52 Hike Challenge 2016 Adventure Series
12.5 miles | +2660'
Cradled deep in the belly of Fred Canyon is the secluded
Cibbets Flat Campground, which is often used by PCT thru hikers on their few
days on the trail. Fred Canyon Road skirts the campground, ascending a half
mile before reaching the intersection with the PCT.
It was here where our hike began, after dropping off another
vehicle at our end point at Burnt Ranchita Campground. Making our way north,
sage covered hills roll away from us and multiple twist and turns give way to
views of Morena Butte to the south. As the trail drops into Long Canyon the
arid landscape gives way to an oak shaded area along a creek.
As the route climbs higher it becomes more exposed, with
slopes of yucca, chamise, and manzanita. After several more switchbacks the
trail parallels Thing Valley Road. The scenery begins to transform once again
as piñon pine and black oaks abound in this area, adding lushness and shade as
the trail ascends. Echoing high above is the sound of woodpeckers chiseling
holes into the trunks of Jeffrey pines.
Eventually the trail merges with the Desert View Trail,
which makes a loop around Burnt Ranchita Campground. The gradual climb follows
a ridge lined with prickly pear cactus and chaparral. Here, hikers are treated
to spectacular views of neighboring canyons and the Anza-Borrego Desert below.
After lunch and taking in the sights, we loop back into the Desert View Trail
where it splits away from the PCT. Our final stretch descends through thick
forest along a pine-needled path, finally returning to the campground where we
parked early that morning.
In the late 1800's, cattlemen invaded the Laguna Mountains,
which were inhabited by the Kumeyaay Native Americans. In protest, the natives
burnt the ranch house; hence the name Burnt Ranchita. Today the area is a
popular campground for families.
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