5am came around and we made our way out to Warner Springs, a 1-2 hour drive from San Diego. We were en route to make our way to the highest peak in San Diego County, and what a beautiful ride to it seeing the sunrise and mountains. Some things to note is that there were restrooms at the campground and it’s a $10 fee per person. The chain gate is the start of the trail.

The trail was a nice, wide, smooth and well kept fire road. The first two miles from beginning were all uphill – about 1,500 feet gain at least. Once we made it past that, we reached a sign and headed toward the lookout tower.

As we hiked, we smelled fresh pine, large pretty trees surrounding us, and colorful birds. We even spotted some snow as we got to a higher elevation. The views along the way were incredible. We saw a very small airplane flying around the mountain.

Once we got to the tower and soaked up those views, there was a hidden trail that leads to the summit. It was confusing but we found our way from the pink bows hanging on the trees. It was 1/4 mile or so, really short, and we made our way to the rock climb to the top. The ladder to get up there was a little shaky but we made it. Then the tricky part came where you had to get up on the next rock by putting your feet on both sides to climb up, then jumping to the other side once you’re up there, and making it to the actual peak deck. Once I saw the summit sign (just cardboard but still exciting ), I knew I had to get up there for photos with it. A good Samaritan and one of my hiking group buddies helped me get up this rock. There is nowhere to step so a hand is almost needed. Getting down was even trickier! But the 360 views at the top and the feeling I was on the highest hike in the county was the greatest.