hot sun, cool shade, high point and rich diversity, great views and trees.  The bugs enjoy the shade too, so glad I had my buff (and lots of H2O)

kwíñill same word of the Cahuilla people for black-oak tree and acorn.

“We treated it with respect. What does that mean? That means you don’t overuse it.”

“In much older times, for example, Native Americans across California took care of the oak trees' health by burning the areas under the oaks. The fires cleaned out the dead leaves and other plants, destroying the wormy bug pests that could kill the trees and ruin their acorns. The ashes left behind became a natural plant food that promoted growth.  In turn, the oaks have taken care of the people. The oak offers gifts, especially acorns. In Inland Southern California, the most desired acorns come from the black oak, Quercus kelloggii.  This rich food not only helps the people survive; it makes sure that you live well. Good fats, carbs, and protein are all in one acorn, all for the picking.  “A Relationship with Acorns” Dorothy Ramon Learning Center

San Diego is the most biologically rich county in the US. San Diego County features the largest number of Tribes and Reservations of any county in the United States. With approximately 25,000 acres of tribal land, Los Coyotes Reservation is the largest reservation in San Diego County. At 6,533ft, Hot Springs Mountain is the highest point in San Diego Country. While the peak is located within the reservation, the Los Coyotes Tribe allows visitors to hike from their campgrounds to the top. On the way in to the trailhead and on the 10 mile hike, I saw Live Oak, Black Oak, Coulter Pine, Jeffrey Pine, Sugar Pine, White Fir, Wild Flowers, Mule Deer, Wild Turkey, Ground Squirrel, Hawks, Eagles, Turkey Vulture and Coyotes.