Two hikes in two days! It's been a while since I've done that last time. The night before I was a bit hesitant whether I wanted to do this hike or not because of several reviews stating that Viejas Mountain Trail - South Approach was quite a bit steep. I've done several hikes that were steep and remembered how difficult it was going downhill, especially on loose gravel. In the morning, however, I woke up refreshed and somewhat determined. I grabbed my backpack that was still unpacked from the hike the day before and after a delicious cup of coffee headed to my car.
The drive seemed to be long, the perception of time is really an interesting thing... I arrived at the trailhead and parked behind a white Tesla. "This is a good sign," I thought to myself. The group was already there, and within 15 minutes we were on our way ascending the first mile. As AllTrails recorded, we gained over 1,000 ft in just mile 1.
Because of the quick elevation gain, the views were fabulous from the very beginning. Initially, polluted by traffic noise, but as we progressed along the trail further into the mountain, even that faded and later disappeared.
The trail became less steep after the first mile, but remained rocky. In some areas, I had to do some rock scrambling just to be on the safe side as the trail was only somewhat defined. Overgrown with shrubs, the trail in some areas was rather brutal to the legs that were not covered with pants (not mine, this time!). No rattlesnakes though! Still too cold for them, but I would anticipate in this terrain it would be something to look out for on a warm day.
There were two fake peaks. As you approach the top, you think that this must be it, but it isn't... And you continue... Until you reach another and realize that it is not the top either... And so you move one until you reach the final destination.
No comments:
Post a Comment