Cuyamaca Peak via Azalea Glen

Beautiful hike. Definitely recommend the Azalea Glen route to the top! It was winding and I felt like I was heading in the opposite direction of the peak for a bit but the beautiful plants, streams, shade and wildlife made it worth it. Lots of views on the way up! Had to scramble a bit around the SDG&E stuff to find the actual peak but was glad I did. Don’t just stop at the viewpoint, get to the benchmarks and cute little blue sign. I saw a red-tailed hawk flying below! Took the paved lookout road back down even though previous hikers recommended going out-and-back on azalea glen because I was ready for the short-cut at that point. Pretty views that way too but the pavement definitely wasn’t as fun on my feet and knees. And at that point it was noon and getting HOT. 10/10 would hike this peak again!