With the predicted rain coming (yay!), I decided to get in a quick mid-day hike. I drove over to Elizabeth Rabbitt Park and set off down toward the Duck Pond. This is a popular route for mountain bikers, but on a Wednesday afternoon, I doubted I would see but one or two. Quickly, I found myself at the pond, and after a brief survey of it, I continued on down to Peñasquitos Canyon.
This route drops you almost directly at the waterfall. I circled around to the south side and took a few photos in the afternoon sun.
I continued westward through the canyon, passing several large pools that lined the trail. At times, the trail would split, with one path for horses and another for other users. I passed the Sycamore Crossing and continued until I reached the Side Hill Trail that I would use to climb out of the canyon and back onto the mesa. It did afford a nice view of the canyon from near the top of the trail.
Once back at the mesa, I followed the wide and well-groomed trail that follows the road. From time to time, dry vernal pools would line either side of the trail. If we get enough rain, this might be worth revisiting. Soon, I was back at my starting point, having logged 4.3 miles in just over 1:20.
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.