Читать книгу Day & Section Hikes Pacific Crest Trail: Southern California онлайн

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Immediately after crossing the creek, leave the trail and turn right onto defunct jeep tracks. Follow the tracks up a steep hill, then alongside a grassy meadow. The tracks improve into a dirt road (not shown on park maps). Pass various side roads as you head northeast on the main road. In 1.3 miles, reach Sunset Highway at a junction with Pine Mountain Trail.

Cross the highway, jog right, and follow a paved road down to Pioneer Mail Trailhead, where you’ll find an outhouse, picnic tables, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. At the trailhead sign, pick up the southbound PCT, which leads below the picnic area before climbing around a hill overlooking Cottonwood Canyon. This side of the highway burned in the Pines Fire in August 2002. The dramatic views down the steep eastern escarpment of the Laguna Mountains into the Anza-Borrego Desert continue to improve as you walk. In 2.6 miles, reach a junction with Garnet Peak Trail.

Majestic oak and pine trees survived the Cedar Fire.

The optional excursion to Garnet Peak is highly recommended. It adds 1.2 miles and 500 feet of elevation gain round-trip. If you choose to make it, turn left and follow Garnet Peak Trail up to the summit; see ssss1 for more details. After enjoying the views, return to the PCT.