Friday, February 13, 2015

Sweetwater Reservoir to Cactus Hill Hike

San Diego Metro KOA
Chula Vista, CA
February 12, 2015




Joe and I recently did a hike at the Sweetwater Reservoir. The trailhead is located inside the park at 3218 Summit Meadow Road, Bonita, CA. There is a campground (water and electric only) here along with a day-use area that includes a splash park, playground, and covered picnic tables with grills.  


To the west, suburban neighborhoods sprawl around more than half of Sweetwater Reservoir.  But to the east is a spread of  green meadows and rounded hills with sage and coastal varieties of cholla and barrel cacti. Information states it is an "in and out" hike, bike, and horse trail...5 miles (total) to the top of Cactus Hill or you can choose an 8 miler (total) to the foot of the San Miguel Mountain.   


A project to re-establish wetlands and eradicate plants not indigenous is in progress with a goal to provide nesting places for the endangered least Bell's vireo.  



























I enjoyed this hike much better than Joe did. I think his exact words were, "It is boring!". For me, it was just great to be outside and walking! 

There is no shade and with temps in the low 80s it would have been hot except that we had a nice breeze...unfortunately if was a head wind going up. Ummm, better exercise? 

Until next time, take care...



and happy trails!

12 comments:

  1. The trail was lined with wildflowers today for us also:) That field with the rainbow of colors is just gorgeous. Beautiful photo, Gay:) Boy, that's a lot of green. It is amazing what a little rain will do.

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    1. It was very green Pam...I tried really hard to capture the wind blowing the grass. It was so pretty! But, my photos didn't really show it...

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  2. Wonderful pictures, outside and walking is what we really miss right now, oh the fresh warm air and sunshine would be so nice.

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    1. Life has other plans for you right now George and Suzie. You will both be in a better place when this challenge is behind you both...

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  3. It is amazing how green San Diego is right now! Those winter rains paired with the hot sunny days has worked wonders. But, boy, it is too hot there for February!

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    1. We sure are enjoying the heck out of it though Lisa...it has been challenging and fun getting our hiking legs back in this beautiful part of out country!

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  4. you always end up with great photos no matter where you go.

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  5. Jeri's right - you take gorgeous pictures.

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  6. I like the meandering composition in that last photo. Sure looked like a lot of birds on that lake.

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    1. There were lots of birds on the lake Judy. I didn't do my homework as the reservoir is only open on Sat., Sun., and Mon. so I couldnt get close :(.

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