First things first, let me say the first two and a half miles of this trail are a breeze.  Then the fun starts, where you learn why they call it Strawberry Peak. After all, a hike couldn’t make it into the Six Pack of Peaks if it were that easy.

Woke up at 4:30am to drive from San Diego to hit the Redbox Canyon trail before 7:30am. Surprisingly the main lot was full by that time. We made our way across the street and to the right to the entrance. The trail was very easy for the first 2.5 miles and then we approached the fork where it splits to Strawberry Meadows or Strawberry Peak. Tempted to take the easy route, we went up to the Peak.

It was very steep in parts. My heart rate was up there from all the ups and downs – you head upward with all your energy, then you negate that climb with some downhill action. You come across a few peaks – but don’t be fooled- these are not the actual peaks. A good rule of thumb for this trail is just when you think you’ve arrived, you have more mini rock scrambled and another peak to go.

This hike had tons of amazing views along the way. Not only did I stop to catch my breathe from the steep hills, but I took so many photos. Everywhere you look it’s like a scenic painting around you with mountains everywhere. Wow. While there were a couple times we were not certain which path to go on, you can hear voices in these beautiful mountains you’re surrounded by.

We made it to the real peak finally! We enjoyed some strawberries and the unbelievable views – both were very sweet. There was a nice sign to hold for photos too.

As we made our way down, several people had the same questions as we did – is that the peak right there? We told them no, that’s the false peak, but the one or two behind it is the real one.

Overall, I think this was one of my absolute favorite hikes so far in SoCal. And not just for the name. The views were like no other – and as much as I kept wondering when we’d be there (I call it my Strawberry Whine) , it was well worth it.