Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Hike #27 Buckman Springs to Lake Morena via PCT

52 Hike Challenge 2016 Adventure Series

10 miles | +1000'





Back on the Pacific Crest Trail! From Cottonwood Creek, the trail here briefly parallels Buckman Springs Road before crossing under a bridge and ascending a chaparral slope. From April through July, this arid landscape comes alive with wildflowers.

A series of switchbacks climb the ridge around mossy boulders, leaving the road behind. Large granite outcroppings along the way offer an idea spot to stop and admire the landscape. Distance views of Hauser Mountain and Lake Morena come and go around every bend.

Soon, the route drops into a shaded oak ravine and and crosses several Jeep roads. After passing through a metal gate, the isolation of this pleasant trail begins to fade. Houses line this stretch of the PCT, which leads to the shoreline of beautiful Lake Morena.

No comments: