Set between Lake Elsinore, Temecula, and Menifee, this stretch of Southern California feels like a pocket of open space wedged neatly between growing communities. These low, rugged peaks rise out of the valley almost unexpectedly, creating a small network of trails that offer big views without committing to a full mountain day. It’s the kind of place where you can park, start climbing almost immediately, and still feel removed from the surrounding development.
Some places never lose their magic — no matter how many times you return. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of those rare spots. Perched above the Pacific in La Jolla, it’s a dramatic mix of rugged cliffs, rare pine trees, and golden beaches that somehow feels wild and refined at the same time.
Some hikes start at trailheads. This one started on a train.
Photo: Coaster Train Along the San Diego Coast
I was up in North County, so my Seven Bridges adventure began on the Coaster, rolling down the coast to Old Town. From there, a quick transfer to the Blue Line trolley took me a couple stops to Middletown. It’s a short but very San Diego walk—palm trees, old homes, and a slow incline—toward the corner of West Laurel and Union.
Let me start by saying this: El Cajon Mountain does not mess around. This isn’t one of those “wow, what a nice stroll through nature” kind of hikes. This is more like “why am I going uphill again?” with a side of “my quads might never forgive me.” And yet — I’d absolutely do it again.
This is an ~11-mile out-and-back with over 3,500 feet of elevation gain, and it earns every bit of its reputation. Short on paper, relentless on the trail — the kind of hike that doesn’t just test your legs, but your patience.
Some hikes impress you with views.
Others surprise you with stories.
Hiking Lake Hodges did both — quietly and unexpectedly. What began as a straightforward out-and-back turned into a walk through early water engineering, subtle trail art, wildfire reminders, and one lingering mystery that stuck with me long after I left the trail.
I parked across from Hernandez Hideaway, crossed the road, and headed south toward the dam. From the first steps, this hike felt like more than just mileage.
Confession time: I’m a closeted Wheel of Fortune fan. And when I found out they were hosting their first live auditions since the pandemic—with Ryan Seacrest as the new host, no less—I knew I had to go.
The audition was happening at Sycuan Casino in San Diego. So I set my alarm early, fueled up with coffee, and made the hour-long drive southeast.
I’ve logged a lot of miles on Double Peak over the years. It’s one of those hikes I keep coming back to—reliable, familiar, and somehow still surprising.
Recently, though, I started pushing beyond my usual routine. I added side trails, longer spurs, and eventually… yes, the San Elijo Hills 10K Loop, which I once swore I’d never hike.
Never say never, I guess.
You’ll find those updates toward the end of this post. But first, let’s rewind to why Double Peak keeps pulling me back.
You know those places that aren’t on your radar but end up being a cool surprise? That was Mount Rubidoux Park for me.
I was en route to Las Vegas to catch up with an old friend, but first, I had to scratch that hiking itch. So, a quick AllTrails search led me to Mount Rubidoux—a quirky hike tucked right into the middle of Riverside.
Sometimes, you don’t need to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere special. After living in Southern California off and on for years, I finally made it to Big Bear Lake — one of those places that had somehow stayed just out of reach.
If you’re craving an adventure that blends nature’s beauty with a solid workout, hiking at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve is a must. On my most recent hike, I made my way up the Botanical Trail, transitioned to the Way Up Trail, looped toward the Lake Hodges Overlook, and then descended back down the Way Up Trail. Altogether, it’s a route that delivers steady elevation, wide-open views, and just enough challenge to feel earned.
Trust me—it’s a journey you’ll want to take.
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