Trail of the Month: Los Pinos Mountain
Illustrations by Ashleigh Corrin
Difficulty Level
Challenging, Experienced hikers in peak physical shape
Distance
17 miles round-trip with shorter options available
Good to Know
Dog friendly
Not stroller friendly
$5 parking
Where
Start at the intersection of Buckman Springs Road and Morena Stokes Valley Road. Follow the latter to the Corral Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle Area, where you can take the loop up to the Los Pinos Mountain fire lookout, one of only three in the county that are still actively staffed.
What to Instagram
Views of the Laguna and Cuyamaca Mountains from the fire lookout at the summit
Why We Love It
This lesser-known hike takes you to an elevation of more than 4,800 feet, with beautiful views on a clear day.
Where to Refuel
Get classic breakfasts including the Hungry Man and Garbage Plate or burgers and shakes at ’50s-style Major’s Diner (28870 Old Highway 80, Pine Valley)
