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We set off at 8 a.m. because even though it was January, it was supposed to get warm. It is NOT safe to hike with dogs when it gets hot. Dogs do not sweat. They pant and they have coats on. The easily become overheated so we are very careful that this does not happen. Please watch the weather for any area that you are planning to hike with your pups.
The trail begins on a flat section and within the first .3 mile comes to a T. We opted to go left at the T so that we would begin in the exposed area while the temperature was still cool and end in the shaded area when it would be much warmer.
For approximately 2 miles you walk on a well-marked trail through a field. It is not uncommon to see a coyote or two so be very careful with your pups.
We stopped to take a water break before turning left to continue on toward the ranch.
The trail dipped down to a deserted ranch. This area is tree lined with Sycamore trees and a chance of some shade. We turned right past the ranch and followed the trees to our right.
We stopped again to get a photo opp on the larger boulders before the ascent.
There are other trails that veer off but we stayed on the main fire road and started our ascent. There was a little shade but it was beginning to get hot.
At the top, we had a nice view of the fields below and of Otay Mountain. There was a bench and a great place to get a water and snack break.
After a little dip, we came to another view spot. Where we grabbed a few more photos but continued on to the shade below. From here, you have approximately 1.5 miles to go back to the cars.
At the bottom of the final descent, we came to a long shady area with a stream that would have been a great cooling spot for the dogs if it had been a wet month. Unfortunately, the shallow water was rather stagnant and uninviting. The live oaks and California sycamore through Hollenbeck canyon make for a super pleasant section of the trail. It was a great final resting spot to let the dogs cool before heading back to the cars.
The final section through the trees was a nice reminder as to why we decided to take the trail “backwards” and end in the shade. As we left the trees for our final .3 miles back to the car, it was a very warm January day.
We warned the people just leaving on the trail that is was rather hot for the dogs.
The entire loop is 5.8 miles and it is recommended to do in the cool months of the winter. If you would like to join us on our next hike, you can sign up on our website!
