Hot Springs mountain, a moderately difficult hike, expounded by the fact that we chose to conquer this peak in mid-July. However, we planned accordingly as much as possible. The forecast expected high 90’s in late morning, so we began this trek around 5am.

There is a ranger station a few miles before the trailhead which requires check-in, but does not open until 8am. We had no problem driving past it, parking, and paying the $10/person fee online prior to the hike. After turning left on Sukat Rd, you will arrive in a campground area. This trail is an old fire road and Sukat Rd is actually the path that you will hike to the peak.

The first 2 miles of this trail are undoubtedly the most challenging due to its consistent incline, but because we hit this ascent so early the descent in extreme heat took more of a toll on our tired bodies. After this point the trail flattens out and the terrain changes to a beautiful walk through patchy woods. The road splits once: left to Hot Springs Mountain (I think) and right to the lookout tower. To get to the peak, you will actually go right. When reaching the top, the old lookout tower will be on your left. To get to the geological point, you will have to go right and navigate through a more overgrown trail marked by sun-bleached plastic ties attached to trees. You will reach a ladder, here a decent amount of rock climbing is required to reach the top where the geological indicators and peak signs are located. Ropes have been anchored to the side of boulder to assist with this 20-foot climb — be warned, it is not for the faint of heart.

Overall this was a stunning hike, that added yet another possibility to the variety of San Diego terrain. I would recommend carrying food and at least 3L of water per individual. The bugs didn’t appear to be as hungry for people as in some of our other adventures, but they were a nuisance and a bug net would help greatly. Lastly, this is a REMOTE mountain — safety first!…And in our opinion hiking is more fun with company anyway!