Surprisingly Spectacular Views Along Cuyamaca Trail

Of the more than 100 miles of trail in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in San Diego County, the route offering the most spectacular views is surely the 3-mile Cuyamaca Peak Trail, which climbs through a forest of oak, pine and fir to the summit. From the 6,512-foot peak, the hiker has an open view from the Pacific to the Salton Sea.

Most day hikers are surprised to find such a densely forested mountain in Southern California. Encircling Mt. Cuyamaca are silver fir and cedar, plus Coulter, sugar, ponderosa and Jeffrey pine.

A Barrier to Rain

Digueno Indians called the range “Ah-ha Kwe-ah-mac,” which meant “no rain behind.” The ancients were acute observers, for the Cuyamacas seem to gather all storm clouds around their summits and then ration the rain among themselves. Residents on the desert side of the mountains can only gaze forlornly up at the thunderheads; the Cuyamacas see to it that not one drop falls on the vast sandscape to the east.

The trail, Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road, is a paved one-lane road (closed to public vehicle traffic) that winds slowly to the summit. While this column generally avoids pavement like the plague, an exception has been made for this road; it offers a most enjoyable hike and a memorable view.

Directions to trailhead: From Interstate 5 in Oceanside, take California 78 and head east through Ramona and Santa Ysabel to Julian. Take California 79 south to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. You can also reach the state park by driving east on Interstate 8 from San Diego, then taking California 79 north. California 79 doubles as the main park road. From California 79, about two miles north of park headquarters (where you can purchase a trail map and visit the small park museum), turn west into Paso Picacho Campground/Picnic Area and park in the picnic area. There is a $3 state park day use fee. Please remember that dogs are not allowed on park trails. Join Cuyamaca Peak Trail at the southernmost campsites in Paso Picacho Campground.

The hike: The ascent, shaded by oaks, is moderate at first. Look over your shoulder for a fine view of Stonewall Peak. After passing the junction with the California Riding and Hiking Trail, the route grows steeper. Pine and fir predominate high on the mountain’s shoulders.

Just about the halfway point, the road levels out for a short distance and you’ll spot Deer Spring on the left (south) side of the road. Cool and delicious water gushes from a pipe.

The road passes through an area that was scorched in 1950 and 1970 by severe forest fires. Quite a few tall trees were lost in the blazes. As you near the top, better and better views of Cuyamaca Reservoir and the desert are yours.

The road veers suddenly south, passes junctions with Conejos Trail and Burnt Pine Fire Road, and arrives at the summit.

The peak, located in the exact center of San Diego County, provides quite a panorama. Because of the fire lookout, antennas and trees on top, you’ll have to walk around the peak a bit and get your panoramic view in pieces.

Cuyamaca Peak Trail

Paso Picacho Campground to summit: six miles round trip, 1,600-foot elevation gain.