Surprisingly pretty hike up Cuyamaca

I opted to take the Azalea Glen Loop option up the hill. It was a great choice. The trail was shaded almost the entire way (from a 6am start). It ran along the creek and through wildflowers. I highly recommend this option. The last bit up and the whole way down was on the fire road. It was efficient. You’re walking on pavement and exposed the whole way, though.