moon Through a person's point of view. ASTRONOMER POV As an unofficial stargazer I was astonished to capture this event in my lifetime. PARENT POV As a parent, me and my kiddo made a pinky promise to meet at this location again when the Blue moon occurs in 2037. HIKER POV As a hiker that once got lost in the dark, I was thinking, " The moon is so illuminated. I can be brave on a hike right now." GOOGLE PIXEL-ER POV As a Google pixel-er, I was diving into the astrophotography features. All of the pics and vids were unedited and untouched. Taken by my Google Pixel Pro-7. I went to YouTube University. Maybe I need more course time. ASTROLOGER POV One shall release old aspects of darkness, sorrows, etc. and request the moon to illuminate it's full power to bring you whatever it is you desire. Ode to da moon. I was releasing like a windmill. Just in case it might be true. WHY WAS I AT THIS LOCATION? A friend suggested I try out this location because she watched the meteor shower. My go to is Anza Borrego. Easy to find. Asphalt road and restrooma are available. Even though the moon was illuminated, I dared NOT check out the restrooms in the dark. NEED TO KNOW 40 minutes east from downtown San Diego. There are a few homes in the road. Be respectful and responsible. Asphalt and well manicured road. Free parking available. Maybe 10 spots comfortably. And some alongside the road. Trail starts at the parking lot. I read it's only a mile trek. Must do in the Fall. My Blue Moon evening was 935 PM - 12115 AM. There was only one other car.

    Photos
    Descanso Wall Trailhead - BLUE MOON. Descanso Wall Trailhead bathrooms. Image taken with my Google pixel pro using astrophotography. Unedited images

    BLUE MOON. Descanso Wall Trailhead bathrooms. Image taken with my Google pixel pro using astrophotography. Unedited images

    Descanso Wall Trailhead - BLUE MOON. Descanso Wall Trailhead parking lot. Image taken with my Google pixel pro 7 using astrophotography. Unedited

    BLUE MOON. Descanso Wall Trailhead parking lot. Image taken with my Google pixel pro 7 using astrophotography. Unedited

    Descanso Wall Trailhead - Blue Moon. Image taken with my Google pixel pro using astrophotography. The moon was well illuminated. Unedited images

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    Blue Moon. Image taken with my Google pixel pro using astrophotography. The moon was well illuminated. Unedited images

    Cottonwood Creek - Swimming in the river, before it got very crowded

    Cottonwood Creek

    4.7(7 reviews)
    10.4 mi

    It's a great river swim with the family…read more However be very careful.. I feel in a whole in Sept 5th,2022 and twisted both ankles. Which I'm still suffering pain from Two month in my injury. My family had lots of fun( I didn't since I was in pain but since it was 2hr drive I suck it up for them). My toddler love it.. we went when LA hit over 100* heat... it very nice in the water!! Many ppl with floating I do suggest to make sure everyone know how to swim as its now drag ppl down the stream..

    I could see this being a 3 or 4 star hike depending on the season and weather conditions you do the…read morehike in. I hiked it on 2/24/19 and found the conditions to be ideal for my enjoyment! Location- it was only about a 30 minute drive for me since I spent the night after attending a party at a family member's house in El Cajon (suburb of San Diego); I jumped on the 8 East and as the elevation reached 3,000 ft I could begin seeing snow on the hills near the fwy and I got even more excited for this hike- took Exit 47 for Sunrise Hwy and the trailhead parking was about 2 miles away from the fwy and there was a large lot on the side of the hwy to park Trail- you access the trail by walking across the road and going to the right of the metal barrier...the snow was the deepest on this portion of the hike for about half a mile and the first part of the hike is where the trail is the narrowest with portions where you have to bend over and get low to continue past low branches; at about 3/4 of a mile you will get down to creek level and make a left to get to the waterfalls...I carefully climbed up to reach about 4 parts of the waterfall and it was flowing really well with all of the recent precipitation of this winter and it was a pleasant surprise to find this so close to the city of San Diego; it is about 2 miles RT and not anything too extreme in the way of incline and I loved having the trail/falls all to myself for the nearly 2 hrs I was there *I used microspikes just to be safe but I could see it being fine with just hiking shoes

    Photos
    Cottonwood Creek - Watching from the bank since I was injured I would walk my ankles were beyond swallowed...

    Watching from the bank since I was injured I would walk my ankles were beyond swallowed...

    Cottonwood Creek - Seeing the lake before getting to the river

    Seeing the lake before getting to the river

    Cottonwood Creek - Cows on our way to the river.. leaving LA behind us

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    Cows on our way to the river.. leaving LA behind us

    Viejas Mountain - The stone wind shelter at the summit; find the guestbook here!

    Viejas Mountain

    4.6(14 reviews)
    11.8 mi

    Native San Diegan, but never been here. From the start this trail is all incline, rocky, dirt, some…read morenative plants/shrubs and yucca but no shade. I saw no animals or even bugs... came December 2020. It's about 1.5 miles uphill with descent elevation and 2.5 down. I had to take a couple breaks due to the elevation I think...as I live near sea level and I'm fairly in shape, but more of a Hiit workout, sprints, weightlifting type, so endurance isn't my strong suite... but the top is worth the struggle. On a clear day you can see the ocean and such a beautiful sunset. Note the top is very windy and cold. I'd say it's great for moderate hiker, and I wouldn't bring a pet but I've seen dogs up there. Pros: - nature!! -free workout -some parking but limited - steep but not crazy difficult - more of a locals only location Cons: - rough dirt/rocky rode to get there -limited parking - no bathroom, trash or water stations

    Spectacular views at the summit especially when facing North. Easy to access from Tavern Rd exit on…read morethe I-8. It's about 3 miles RT on red-clay dirt and very loose rocks. Although Alltrails lists it as intermediate, I was breathless climbing this thing. I would describe it as intermediate-difficult. I mean, the doughnut holes in the morning probably didn't help and it was after Christmas Day indulgences, but the terrain was still very rocky and the incline was CONSTANT, making the ascent a little more difficult than normal. It was the ultimate thigh burner! A great workout! I took about 2 hours to finish, but did spend a lot of time at the top. Had the summit all to myself! Breath-taking! Parking is on a truck trail and the trail head is only marked by a simple metal gate. According to Afoot and Afield a **Wilderness Pass is technically required**, however I got away without one (didn't realize I needed one). Again, the terrain is quite rocky on the clay dirt ascent, so do not bring your kids! They'll likely fall flat on their faces trying to navigate over the rocks. As a note-- the truck road is a dirt one, but well graded with some humps every so often to prevent speeding. Parking near the trailhead is still quite secluded and a draw for thieves, so make sure to hide your belongings before you head out!

    Photos
    Viejas Mountain - The view from the peak!

    The view from the peak!

    Viejas Mountain
    Viejas Mountain - Yay!

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    Yay!

    Cedar Creek Falls - Cedar Creek Falls

    Cedar Creek Falls

    4.4(358 reviews)
    7.7 mi

    If you are a San Diego hiker and haven't done this hike- WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???…read more And for those of you who see these photos and think damn I need to go do that, please be aware of the temperature because it is dangerously hot down there at lower temperatures than in other areas. The hike goes down into a canyon and the heat settles down there. Even if it's not as hot as you think coming up can be extremely dangerous. Every year I hear about somebody dying from heat stroke on that hike so don't take it lightly. I always check the weather on the actual trail using the AllTrails app. I saw that the weather out there was max 65° that day and I was like hell yeah. The hike really isn't that difficult, 3 miles down and then 3 miles back up. Lots of nice switchbacks, and there are a few sun shelters for shade. The views are gorgeous all along the trail. I've done this hike, probably 20 times over the years. It's the best in the spring and in the fall. In the winter it's way too cold. The reward for this hike is the gorgeous rock bowl and waterfall that the locals call Devils Punchbowl. This past Thursday when we did this hike, there were a lot of young folks at the Punchbowl when we got there. Some of the guys were climbing up and jumping into the water. I would not recommend it, even if the waterfall is still flowing that water is not safe to swim in. In the fall, the waterfall doesn't flow anymore after being dried out over the brutal summer, but the trees at the bottom of the canyon turn a beautiful gold color. One of the few places in San Diego you can actually experience fall.

    Having lived in San Diego for so long, I honestly don't know why it took me this long to do this…read morehike. I finally got the permit online (definitely download it before you arrive since service can be spotty) and decided to go for it. I went in early May and started the trail around 8am, which turned out to be a great decision. The trail was practically empty at that time, and the downhill views were absolutely beautiful. I even saw two rattlesnakes before 9am, so definitely stay alert while hiking. At several points I had to remind myself I was still in San Diego and not somewhere in a huge national park. Once I got near the bottom, I did lose track of the trail a little and it was SOS, so having the AllTrails map downloaded beforehand was really helpful. It took me a little over an hour to reach the waterfall, and there were only two other people there at the time, which made it feel really peaceful and private. The water felt AMAZING after the hike down. There were so many fish in the water, and the whole area was honestly so pretty. By the time I started heading back around 10am, I noticed a lot more people arriving at the falls. The hike back up wasn't terrible, but the sun definitely makes it much harder on the return. I was very happy to make it back to the parking lot by around 11:30am. I would definitely bring lots of water, sunscreen, and some snacks.

    Photos
    Cedar Creek Falls - Cloud porn in the beginning of our hike!

    Cloud porn in the beginning of our hike!

    Cedar Creek Falls - Awesome day with one of my best girlfriends

    Awesome day with one of my best girlfriends

    Cedar Creek Falls - Morning frost

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    Morning frost

    Pacific Crest Trail At Penny Pines - Beauty that you will see on the Indian Creek trail loop in Mt Laguna

    Pacific Crest Trail At Penny Pines

    4.9(22 reviews)
    8.1 mi

    INDIAN CREEK LOOP REVIEW (8.8 miles)…read more Let's begin with 100% of hikes in Mt. Laguna or that includes the PCT will be an ethereal experience. Many say you can create, shape and mold reality. Others will say manifest and it will come. And then there are some that are just bah humbug. I always revel in God's imagination and creativity when he created these mountains. And then gave the gift of ingenuity to humans to work to create pathways and trails for us to enjoy and simply relish in gratitude and awe the entire hike. I'm a real hiker. Real backpacker. Real camper. And real glamping. I hike 2x a week for more than a decade. This is only to give you perspective of this review. This is my first time doing the full loop that included Pacific Crest Trail,Pine Mountain Road,Indian Creek Trail,and Noble Canyon Trail AKA "Indian Creek Loop." And today was wonky. Some parts were hard, some parts were easy, same parts were as if my body never has done hiking before. It was a doozy. I would likely do this hike again within the next couple of weeks. Because in my imagination, I'm an amazing hiker and that did not show today when I was struggling. I love taking photos and there was about an hour where I was trying to manage my breathing and focus and trek poles that I took no photos. Yep, I let the mountain win, smh. On this day, spectacular hike with alternating elevation, endless greenery, and blooming plants. Walking the legendary PCT, passing the "Canada" sign, and glimpsing Anza Borrego's desert floor was unforgettable. From rocky paths to meadows and mountain views, every turn offered something new. No one on the trail until the final half mile where bikers were on trail. I started at Piney Pines. Next time I'll go counterclockwise. GOOD TO KNOW *Att network excellent reception the entire trail *I felt safe as a solo hiker but I still get the quesies. I carry a few safety thins. Shhh. Don't tell *Hike time: 3 hrs, 3 minutes *90% exposed hike. *At the 4 mile marker, shade, benches and toilets. The toilets are unsanitary. I don't want to vomit and make it worse so I do my thing in nature. *When you start there's a point where you just have to finish *You can break this up to build up your mileage over time THIS HIKE IS NOT FOR: *Newbies, there's elevation involved *Whiners, complainers, or scaredy cats *Those who I have only done Cowles Mountain and think this is the next level "Life can be limited and you miss out. But create your own unlimitedness and you must do this hike."

    This review is for the Garnet Peak via Pacific Crest Trail which was a 4 mile round trip that took…read moreabout 2 hours to complete. The trail for the most part was easy to follow and completely exposed to the sun. A good portion of the trail was rocky which could make your foot a bit uncomfortable. There were also a few instances where you could go off trail for a bit to check out the desert views! Short video of the hike for those interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htU3_t3cDMI

    Photos
    Pacific Crest Trail At Penny Pines - Beauty that you will see on the Indian Creek trail loop in Mt Laguna Garnet Peak

    Beauty that you will see on the Indian Creek trail loop in Mt Laguna Garnet Peak

    Pacific Crest Trail At Penny Pines
    Pacific Crest Trail At Penny Pines

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    Stonewall Peak Trail - parks - Updated May 2026

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