Volcan is a great place to start

Volcan was our plan for day 3 of a 3-day hiking blitz as we had to head home to SoCal. This trail was busier than others (but not too bad) and we can see why it’s popular. The hike starts at the end of a gravel road (you park on Farmer Road and walk to gravel driveway) to the gateway designed by Julian local artist James Hubbell and built by volunteers.

The hike starts up fire road switchbacks before the trail becomes lined with manzanita, oak trees, and conifers. The climb is steady but shaded until you reach the crest where it becomes open fields with no shade until the summit.

Amazing views on either side of the ridge with signs indicating what you are seeing. Even with haze we could see the Salton Sea! After walking around the summit area (and enjoying the views from the bench), we headed down via the Five Oaks Trail (watch for poison oak) which we highly recommend taking on your return.

Weather was good, windy at the top, minimal gnats, no snakes seen.

I would rate this hike as easy (as least for those used to hiking.)