Today’s hike was through a section of San Pasqual Valley up to Raptor Ridge and back. This would be my second hike of the 2020-2021 Coast to Crest Challenge. I again arrived at the trailhead just before sunrise to beat the predicted heat.
The trail headed west along the south side of San Pasqual Valley. The air was nice and crisp as I cruised along, as the sun had not yet risen over the hills behind me. After about 1.5 miles I reached the base of the hill and began working my way up. A runner passed me, surrounded by her four dogs.
The sun began to spread its rays across the valley and the surrounding hills, making for some lovely views. I reached the “selfie spot” and took my photo. I rested for on the picnic bench for a few minutes before heading back down. As I worked my way back to the car, I encountered two more folks using the trail.
I am an avid peak bagger, sometimes backpacker, and former sea kayaker living in San Diego. In 2019, I became the third person to complete the San Diego 100 Peak Challenge. Not stopping with that accomplishment, I set my sights on the harder San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list, which I completed in 2021. In addition, I have conquered several Six-Pack of Peaks challenges (SoCal, San Diego, Central Coast, and Arizona-Winter). Beyond attempting the San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list a second time, I am looking forward to exploring new summits and new adventures across the southwest.