Now that we’re back in shape, and while the weather was still cool, we decided to take a day-hike to the summit of the highest mountain in San Diego County: Hot Springs Mountain, elevation 6533 feet. Unlike other summits, this mountain resides within the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation, and so a visit requires permission from the tribe. Currently this is easy to get: Just pay ten dollars for a permit at the reservation’s entrance and drive a few miles to the trailhead.
After that, it’s merely a matter of hiking five miles each way and ascending about 2000 feet. It sounds much easier than it is, however, so don’t fool yourself: You’ll be in for a solid day of hiking.
Click on the photo to read the complete Trip Report