High Point Palomar

An easy drive north on 15 out of Rancho Bernardo, then to 79 which is a beautiful drive east of Temecula; hot air balloons were in full force. Trail head was not easy to locate but the local firefighters guided us in the right direction. Perfectly clear day, temperatures were ripe for hiking.  Cool in the morning but very temperate throughout the day.  If you look at this hike in thirds, the first third was an impressive ascent, and I was NOT talking much at this point…somewhat taxing for this old guy. The middle third not too bad, and then the final third was another test of fitness.  Views from the top are spectacular, overlooking the Paloma observatory.  Coming down the mountain was almost as difficult as going up, especially with the snow-covered portions and icy conditions.  Motivation destination was Cork and Craft (Abnormal Brewing) in Rancho Bernardo.  Their burger is in my top five list.