Every American should visit Mount Rushmore at least once to appreciate the sacrifices and contributions made by some of the great leaders that built America. This memorial is a great icon of the American history. Mount Rushmore is South Dakota’s main tourist attraction. You wonder why the state’s motto is “Great Faces, Great Places”? You can coincide your visit to this park with other parks such as Badlands National Park or Wind Cave National Park. The monument is located in western South Dakota just a short distance outside of Rapid City, the major town in that part of the state. THE PARK The park was named after Charles E. Rushmore, a New York attorney who did prospecting and land title investigations in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Before that time the mountain had no formal name although it was known as "Six Grandfathers", or “Cougar Mountain” to the Lakota Sioux. It was said that Rushmore was deeply impressed with the hills and asked the men who were with him for its name. One of them spoke up and said, “We will name it now, and name it Rushmore Peak.” The United States Board of Geographic Names officially recognized the name “Mount Rushmore” in June 1930. In 1923, Doane Robinson, the State Historian of South Dakota, known today as the “Father of Mount Rushmore”, initiated the idea of carving figures of famous Americans on the mountain in the Black Hills. This was to create a tourist attraction for visitors from around the world to South Dakota. Famous sculptor Gutzon Borglum, 57 years old, was contacted and agreed to undertake the project. Peter Norbeck, U.S. Senator from South Dakota, sponsored the project and secured federal funding. THE FOUR PRESIDENTS The original plan was to feature American western heroes, but Borglum believed that the sculpture needs broader appeal and recommended the four presidents we see today. They were chosen to represent the nation’s birth, growth, development and preservation, which were the most important aspects of American history. The monument commemorates four Presidents - George Washington (1st President), Thomas Jefferson (3rd President), Abraham Lincoln (16th President) and Theodore Roosevelt (26th President). Before you reach the main part of the park, you will see the a first view of the head of George Washington, one of the Founding Father of the United States. Today, the memorial attracts nearly three million tourists annually. The visitor center and related facilities that we see today were not part of the original construction - they were completed in 1998. It is a beautiful park with amphitheater, museum and ample parking (you have to pay for parking but admission to the monument is free). THE AVENUE OF FLAGS The Avenue of Flags, 56 in all, represents the 50 states, one district, three territories, and two commonwealths of the United States of America. The avenue was initially established as part of the celebration of the United States’ Bicentennial in 1976. The flags are arranged in alphabetical order with the names listed below each flag. THE CARVING The sculptures of the four presidents were carved on the side of the granite mountain by 400 people using dynamite and various excavation tools. To remove precise amounts of rock, 90% of the mountain was carved using dynamite, a very dangerous job for the workers but there were no fatalities. Each head measures 60 feet high. The work took place from October 1927 to October 1941. If you like to view the sculptures at night, there is a lighting program held from August 1 to Labor Day, from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. MUSEUM Visit the Lincoln Borglum Museum where a short film provides an introduction to the memorial every twenty minutes. There are also interactive exhibits and bookstore. Gutzon Borglum and James Lincoln Borglum At the park is a bust sculpture of Gutzon Borglum, son of Danish immigrants. Gutzon died days before his 74th birthday, on March 6, 1941, before the project was finished. But his son, Lincoln, who worked as his father's right hand man, continued his work until it was completed. Lincoln served as the first superintendent at Mount Rushmore from 1941 to 1943. One of Gutzon Borglum's many works was a colossal bust of Abraham Lincoln, carved out of a large block of marble. Today, you will find this bust in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Lincoln Borglum was named after his father's favorite president, Abraham Lincoln. He was a sculptor, photographer, author and engineer. One of his best-known works was a bust of his father, which is located outside the visitor center of Mt. Rushmore. He died of a heart attack in 1986 at age 74. PRESIDENTIAL TRAIL If you want to see different views of the four presidents, then take the Presidential Trail. It's an easy half-mile loop trail that meanders through pine trees. You will also pass by the rubble left behind from blasting and carving the mountain. Mt. Rushmore is largely composed of smooth fine-grained granite. The National Park Service is overseeing the ongoing conservation of the site, where wind, rain, snow erodes the rocks and frost wedging expands the cracks.

If you are visiting Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park in Utah, you might as well add Dead Horse Point State Park to your itinerary. This is one of Utah's state parks surely worth exploring, without exerting much effort to see some fantastic views. This state park is all about the vast high desert landscapes, as far as the eyes can see. The main attraction here is the Dead Horse Point, considered “one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world.” There are short walks to the overlooks, mostly paved and suitable for everyone, but be very cautious of the cliffs, especially if you have curious kids with you. Although there are no long trails for hard-core hikers in this park, there are several popular trails for mountain biking for all skill levels. THE PARK Dead Horse Point State Park is located next to Canyonlands National Park (the northern part, known as the Island in the Sky segment). San Juan County purchased the initial 628 acres of the point from the Bureau of Land Management and donated it to Utah State Parks and Recreations Commission in 1959. Today, it covers 5,362 acres. Dead Horse Point was recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016. If you are into stargazing, then this is one of the best places to stay. There are camping grounds, for tents or RVs, or you might want to experience glamping in a yurt, which can accommodate up to six people. We haven't stayed in one of those, but it's probably nice. While there, you can join an event such as a Sunset Talk, Full Moon Hike and Star Party. THE LEGEND Dead Horse Point has cliffs on all sides and only a narrow strip of land for access, about 30 yards wide. There are several legends how the park got its name, but one thing in common is how wild horses, or mustangs, that roamed the mesa were corralled at the point in the 1800s, by building a fence across the only access. One legend has it that horse thieves corralled the mustangs, then choose the ones they wanted and set free the unwanted ones. Another legend has it that ranchers purposely herded them in to the point to either starve them or drive them over the edge down to their death because mustangs competed with cattle for food and water. Another legend says that there was a conflict between the settlers and the Utes wherein which settlers rounded up all horses and ponies they could find to “keep the Native Americans from getting them”. But whatever the legend you believe, the story of these unfortunate wild horses left corralled at the point, accidental or not, all died of thirst. That’s how they said the park got its name, morbid as it seems to others. TO GET HERE Coming from Moab is about 32 miles. It's about a 40-minute drive to the park via U.S. Highway 191. then left on UT-313 West to Dead Horse Point OVERLOOKS (West Rim Trail) Big Horn Overlook Rim Overlook Shafer Canyon Overlook Meander Overlook Dead Horse Point (East Rim Trail) Basin Overlook Visitor Center Colorado River Overlook DEAD HORSE POINT OVERLOOK From this overlook, you will have a great view of Canyonland’s desert plateau, pinnacles and buttes. This fantastic view was created by millions of years of geologic activities. A gooseneck view of the Colorado River, 2000 feet below is an impressive sight. Looking down below, you will find how nature carved the gorge. You might want to do a river trip and see the canyon walls up close and personal. You have to do that from Moab. If you are staying in the park, the sunrise and sunset view at this overlook is an iconic event. The view to the east of the natural desert landscape is marred by the Potash Evaporation Ponds which in summer are dyed bright blue to help absorb more sunlight and heat. This helps the potash (Potassium chloride) to crystallize faster which can be processed for fertilizer.

Capitol Reef National Park is easily bypassed by visitors due to the most popular national parks in Utah nearby - Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park and Arches National Park - which attract the majority of visitors. We stopped here on our way from Colorado to go hiking in Bryce Canyon and Zion. Compared to those two parks, Capitol Reef is not overcrowded with visitors, but it has its own beauty that you would want to discover. The park can boast of its beautiful landscapes that will make you wonder in awe of the power of wind, water and erosion. Needless to say, the geology of the place is very impressive. You need to see the place with your own eyes to appreciate fully what the park has to offer. THE PARK Located in south-central Utah, the park was named after the series of white domes and cliffs of Navajo Sandstone that are said to resemble the dome of the U.S. Capitol. Capitol Reef was once home of the Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan native tribes, from about 300 to 1300 CE. Evidence of these peoples are petroglyphs and pictographs found throughout the park. Then the Mormon pioneers settled in the valley in the 1870s, in the area called Fruita today. They cultivated the land with orchards, some of which still exist today. You can even pick your own during harvest season. The early explorers in the area were led by John C. Fremont in 1853 and John Wesley Powell in 1869. In 1937 President Franklin D. Roosevelt set aside 37,711 acres as Capitol Reef National Monument, but it was not officially opened to the public until 1950. It was established in 1971 as a national park, signed by President Richard Nixon. Capitol Reef National Park is located along what was once the edge of an ancient shallow sea. The reef, traditionally defined as a rocky barrier to travel, has prevented easy access for years until the current State Highway 24 was constructed in 1962. The park is long and narrow, approximately 60 miles long and 6 miles wide on average. The most scenic section is the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic landform that extends nearly 100 miles long from north to south from the towns of Wayne through Garfield, preserved within the park. There are miles of hiking trails and horseback riding in the park. There is a campground near the Visitor Center with amenities, but for more adventurous folks, backpackers or climbers, there are two primitive campgrounds located in the remote parts of the park. These are free with pit toilets, but there is no water available. For stargazers, the park is designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2015. The area is mostly arid desert and the best time to visit the park is Spring and Fall. Summer temperatures can reach near 100 degrees. Depending on what activities you plan to do, you might need a high clearance vehicle since some areas beyond the paved road are remote and rugged. TO GET HERE From Salt Lake City is about a 3-hour 45-minute drive via I-15 S. Then take Exit 188 and follow US-50 East. Turn right to Utah State Road-260 south to Utah State Road-24 East to the park. Combining visiting other national parks near Capitol Reef National Park: From Bryce Canyon it is about a two-hour drive From Zion National Park it is about a three-hour and 30 minutes drive From Arches National Park is about a two-hour drive From Grand Canyon National Park it is about a five-hour and 50 minutes drive - SCENIC DRIVE - When we visited this park, we didn’t actually plan on stopping here but we thought we should just take a look and then explore it another time. The weather was a little overcast as well. So, we did not hike here but just went on a scenic drive to the overlooks and walked to inner canyons a short distance. The scenic drive, about eight miles, is enough to entice outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Remember, this is not a loop road, you have to comeback the same way. Coming from the west, before you reach the Visitor Center, you will find, along Utah State Route 24, viewpoints such as Chimney Rock, Mummy Cliff, Panorama Point, Sunset Point and the Fluted Wall. The park preserves a rugged landscape of winding canyons, natural bridges, towering monoliths and massive domes known collectively as Capitol Reef. It is part of the nearly hundred-mile long up-thrust known as the Waterpocket Fold, formed between 50 and 70 million years ago. It was a movement along the fault that uplifted the west side relative to the east side. It is believed that the tectonic movement of the North American continental plate that formed the Rocky Mountains may have formed Capitol Reef. Many millions of years of weathering and erosion resulted in this fascinating display of layers of rock and fossils. These are the geologic features that define Capitol Reef National Park and this formation still continues today. You might wonder why many rock walls are full of holes. We did. They are called Solution Pockets which are small cavities developed on the sandstone walls caused by weathering effects of wind, water and ice. It's also called tafoni or honeycomb weathering. The sandstone's exposed soft areas erode easily thus creating holes. If you have time, the Cathedral Valley which offers incredible monoliths, is located in the southern part of the park; this is the most remote area.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is not widely visited compared to other national parks in the United States. It’s not overcrowded with visitors, not yet at least, probably due to its location, deep in the boonies of Colorado, where the nearest town is 11 miles from the north rim and 14 miles from the south rim of the park. This is the "Grand Canyon" of Colorado. It has several overlooks on either rim where you can look down into the magnificent gorge and the Gunnison River, deep down below the canyon wall. This place is definitely not for people who are afraid of heights. The almost vertical sheer drops are a vertigo-inducing experience. There are many other activities within the canyon - mainly rock climbing and river rafting. If you plan on stargazing or night-time cross-county skiing, there are camping sites with RV hookups on the south rim. THE PARK Black Canyon of the Gunnison, located in southwest Colorado, is one of the longest, narrowest and deepest gorges in the world. Black Canyon has a total length of 48 miles, with 14 miles running through the park. The canyon has some of the world's oldest exposed rock - almost two billion years old. The park only achieved "National Park" status in 1999 - after having been a National Monument since 1933. The Gunnison River and several geologic processes created the carving and the steepness of the canyon walls. The walls are so steep, and the canyon so narrow, that it is difficult for the sun to penetrate into many parts, especially in winter. In fact, the bottom of the gorge only receives 33 minutes of sunlight a day on average. That puts much of the canyon into deep shadow at different times of day and year - hence, the name Black Canyon. About half of the Black Canyon Canyon National Park was designated as a wilderness area in 1976, with a total of 15,599 acres. The park has some of the darkest skies in the country where it’s possible to see up to 5,000 stars throughout the night. They preserve the dark sky by limiting artificial lighting only when necessary for safety. In 2015, the park was certified as an International Dark Sky Park. There are astronomy programs that you can check out at the park ranger stations. TO GET HERE There are two main entrances to the park. The south rim entrance is 14 miles from the town of Montrose while the north rim is 11 miles from the town of Crawford. Coming from downtown Denver to the North Rim is about a 4 hour and 43-minute drive via I-70 West. Then take Exit 116 to Glenwood Springs/CO-82. At the town of Carbondale, take CO-133 S/Crawford Road to Black Canyon Road. Coming from downtown Denver to the South Rim is about a five-hour drive via US Highway 285 South. Then follow US-50 West from the town of Poncha Springs. Turn right to CO-347 North to Rim Drive Road. THE SOUTH RIM There are two ranger stations in the park, one on the north rim and the other on the south rim. You can pretty much get the same views from either rims, although some say the north rim is more “photogenic”. But the north rim has difficult access, unpaved road and lacking in facilities. It is also closed in winter. But if you seek solitude, then the north rim is ideal for you since the south rim is more popular. If you want to take on both rims, it will take about two to three hours to drive from one to the other. The south rim is more popular due to its accessibility. It also has the most overlooks, 12 in all. The road is paved as well, Some overlooks have protective railings where the vertical cliffs are over 2,000 feet high, but parts of the trails to the overlooks are unprotected. You have to be cautious, especially if you have kids along with you. You have a choice whether you want to go to every overlook, or choose the ones that are popular such as the iconic Painted Wall. There are hiking trails in the park, but we did not hike here, except to the viewpoints. The hiking routes in the inner canyon are difficult to follow, trails are unmaintained and the hikes, though short, are very strenuous. You have to be prepared to rescue yourself. GUNNISON RIVER The 180-mile-long Gunnison River is one of the largest tributaries of the Colorado River. The Ute Indians referred to the river as “much rocks, big water”. The river was named in honor of John Williams Gunnison, an American military officer and explorer, who led a survey expedition in 1853 for a railroad route (Saint Louis and San Francisco route). Gunnison and seven of his men were massacred by a local band of Pahvant Utes. Gunnison River provides irrigation water to the Uncompahgre Valley through the Gunnison Tunnel. Constructed between 1905 and 1909, the tunnel provided the arid land around Montrose much needed water, as a result of which the town became an agricultural hub. The Gunnison River joins the Colorado River at Grand Junction. From the Rim Drive Road you can take the East Portal Road down to the bottom of the canyon, though the road is steep with many sharp bends. In the canyon is the East Portal Campground. If you're an angler, the river within the park is known for outstanding large trout, a good incentive to stay at the camp for a night or two in summer. This road is closed in winter and early spring (November to April).

This is a newly discovered hiking trail for us, short and easy plus you get to see a great view at the end of the trail. The view of San Vicente Reservoir on this trail is worth driving here. This is a nice and interesting nature trail for families with kids and dogs, or horses. The park contains lush groves of oaks and other native plants. In warmer months camping is available here and stargazing is said to be great in this area. THE PARK This park is small and there is only one trail. The 2.5-mile loop trial is part of the future Trans-County Trail System which begins at Torrey Pines State Preserve and goes to the Anza-Borrego Desert, pretty much connecting the Pacific Coast with the Salton Sea. The system is also known as TCT or Sea to Sea Trail, The Oak Oasis preserve has nearly 400 acres of chaparral, manzanita and woodlands. Though small, its lush vegetation supports several types of habitats and wildlife species. Indeed, we found plenty of wildlife scats along the trail Past the staging area of the park, at the end of Oak Oasis Road, is the Oak Oasis County Preserve Campsite. If you are into camping and stargazing, the campsite has available amenities such as covered a picnic pavilion, restrooms, tent camping, amphitheater with center firepit and cabin. TO GET HERE From downtown San Diego is about a 35-minute drive or so to the Staging Area/Trailhead via I-8 E. Then CA-67 N to Mapleview Street to Wildcat Canyon Road. The Oak Oasis County Preserve is right across from the popular El Cajon Mountain/El Capitan Open Space Preserve. - THE HIKE - The Oak Oasis Loop Trail is short, but you can hike an extra two miles by adding a segment of the Trans-County Trail. You will get the same view as from the Oak Oasis Loop Trail, but at a different angle and elevation. I would say, the highlight on this trail is the view of the San Vicente Reservoir. TRANS-COUNTY TRAIL - 1 mile one way Hiking the Oak Oasis Loop trail, you will encounter a junction with a sign that points you to the Trans County Trail. We followed this trail first before continuing the loop trail to find out what kind of a view we can get from the trail. The trail is mostly downhill, and you will be going back the same way. But then it's just a mile of trail, an overall two-mile addition to the loop trail. If you are a seasoned hiker, it's worth adding this trail since you will have a different view of the San Vicente Reservoir. Take a camera with you and take advantage of the photo opportunities along the way. We always do. This trail will be part of the future Trans-County Trail System I mentioned above. The maintained trail ends abruptly, so it's a good time to turn around and hike back up. We hiked here in winter, but it must be impressive to find the vegetation and cacti here in bloom during springtime. Something to look forward to next time. You might notice a rusted chair among the cactus. Who brought it there I wonder? OAK OASIS LOOP TRAIL - 2.5 miles one way The Oak Oasis Loop Trail is shared with equestrians and avid bird enthusiasts. But when we hiked here before Christmas on a weekday, we almost had the trail to ourselves. We met a couple of hikers but they did not stay long. From the viewpoint is an impressive panoramic view of San Vicente Reservoir, the largest reservoir, in terms of water volume, in San Diego County. It was originally constructed in 1943, but was raised by 117 feet and was re-opened in 2016. It is the tallest dam to have been raised in the United States. The reservoir is part of the San Diego County Water Authority’s Emergency and Carryover Storage Project. Water activities such as boating and fishing is allowed here. The San Vicente Reservoir is so huge that you won't be able to see some parts of the lake from the viewpoint. Hiking to the highest point is not an option, unless you want to bushwhack, but what you can see is great enough such that you want to keep coming back here. Completing the loop trail, after satisfying yourself with the view from the viewpoint, there is a slight elevation gain. But then the last section of the trail is pretty much level - like "a walk in the park". The lush vegetation along this trail is a pleasant experience that you don't see much along some other trails in San Diego County.

Minute Man National Historical Park was the site of the first battle of the 1775 American Revolution. The first shot fired on this site that day by an unknown person was what later inspired Ralph Waldo Emerson to refer to the moment as the “shot heard round the world”. It was popularized throughout the years. This historic event, known as the “Battles of Lexington and Concord”, spread over 16 miles from Boston to Concord. THE PARK The park, established in September 21, 1959 was named after the American militia volunteers called the Minute Men. The park commemorates the beginning of the battle in the American War of Independence. It encompasses 970 acres, which preserve and protect significant historic sites associated with the battle and its landscape. The park also supports a variety of habitats, home to many species of plants, birds, reptiles and other wild animals including white-tailed deer. So, you can enjoy the historic and natural parts of the park at the same time. WHERE TO START? Are you planning to explore the whole park or just parts of it? Depending on how much time you want to spend in the park is a matter of choice. There are two visitor centers in the park. The North Bridge Visitor Center is located along Liberty Street in Concord. The Minute Man Visitor Center is located near the eastern entrance of the park, along N. Great Road/2A in Lincoln. Inside is a multimedia theater program called “The Road to Revolution”. It runs every 30 minutes. It's advisable to start here, watch the program and get a brochure before exploring the park. If you are driving from Boston, the park is about a 30 minute-drive. THE MINUTE MAN STATUE If you begin at the North Bridge, standing adjacent to the bridge is the Minute Man statue. Every visitor probably stops to take pictures here. We did, as you can see on the picture below! The statue was created in 1874 by Daniel Chester French, an American sculptor. He won the contest for the battle's 100th anniversary in 1875. The statue was made out of bronze from melted civil war cannons. It does not represent a particular person but it represents a typical farmer who left his farm and picked up a musket to defend his land and liberty. It is said that these men were ready to "fight at a minute's notice" - hence the name. This statue is used as the logo of the National Guard. It is also shown on the 2000 Massachusetts quarter, as well as on U.S. Savings Bonds and War Bonds during WWII. THE NORTH BRIDGE The famous North Bridge, also called the Old North Bridge, is where colonial commanders ordered militia men to fire back at the British troops on April 19, 1775. The site of the first battle. The current bridge, built in 1956 spanning the Concord River, is an approximate replica of the original bridge. It was the fifth bridge built since the original 1775 “battle bridge” which was taken down in 1788. The current bridge was extensively restored in 2005. As you walk on this bridge, imagine the British troops and militia men standing here. facing each other. Well, they actually do reenactments of the event here, so check the park's calendar of events to find when. The Concord River flowing under the North Bridge is a 16.3 mile long tributary of the Merrimack River. Native Americans called it the Musketaquid or “grass grown” river because the sluggish water abounds with aquatic vegetation while the banks are covered with wild grasses and sedges. THE OLD MANSE HOUSE Nearby, on the banks of Concord River is the Old Manse House, built in 1770. It was built for patriot minister William Emerson. Later, it was home to some well-known literary persons such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, a 19th century American essayist and poet, and Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American novelist. Their resting places can be found at the Authors Ridge/Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord. THE ROBBINS HOUSE Check out the Robbins House before, or after, visiting the North Bridge; it is located near the parking lot. The Robbins House is a two-family home built in the 1800s by the children (son and daughter and their family) of slavery survivor and Revolutionary War veteran Caesar Robbins. His daughter, Susan Garrison, was a founding member of the Concord Female Antislavery Society. His grand daughter, Ellen Garrison, went on to become a social activist and teacher. - HISTORIC TRAIL - THE BATTLE ROAD TRAIL - 5 miles So, taking the Battle Road Trail, you can choose at which end you want to start. One Battle Road trailhead is at Meriam’s Corner, along Lexington Road/N. Great Road (2A) in Concord. The eastern end of the park is at the corner of Old Massachusetts Ave. and Wood St. in Lexington. This trail connects various historic sites and buildings such as Farwell Jones House, Olive Stow House, Samuel Brooks House, Brooks Village, Job Brooks House, Hartwell Tavern, Samuel Hartwell House, Captain William Smith House, Paul Revere Capture Site and others. The Hartwell Tavern, a restored 18th century tavern, today a historic house museum, is staffed by park rangers wearing costumes of that era. If you visit in summer, the staff demonstrate a musket firing in the paddock. NOTE: The park is free to visit. The visitor centers are closed in winter. While in Concord, don't forget to explore the beautiful historic town.

The Santa Ysabel Nature Center Loop Trail is quite new. It’s not even marked on Google Maps yet, except the West Vista Loop Trail/Coast to Crest Trail. These trails are part of the Santa Ysabel Preserve East and connect to the park’s other east trails - the Kanaka Loop Trail. This is a very pleasant trail combination though it’s best to hike here when the weather is cool. Although there is shade on parts of the trails, much of the hike is in an open area where the sun beats down on you. But you can cool down under the shade of the enormous Engelmann Oak trees scattered along the trails. At the end of the hike, you can refresh inside the nature center while browsing the exhibits. What's more, one other perk of hiking in Santa Ysabel is the popular pie shop (Julian Pie Company) at the center of the village where you can indulge after a hike for some afternoon snack. We stop here ourselves occasionally. How can you resist a good slice of apple pie? THE PARK The Nature Center is located on the west edge of the Santa Ysabel Preserve East, on Highway 79. The preserve is owned and managed by the County of San Diego’s Department of Parks and Recreation. In this 6,347-acre protected land is the modern Nature Center structure, a 6,000 square-foot LEED Gold and Zero Net Energy facility. It offers interactive exhibits, ranger offices, a community room and kitchen, as well as a water refilling station and rest rooms. Browsing the exhibits inside the center is a learning experience for everyone, not just for kids. The building itself is slightly obscured from the highway, but the entrance sign is quite visible by the road. Since the Santa Ysabel Preserve consists of two non-connected segments (east and west), there is the possibility of visitors being confused because they are unfamiliar with the area. There are separate trailheads into both parts of the preserve, and people can find themselves on the wrong trail sometimes. We met a couple once as we were hiking in the west segment of the preserve who asked where the nature center is. They were obviously lost, not knowing about the two different segments. TO GET HERE This trail can be reach via Highway 79 and Highway 78/Old Julian Highway. If you are coming from Ramona driving on Highway 78, turn left to Highway 79 as you reach the Santa Ysabel town. If you are coming from Julian, turn right at the center of town. From the town it is about 0.3 miles to the entrance of the nature center. There is ample parking space here. If you are hiking the West Vista Loop Trail/Coast to Crest Trail, then park at the Santa Ysabel East Preserve staging area about 0.9 mile north along Highway 79 from the nature center. However, there is no designated parking at this trailhead, just a small widened area beside the road. - HIKING TRAILS - You have several options hiking here. You can either take the Nature Center Loop Trail alone, or combine it with the West Vista Loop Trail/Coast to Crest Trail. On this hike, we hiked both loops to make the hike longer. We had to repeat about a mile of the trail but the hike is short enough that we didn’t mind doing it. NATURE CENTER LOOP TRAIL & WEST VISTA LOOP TRAIL - 6 miles The easiest way to hike this trail is by doing a counter-clockwise approach. The trail is less steep with plenty of shades and equally beautiful views The trailhead, if you are doing the counterclockwise approach, is just behind the nature center, past the hanging bells and before the children’s playground. The trail is all uphill all the way to the first junction. This is where you decide if you want to take a longer hike, or not. The Nature Loop Trail continues down to the left while continuing uphill you will enter the West Vista Loop Trail/Coast to Crest Trail. We took the “Figure Eight” approach. Since this was our first time to hike this trail, it's good to know the options, so we can get acquainted with what's in the park. Of course it's good to have cameras along. You never know what you will find in the park - views, wildflowers, wild animals. From the junction it is pretty much an easy hike. There are groves of Engelmann Oak trees and wide open meadows. I can imagine wild animals feeding on grass or wildflowers covering this meadow, but not that day. It was Fall and too late in the day to see any wild animals roaming. At a junction, you can either complete the Nature Loop Trail and head back down, or follow the West Vista Loop Trail/Coast to Crest Trail. As I mentioned earlier, we did the "figure eight" hike. After completing the upper loop, you arrive at another junction, where you will find a fenced-in picnic area with tables and attached benches. It is a very nice spot to have lunch or a snack to boost your energy, or simply hang out for a bit before continuing on the hike. You get shade from the oak trees here as well to cool you off. The Coast to Crest Trail continues ahead from here. You have to pay attention, follow the sign to the Nature Center/Santa Ysabel Loop Trail. Otherwise you might find yourself following the Coast to Crest Trail and end up on Kanaka Loop Trail on the east side of the preserve. Hikers sometimes miss the signs if they are busy talking - believe me, we have encountered a few on our previous hikes. With the West Vista loop completed and back on Nature Center Loop Trail, you would think it will be easy from here on, at least for a while. The long steep downhill is a "leg burner", as my husband, Hermann, always says. As you start the long steep descent, you will be in the open all the way, there is no shade on this part of the trail. But at the bottom of the steep hill is an open field. You still have a long way back to the nature center, but there are spots of beautiful Engelmann Oak trees along the way which provide shade to cool you off. NOTE: Bring plenty of water. You can easily get dehydrated hiking on this trail. Sunblock is a must and so is a hat, appropriate footwear (hiking boots) and hiking sticks. OTHER TRAILS TO EXPLORE IN THE PRESERVE:

In visiting San Diego, make sure to visit Cabrillo National Monument, located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula. This park commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo on September 28, 1542 in “a closed and very good port”, which he called San Miguel, today San Diego Bay. Cabrillo was the leader of the first European expedition that set foot on the west coast of the United States, and his statue stands in this park as a reminder of that historic day. Also in the park is the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, as well as some remnants of the old military defense system used during World Wars I and II. Besides that, the view from this park is fantastic; you would want to hang around and just enjoy looking at San Diego bay. ROSECRANS NATIONAL CEMETERY But before you reach the park, you will pass the Rosecrans National Cemetery along Cabrillo Memorial Drive. You can stop here on the way to the park, or on your way back. It's a beautiful setting for a cemetery, a nice place to walk around and pay tribute to the fallen heroes. The USS Bennington Monument, a 60 foot granite obelisk found here, is a memorial to the 66 U.S. Navy men who died when the gunboat's boiler exploded in 1905 in San Diego Bay. THE PARK Cabrillo National Monument was established in 1913 and designated as California Historical Landmark #56 in 1932 . Then it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966. So, who is Cabrillo? Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo was a Portuguese explorer who led the first European expedition under the flag of Spain, to what is now the west coast of the United States. He died from complications on January 3, 1543, due to a shattered limb acquired after a fall during a brief skirmish with a local tribe. It is believed that he was buried on Catalina Island. Before you explore, start at the Visitor Center to know what the park has to offer and what events are open that day. You can explore on your own but there is a guided walking tour if you wish. In late December through mid march, there is "Whale Watch Weekend", when migrating grey whales from Alaska to Baja California pass by the coast. Then, there's an "Open Tower Day" where the tower at the top of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is open to the public for two days. You can also check the park's website for other events prior to you visit. TO GET HERE If you are staying in downtown and you are traveling on your own, meaning no family living in San Diego to take you, driving to Cabrillo is about 25 to 27 minutes. You can drive either via N. Harbor Drive or via I-5 North. THE MONUMENT The monument is right across from the visitor center. The original sandstone statue, 14 feet high, was created by sculptor Alvaro de Bree for the Golden Gate International Exposition in San Francisco, and was donated to the United States by Portugal in 1939. However, it arrived too late and was stored in a garage. The then state senator, Ed Fletcher, managed to acquire the statue and shipped it to San Diego where it was stored out of public view, until it was finally installed in 1949. The statue suffered weathering later on and was replaced in 1988 by a limestone replica. The one that stands today. THE OLD POINT LOMA LIGHTHOUSE The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, located on the highest point in the park (422 feet), is one of the original eight lighthouses on the West Coast. The walls were built of limestone mined from the hillside and the floor tiles were salvaged from an old Spanish Fort. This lighthouse was in operation from 1855 to 1891. But the lighthouse was not as effective due to its high location. The light was often obscured by fog and low clouds, so it was replaced in 1891 with one built at a lower elevation. The original 5 foot tall 3rd Order Fresnel lens, invented by a French physicist Augustine Fresnel, was removed within a week after the tower closed its operation. During World Wars I and II, Cabrillo was closed to the public. The entire south end of the peninsula was reserved for the military to protect the harbor from enemy warships. The old lighthouse was painted olive green and was used as a command post and radio station. As you walk along the paths, you will find remains of these military defenses. Standing beside the old lighthouse is the rehabilitated Assistant Keepers Quarters which displays collections of lighthouse-related artifacts, including the Fresnel lenses. NEW POINT LOMA LIGHTHOUSE POINT LOMA TIDE POOLS Don't limit your visit to the monument. If you are wearing proper shoes, drive down to the Point Loma Tide Pools. This is one of the best protected intertidal areas in California. You can walk all the way down if the tide is low. During high tide there are some great photo opportunities here. BAYSIDE TRAIL - 2.5 miles There is a two-mile hiking trail here that begins near the old lighthouse. The Bayside Trail is an easy 2.5 miles (round trip), open every day from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, located on the southeast side of the park. There is no access to the beach but the trail follows the old military road ending at the Ballast Point. It is believed Cabrillo’s ship was anchored at this point in 1542. Today, nuclear-powered submarines are docked here. Pets and bikes are not allowed on the trail. It’s a short hike, but some might find it hard to hike back up. NOTE: There is a fee to enter the park. $20 per vehicle, $15 for motorcycles and $10 for individuals. There is an annual pass that you can buy if you plan on visiting several times.

Yosemite National Park, located in the Central Sierra Nevada in California, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Almost four million each year visit this park, reaching a high of five million in 2016. If you have been here, then you will understand why. The park’s nearly 1,200 square miles (or 759.620 acres) offer plenty of places to explore - valleys, meadows, giant sequoia trees, a vast wilderness and rich human history, not to mention spectacular mountains to view and climb. Yosemite is also home to some of the most impressive waterfalls – Sentinel Falls, Yosemite Falls, Ribbon Fall, Horsetail Fall, Bridal Veil Fall, Nevada Fall, Vernal Falls, Illilouette Fall, Wapama Falls, Chilnualna Falls, as well as impressive cliffs and rock formations. THE PARK Yosemite meaning, “killer” in Miwok language, has been home for native Americans for thousands of years, since Ice Age glaciers receded. The area was once called the Village of Ahwahneechee (“dwellers”) people, the largest Indian village in Yosemite Valley. Behind the Yosemite Museum is a reconstructed village of the Miwok people, which is still used today by members of the local American Indian community for ceremonies and special gatherings. The first European Americans to enter Yosemite Valley came in 1851. It was the beginning of tourism in the area and marked the end of life as they knew it in the valley for the Indian communities. Painters and photographers, such as Albert Bierstadt, lobbied to establish the original Yosemite Grant in 1864. The images they provided for Congress and President Lincoln helped to approve its preservation, under the protection of the state of California. Finally, Yosemite was established as a National Park in 1890 after John Muir’s successful lobbying of Congress. It is believed that John Muir influenced President Theodore Roosevelt to expand the park’s federal protections, after spending time with him in the park in 1903. Later, in 1984, Yosemite was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. POPULAR VIEWPOINTS IN THE PARK When we visited the park, visitors could drive freely into the pami valley of the park, but in later years traffic congestion became a problem during peak season such that shuttle buses were provided for free year-round. Starting in 2020, it now also requires advance reservations to access the park during peak seasons. What hasn't changed is that most visitors still confine their visit to the Yosemite Valley, concentrating on the park's most popular viewpoints. TUNNEL VIEW – Located along Wawona Road is one of the most famous views in Yosemite Valley. It is the first viewpoint visitors see in the valley when approaching by this road. The view is impressive indeed, as you can see from the picture below. Imagine how many photos of this view have been taken over the years? You will never get tired of looking at it. GLACIER POINT - is the most spectacular viewpoint in the park, with the view of Yosemite Valley below, the famous Half Dome and three waterfalls. This must be the busiest area of the park. Half Dome is Yosemite’s icon, rising nearly 5,000 feet above the valley floor. People climb it, but there's a lottery to get tickets for that if you are planning to climb it. This limits the number of hikers that can do this hike each day since it has become over-crowded. From Glacier Point, you will see Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls below. These are some of the best waterfalls in the park. We couldn't resist hiking to these falls the next day. If you don't have vertigo, look down and you will see an impressive aerial view of the Yosemite Valley below. It's a long way down so utmost care is a must. This valley is the most popular area in the park and it means crowds are concentrated here. NEXT... Hiking in Yosemite National Park

Fall is one of the best seasons of the year to explore. The weather is cooler and the autumn colors are amazing. That is, if you know where to look. If you plan on doing some “leaf peeping”, one of the best places to look is in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, the second largest state park in Colorado. To visit this park, you will have to pay $10 car entry fee, but it’s worth the money, not just to see the colors of autumn but the park itself. It has about 12,000 acres with over 35 miles of hiking trails, with panoramic views of Colorado’s prominent peaks from some trails. If you don’t want to hike, the Panorama Point Scenic Overlook is accessible by car where a stunning view spans 100 miles. There are also picnic grounds for day use. THE PARK Golden Gate Canyon State Park is one of 41 state parks in Colorado. It gained its status as a park in 1960, the second state park opened in the state. The canyon, where it is located, took its name from the Golden Gate City community (named after Tom Golden), built during the 1859 Pikes Peak gold rush. The park retained some of the homesteads from when the land was settled back in the 1800’s as part of the Homestead Act. TO GET HERE To get to the park from Denver is about a 45-minute drive via US-6 west and Highway 93 north. Turn left and follow Golden Gate Canyon Road all the way to the park, about 12.5 miles. -THE HIKES- Golden Gate Canyon State Park has twelve trails, each named after an animal and marked with its footprint. Take note! The Mountain Lion Trail, I have read, will be renamed “John Denver’s Rocky Mountain High Trail”. It was announced on June 8 of 2020. Some of the trails in the park are either multiple use (mountain bikes, horses and hikers), or for hikers only. The trails are interconnected, you can make your own variation - shorter or longer as you wish. COYOTE & MULE DEER LOOP TRAIL – 8.0 miles This hike begins at the Bootleg Bottom Picnic Area. If you haven't been on this trail, you will discover soon enough why it was named as such. The Coyote Trail is rated as “Most Difficult”, but that depends on your hiking capabilities of course, while the Mule Deer is rated as "Moderate". The Mule Deer Trail is multi-use so you may meet hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers, while the Coyote Trail is for hikers only. It's nice to hike here in the fall when Aspen trees change from green to golden. On a sunny day, they are so bright as the sun shines on the leaves, they pop up from the surrounding pine trees. Right at the beginning of the trail, you will find groves of these trees. But wait, there's more, so don't get too excited. You will find groves with orange and reddish colors on some of these trees along the trail. We began our hike on the Coyote Trail. If your aim is to reach the Panorama Point only, then you can take the Mule Deer Trail to Panorama Point and back. That is an easy hike. However, the Coyote Trail is quite steep at the beginning with much elevation gain as the trail follows around Tremont Mountain. By taking the loop you will find views of the high mountains in the distance, all the way to the Rocky Mountain National Park. BOOTLEGGERS LOG CABIN Not far from the beginning of the trail, you will find an old log house used by bootleggers, moonshiners and speakeasies (illegal bars), during the 1920s. It was the result of the 1918 prohibition act (18th Amendment) which mad it illegal to make, import and drink alcoholic beverages. The Golden Gate country back then was remote, perfect for making whiskey, which they called "Skunk Whiskey" or Squirrel Whiskey" - the smell, or taste" must be awful to have it named after these wild animals. There is an interpretative sign that tells the story on how bootleggers operated with this illegal spirits. It was quite interesting. AUTUMN COLORS Come along and see what it's like along this trail. The Precambrian rocks, the earliest of the geologic ages, found in the park protruding above the trees are very much an interesting sight. If you time it right, this trail has the most amazing fall colors. It varies from year to year, depending on the weather conditions during the previous spring and summer. Fall can sometimes be drab in Colorado in some years. On this hike, we got lucky, as you can see in the pictures here. PANORAMA POINT Although there are great views along this whole loop, the highlight of the trail, besides the fall colors, is the Panorama Point. This you can also reach by car via Gap Road if you are not into hiking. It gives a wide open view of the Continental Divide, with some of the highest peaks in Colorado. This is a popular spot, meaning you will meet plenty of people here. In fact, you can have your wedding on this very same spot, by the deck, if you wish - how could you not with a view like this? NOTE: By the Bootleg picnic area, you will find groves of aspen trees as well. Picnic tables and grill are available here if you are not hiking. BURRO & MOUNTAIN LION LOOP TRAIL (WINDY PEAK) – 7 miles This hike begins at Bridge Creek Trailhead. This loop trail is rated as difficult, but as I said time and again, it defends on your hiking capabilities. The signs on this trail are quite a bit confusing sometimes so make sure to bring a map with you. Trails are interconnecting so make sure to check the map as you hike. A short distance from the parking lot, you will cross Ralston creek. At about a mile is a junction where you can either hike clockwise or counterclockwise, whichever you prefer. On this hike we did a counterclockwise approach. It's rugged terrain with high rock outcroppings might find it challenging for some. WINDY PEAK On this loop, there is a detour to Windy Peak (11,970 feet). Here, you will find a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains. Though not as spectacular as some other hiking trails in Colorado, but the view is beautiful. HISTORIC TALLMAN HOMESTEAD If you haven't been on this trail, you will be surprised to find an old homestead. It's quite a nice setting actually. This site was once a ranch owned by a Swedish immigrant, Anders Tallman and his wife Christiana. Here, they raised farm animals and grew vegetables with their son and daughter in the 1800's. The ranch site is in a place referred to as Forgotten Valley due to its remoteness. It became part of the Golden Canyon State Park in 1970. The State Historical Fund spent $100,000 to preserve the buildings, From here, it's a little over a mile back to the trailhead. BLACK BEAR & HORSESHOE LOOP TRAIL – 6.5 miles This hike begins at the Black Bear/Horseshoe Loop Trailhead, or at Ralston Roost Trailhead by the Visitor Center. This trail is rated as moderate if you only do the Horseshoe Trail, while Black Bear Trail is rated as most difficult. Both trails are for hikers only and popular among hikers. The trail begins among Aspen trees but then you have a choice if you want to hike clockwise or counterclockwise. The Black Bear trail follows the uphill ridge and then descends down to Frazer Meadow. From the ridge you will see a good view of the Continental Divide. As you reach the Frazer Meadow, there is a back country shelter provided for campers. There are four of these in the park and campers without a tent can sleep here - up to six people. It's quite a sturdy Appalachian Trail-style hut. NOTE: The park is open year-round. There are camping sites, cabins, yurt and guest houses if you want to stay longer in the park. Winter activities includes tubing, cross-country skiing, camping and ice fishing. No cellphone service here, so you can totally immerse yourself in nature. Dogs are allowed but must be on a 6-foot leash at all times.

After visiting Sequoia National Park the past two days, and planning to visit Yosemite National Park the following two days, we didn't plan on any serious exploring when we visited Kings Canyon National Park. We just planned to take a day to see what the park has to offer in the event we come back another time when we have more time. Kings Canyon National Park is adjacent to Sequoia National Park and visiting these two parks requires only one entrance fee since they are both administered by the National Park Service as a single unit. John Muir considered this park as “a rival to Yosemite”. You will find less foot traffic here (except in the Kings Canyon backcountry, which is heavily used), but don’t think it lacks the attractions that other national parks have. The majority of the park is wilderness and not accessible by car, hence you have to camp or backpack to explore. Kings Canyon offers great granite canyon walls, beautiful valleys and waterfalls. The deepest canyon in the United States is also found here - more than a mile and a half deep. The park is also home to the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world. THE PARK Kings Canyon National Park, located in the southern Sierra Nevada, was originally established in 1890 and was named General Grant National Park. Initially, it was meant to protect a small area of giant sequoias Sequoiadendron giganteum) from logging. The park was renamed to its present name on March 4, 1940, after it was significantly expanded. There are two areas to explore in the park, one is in Grant Grove, home to the General Grant tree, the second largest sequoia in the world (267 feet high with 29-foot base). This tree is also known as “the Nation’s Christmas Tree”. Then there is the Cedar Grove area located near the South Fork of the Kings River, known for its towering cliffs, impressive meadows and massive trees. This area extends to Giant Sequoia National Monument. In 1976, King’s Canyon was designated by UNESCO as part of the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Biosphere Reserve. TO GET HERE There are two-ways to get to Grant Grove Village in Kings Canyon. From Three Rivers where we stayed, one is via Sierra Drive and Dry Creek Drive to CA-245 N to CA-180/E Kings Canyon Road. It’s about one and a quarter hour drive. The other way is through Sequoia National Park via Generals Highway, which will take almost two-hour to get to Grant Grove Village. A VERY SCENIC DRIVE IN THE PARK Driving in Kings Canyon National Park is very scenic. The high cliffs and deep gorge are very impressive - we were glad to find that overlooks were provided so visitors can admire the amazing views. Bringing camera is a must; I mean, the real one, not just a cell phone. Part of the road from Grant Grove Village (CA-180) follows the South Fork Kings River from Yucca Point Overlook, and it was a pleasant drive all the way to the end of the road. There are some hairy sections but keep your eyes on the road and don't get distracted by the view. I know, that would be hard, but there are overlooks where you can stop to admire the stunning scenery. JUNCTION VIEW TO KINGS CANYON LODGE About 2.4 miles from Junction View, you will find Kings Canyon Lodge where you can fill up with gas from an old, or should I say, antique gas pump. Even if you don't need a gas it's actually cool to get gas here just to find out how it works. But you'll pay for it! - HIKING - There are miles of hiking trails in the park with 25 trailheads located in the Grant Grove and Cedar Grove areas. The most popular trails include Mist Falls, Big Baldy Ridge Trail, Rae Lakes Trail, General Grant Loop Trail, Zumwalt Meadow Trail, Roaring River Falls, and Buena Vista Trail. You can spend days in the park exploring hiking trails, but we only had a day to spend so we opted for the easy and popular sites in the park. ROARING RIVER FALLS - 0.3 miles From Cedar Grove Visitor Center to the Roaring River Falls Trailhead is about a three-mile drive. The falls is a tributary of the South Fork Kings River. It is a very short hike from the road (CA-180) to the falls - about 0.3 miles. You will see the sign as you approach the bridge crossing the Roaring River. The trailhead parking is just around the corner, past the bridge. To see just one of the many waterfalls in the park was good enough for a day trip. We were lucky to find the place to ourselves and take photos leisurely. ZUMWALT MEADOW (Cedar Grove) – 2 miles So, from Roaring River Falls, drive another 1.7 miles and you will reach Zumwalt Meadows Trailhead. It's almost at the end of the road, right by the Zumwalt Meadow, which was named for D. K. Zumwalt, a railway attorney who was instrumental in saving the area. This trail is a short and easy hike for anyone. It's considered one of the best day hikes in the park. You will understand why from the pictures below. Words cannot express how beautiful this trail is, and to find these views without exerting too much effort is amazing. Hiking this trail is indeed a pleasant experience. With gentle grades and stunning views of the high granite walls and meadows, you can easily find yourself coming back here, again and again. It was such a peaceful hike. We were here in 2014, when this was a loop trail, but it has changed since then after natural flooding washed away part of the trail passing through the meadow in 2019. NOTE: If you intend to stay in the park for more than a day, you can either camp or stay in the lodge or cabins. Check the permit requirements if you plan to stay. Equestrians are allowed in the park but dogs are not allowed on the trails.

Mt. Woodson is one of the most popular trails in Poway (another is Iron Mountain), due to its close proximity to the city and the “Potato Chip Rock” that you will find near the summit. We’ve been hiking here even before the rock became so popular. Today, young hikers line up waiting for their turn to take a photo of themselves sitting, or standing, at the edge of this seven-foot or so thin protruding piece of rock - I wonder how long this rock can stand the weight before it cracks (knock on wood!), hopefully without people on it. Mt. Woodson is called Ewiiy Hellyaa by the Kumeyaay people, meaning the "Mountain of the Moonlit Rocks". It was renamed in honor of Confederate surgeon Dr. Marshall Clay Woodson who settled in the area in 1875. Mt. Woodson was also called Stony Mountain. You will see why. TO GET HERE There are different ways to Mt. Woodson if you are coming from downtown San Diego. The main trailhead is by Lake Poway, about a 33-minute drive. The straightforward approach here is via CA-163 and I-15 N and then take the exit to Poway Road which you follow to Espola Road. Then turn left and go until you reach Lake Poway Road. Turn right here and go to the parking lot. There is a parking fee here for non-residents, but only on weekends and holidays. The other trail is about 39 minutes via CA-163 N. From I-15 N take exit 17 to Scripps Poway Parkway then turn left on CA-67 N. There is no designated parking here, not yet at least. For the meantime, hikers just park along the road. - THE HIKE - The longest route to Mt. Woodson is about 8 miles from the Lake Poway Recreation Area. The shorter route, about four miles round trip, is starts at the trailhead by Route 67. Starting early is a must to avoid the heat, and go on a weekday if you can to avoid the weekend crowds. We hike here in winter when the weather is ideal, cool and sunny with a chilly breeze. MT. WOODSON TRAILHEAD – 8 miles round trip This trail is rated as moderately challenging, but that also depends on your hiking capabilities. It’s a much longer route than the other one, strenuous but worth the view you will find along the way, even at the beginning of the hike. Hermann hiked here more times than I did and always from Lake Poway. Known as one of San Diego County’s best lakes, the trail follows the right side of this lake for almost a mile before it veers off to the east, to the Mt. Woodson Trail. The view of the lake gets better as you hike uphill; the whole aerial view of the lake as you get higher is stunning - this is a reservoir so swimming is not allowed, for both humans and pets. The challenging part of the hike starts at a junction where the Mount Woodson Trail leave the Lake Poway loop. The hardest part is after Mt. Woodson Trail Halfway Point. From here, there are several switchbacks until you reach the the ridge of Mount Woodson, which you will follow until you reach Potato Chip Rock, shortly before the summit. You will find huge rocks, or boulders along the trail. Is that why this mountain was once called "Stony Mountain"? Go figure. This is a popular trail, so if you are looking for a wilderness experience then this is not for you. Head up to Julian if you do seek a quieter hike. Most hikers' goal in hiking Mt. Woodson is to reach the Potato Chip Rock. You will reach it less than half a mile before the summit. You will see the thin protruding rock from below and there are usually clusters of people waiting so, if that is your goal you have to get in line until it's your turn to get up there. I would have done it in one of our hikes, before it became so popular, but my husband is not so keen about me going up there. This trail is mostly in the open, therefore no shade along the trail until near the summit where you will find Coulter pines (Pinus coulteri) which it produce giant pinecones. There are communication facilities at the top so you wouldn't actually get a 360 degree view, but what you see is good enough that it's worth hiking all the way up. You can even see the ocean on a clear day. The trail continues down from the summit on a paved road. It leads down to CA-67, the other trailhead to Mt. Woodson. We haven’t tried this route, though shorter, this trail is paved and steep. LAKE POWAY LOOP TRAIL – 2.8 mile If Mt. Woodson is not for you, you can take the Lake Poway Loop Trail. It’s an easy loop route of about 2.8 miles around the lake. On this trail, you can get different views of the lake with picnic areas where you can rest. If hiking Mt. Woodson is not enough of a hike for you, then you can add the Lake Poway Loop Trail to your Mount Woodson experience. While at it and you have time and still have an energy, you might want to do some recreation at the lake as well. Fishing (Wednesday to Sunday) and boating is allowed here. On the map below shows the Mt. Woodson Trail and the Lake Poway Loop Trail. Combining the two trails in one hike is doable if you are a seasoned hiker. Otherwise, do not attempt it, especially in hot weather conditions.