High on a quiet, verdant, grass-strewn ridge, lies a wooden cabin from days gone by. Most of what stands of it today has been defaced over decades under the elements, yet parts, including the outhouse, remain relatively intact. The homestead, historic though it is, is not the most remarkable quality of this trip, as that is reserved to the stunning beauty of the surrounding Palomar Mountains. Perfectly elevated to gain substantial moisture, yet close enough to the coast to remain temperate, the Palomars support a forest of oak and pine as glorious as any in the state. This trip starts in Palomar Mountain State Park, but traverses onto the Cleveland National Forest about mid-way. For those wishing solitude, historic landmarks, and an introduction to southern California forest biomes, this trip should be on your list.
Stats:
Category: Easy
Miles: 5
Elevation Gain: 800'
Location: Palomar Mountain State Park, Cleveland National Forest
Directions: HERE
The Hike: From the Doane Valley Trailhead, walk briefly to the park campground, before heading onto Myers Fire Road, just north of the Campfire Center. The road soon turns dirt as you pass a gate, and then steeply begins ascending the southern flank of the ridge you will culminate the day upon subsequently. The vegetation along the path is a testimony to the unique geographical location of this range as moisture-loving Incense Cedars and Black Oaks grow side-by-side aridity-adapted White Sage and Manzanita. After passing a few springs, the headwaters of Doane Creek, the route makes a sharp bend overlooking fern-strewn French Valley and forested Boucher Hill. Make a tight turn as the road meanders through some old-growth Black Oak woodlands and its thick understory of grasses and native flowers. After continuing about 1.5 miles on this section, the conifers and cedars gather in greater numbers before receding in front of the old homestead. After enjoying your time, return the way you came, and check out what else the underappreciated Palomar Mountain State Park has to offer, such as the Boucher Hill lookout, Doane Pond, and Indian bedrock mortars.
Hiked: 5/31/2017, San Diego County
JMJ
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| Neat the park entrance |
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| 400 Year Old Incence Cedar |
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