Sheri McGregor - San Diego. San Diego

This book is meant only as a guide to select trails in the San Diego area and does not guarantee hiker safety in any wayyou hike at your own risk. Neither Menasha Ridge Press nor Sheri McGregor is liable for property loss or damage, personal injury, or death that result in any way from accessing or hiking the trails described in the following pages. Please be aware that hikers have been injured in the San Diego area. Be especially cautious when walking on or near boulders, steep inclines, and drop-offs, and do not attempt to explore terrain that may be beyond your abilities. To help ensure an uneventful hike, please read carefully the introduction to this book, and perhaps get further safety information and guidance from other sources. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the areas you intend to visit before venturing out. Ask questions, and prepare for the unforeseen. Familiarize yourself with current weather reports, maps of the area you intend to visit, and any relevant park regulations.

Copyright 2009 Sheri McGregor

All rights reserved

Printed in the United States of America

Published by Menasha Ridge Press

Distributed by Publishers Group West

First edition, first printing

ISBN 978-0-89732-722-0

Cover by Scott McGrew

Cover photo by Sheri McGregor

Text design by Annie Long

Maps by Sheri McGregor, Scott McGrew, and Steve Jones

All interior photos by Sheri McGregor

Menasha Ridge Press

P.O. Box 43673

Birmingham, AL 35243

www.menasharidge.com

Authors Note

Sheri McGregor

These easy hikes from my published collection (plus new hikes) provide detailed opportunities for novice hikers to start enjoying the local outdoors. So many readers tell me they are tired of boring treadmills and high-priced gym memberships. Get outside where the hush of the breeze lulls you, the birds cheer you on, and beautiful views await.

In nature, we experience sounds and images that capture our attention involuntarily and relax us. This makes the natural world a wonderful respite. The calm that comes from spending time in nature is also associated with improved memory, increased attention span, and positive benefits for people who are stressed. It has long been known that just viewing natural images and sounds decreases healing time.

Ive hiked among the trees and observed wildlife and the changing seasons here in San Diego my whole life. Feeling my feet connect to Mother Earth with every step has always brought me joy. I hope that you, too, find the natural areas of these easy hikes will soothe your stress, allow you to clear your head, and get physically fit. Enjoy these easy San Diego trails with family and friends for peaceful bonding time. When youre ready for more advanced hikes, my books, 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: San Diego, and Day & Overnight Hikes: Anza Borrego Desert State Park, will be there to guide you.

Please visit my Web site ( www.SanDiegoHikes.com ), and send me a note about your hiking experiences. I love to hear from readers and fellow hikers.

Introduction

Welcome to Easy Hikes Close to Home: San Diego. This title in the Easy Hikes series is organized according to three regions: Coast; Mountains; and Inland.

defines symbols for parking, restrooms, trail features, and other details. Armed with this handy guidebook, you can quickly head out the door and, well, take a hike!

OVERVIEW

Mileage shown for each hike corresponds to the total distance from start to finish, for loops, out-and-backs, figure eights, or a combination of shapes. You can shorten or extend some of them with connecting trails.

HIKING ESSENTIALS

Boots should be your footwear of choice. Sport sandals are popular, but they leave much of your foot exposed and vulnerable to hazardous plants, thorns, rocks, and sharp twigs.

When it comes to water, err on the side of excess. Hydrate prior to your hike, carry (and drink) six ounces of water for every mile you plan to hike, and hydrate after the hike. Pack along a couple of small bottles of water even for short hikes. You may decide to linger on the trail, or take an alternate route and extend your time outdoors.

Always plan for unpredictable scenarios by carrying these items, in addition to water:

Map

Compass

Basic first-aid supplies, such as Band-Aids and aspirin

Knife

Windproof matches or a lighter and fire starter

Snacks

Flashlight with extra batteries

Rain protection and a sweater or windbreaker, even in warm weather

Sun protection

Insect repellent

Whistle

GENERAL TIPS

The whole point of your outing is to enjoy nature, fresh air, and exercise. Here are a few tips to enhance your excursion: