Читать книгу Day & Section Hikes Pacific Crest Trail: Southern California - David Money Harris - Страница 14

2 Morena Butte

SCENERY:

CHILDREN:

DIFFICULTY:

SOLITUDE:

DISTANCE: 8 miles (out-and-back)

ELEVATION GAIN: 1,500'

HIKING TIME: 4 hours

BEST TIMES: October–May

TOM HARRISON MAP: San Diego Backcountry

USFS PCT MAP: Volume 1

OUTSTANDING FEATURES: Views

Morena Butte is an attractive granite outcrop overlooking Lake Morena. This moderate hike follows the PCT from the lake to the flank of the mountain, and then takes a straightforward climber’s path to the summit. Go on a cool clear day to enjoy the panoramic views. The origin of the butte’s name is lost in history. It may come from the Spanish word for “brown” or may honor an early settler of the region.

From the PCT trailhead outside Lake Morena County Park, hike southwest on the PCT to gain the tip of a ridge. The trail meanders through chaparral up the hillside, offering views of the lake as you climb. In 2.8 miles, pass an unmarked trail on the right leading back to the lake. In another 0.2 mile, reach a high point of the trail on the east flank of Morena Butte. Look for a small cairn marking a climber’s trail that leads west 1.0 mile up the butte. The trail is mostly straightforward, but becomes harder to follow near the summit where it crosses slabs of granite. Watch for cairns (piles of rock) marking the route.

Morena Butte has three distinct summits. The trail leads to the first one, which is the highest. The other two summits are also easy to reach and offer their own unique vistas.

On the return, you may consider making a semiloop by taking the unmarked Morena Butte and Ward’s Flat Trail that you passed on the way up. It leads north through a pleasant glen and then joins a road that takes you back along the shore of Lake Morena.

DIRECTIONS From Interstate 8, take Buckman Springs Rd. (Exit 51) south for 5.5 miles, and then turn right on Oak Dr. In 1.7 miles, turn right again onto Lake Morena Dr. Continue 0.8 mile to Lake Morena County Park. Trailhead parking is on the left by the PCT sign at the entrance to the park. Those without annual adventure passes may prefer day-use parking in the park for $3.

PERMIT Forest Adventure Pass or county park day-use fee required.

OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST Lake Morena County Park offers convenient camping.