Since I moved to California in August 2021, the surrounding mountains beckoned to me. To start the year strong, I set off on a solo hike up Volcan Mountain — a quick, but extremely rewarding endeavor. In post-holiday out-of-shape fashion, I found the ascent moderately challenging, but well prepared with snacks, water, and loads of layers, I had a blast the whole way. I passed many a friendly face and felt confident in my safety as a solo hiker.

I ascended on the Volcan Mountain Trail and looped around the Five Oaks Trail on the way down. The Five Oaks Trail seems like a more gradual/varied ascent/descent, but I find that having reached the summit and feeling good, the stunning views this trail had to offer seemed more rewarding on the way down. The Volcan Mountain Trail is a little more of a straight shot up and up until you get close to the top. Both trails have excellent views and are well maintained, so I recommend doing a loop. I came across a patch of snow/ice here and there, as well as a few trees down across the trail, but they presented no major accessibility issues, so overall no major obstacles or safety hazards.

Happy New Year to all. See you out there!