El Cajon Mountain Trail is an 11-mile out-and-back trail to the top of El Cajon Mountain within eastern San Diego County. This is a strenuous trek with endless ups-and-downs across rugged and rocky terrain. Your quads will be tested but the stunning views will keep you motivated.
El Cajon Mountain (3,468') is located in the El Capitan County Preserve, and the trail to the top involves just over 3,500 feet of elevation gain, making it one of the toughest climbs in San Diego County. While most mountain trails go up and down, this one rises and falls so much that even the descent can seem like a climb. But looking out from the summit makes it all worthwhile featuring some of the best views overlooking San Diego.
VEGETATION
There is a variety of vegetation along the trail including woodlands, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral such as white sage, black sage, California sagebrush, laurel sumac, flat-top buckwheat, chamise and the rare endemic San Diego golden star.
WHEN TO VISIT
This trail is ideal in the winter, fall, and spring when the temperatures are less extreme. It is not recommended for hiking in the summer and El Capitan County Preserve is actually closed in the month of August due to extreme heat.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION
The trailhead is located off of Wildcat Canyon Road within El Capitan County Preseve. The address for the trailhead is: 13775 Blue Sky Ranch Road, Lakeside, CA 92040.
The park (and parking area) is open from 8:00am - Sunset daily.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
El Capitan County Preserve Park: 1-(619) 561-0580
El Capitan County Preserve
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