Beginning in January 2012, I've been organizing and leading some local hikes. My goal was to not only get out on the trail with some friends of A16 and the Great Outdoors, but to also chip away at some of the trails featured in Jerry Schad's Afoot and Afield San Diego County.

   In January, we did Cowles Mtn East approach.  

 In February, we hiked Iron Mountain. We all had a super fun time together! 

In April we hiked the Conejo Creek Trail at the El Capitan Reservoir. 

I had never done the Conejo Creek hike before and didn't realize we were in for a real adventure! First off, there was an $8 day use fee, which was unexpected. When I parked my car, there were 3 other guys there waiting and the ranger came up to greet us. She wanted to make sure we "brought a towel" and were prepared to "rent a boat" to cross two wide creek passes due to high water lines. Yikes! 

At this point, a car of 5 older ladies showed up and we gave them the update. We were all prepared to turn around and go home but decided to go check out the water line and see if it was passable. After some super soggy, sandy boots and bottoms, we all did it and decided to continue on! It ended up being a wonderful hike, bush-whacking the old plume trail. We developed some serious comradery and felt very accomplished by the end. Several of the customers were sharing their favorite A16 stories including Tanner's depth of climbing knowledge and Danielle's awesome recovery of a bleach-stained Icebreaker via tie-dye! 

I hope you can join one of my next adventures! 

See you on the trail!
Laurel