OOPS! I Almost Forgot Hollenbeck Canyon Trail

San Diego Metro KOA
Chula Vista, CA
January 29, 2016


Our last hike in San Diego was the Hollenbeck Canyon Trail just off Honey Springs Road in Jamul, CA. It is about a 21 mile drive from the KOA. 

This is a popular biking trail as well so there are lots of choices on trails to take and miles to hike. We first did this hike last year and somehow missed a turn that would have taken us on a loop, actually a lollipop loop. This year we were determined, well hoped, we would get it right. And we did!

The trail we hiked was just under 5 miles. It felt good to lace up the hiking boots again. 





The first portion of the trail is an open meadow.




Next comes my favorite...a trail shaded by gigantic oak trees and lined with luscious green grass. Both these sections make up what I refer to as the stick on the lollipop. Nice since you get to do that part twice!

 It's too early for alot of color...just hints of whites and yellows with a dash of purple every now and then.

 The grass was cool to the touch, smelled so fresh, and fun to watch dancing in the breeze.

On our way out, we had time to play. It's been a long while since I have climbed a tree...





The loop is not shady at all. Southern girls "mist" rather than perspire...but not this day! A full blown sweat! We climbed and used some muscles that needed a good workout.




We took our time, drank lots of water and admired the view.

 Until next time, happy days and...

 happy trails!

Heading East...

San Diego Metro KOA
Chula Vista, CA
Dec,'15-Jan.'16

 Today has turned into packing day. The forecast calls for rain and gusty winds beginning Sunday evening with a dip in the temps. We hope to dodge the winds and the snow/ice on the mountain passes leaving San Diego a day early. 

Our stay here has flown by. It is amazing how a couple of months can become memories so quickly. 







We have enjoyed visits with Ronnie, Carol and Cooper. Carol is an awesome cook and we have had the pleasure of joining them for dinner at their home.  

We have been entertained by other visitors as well...and enjoyed lazy days (some of them wrapped up in a blanket) on the patio.

 The Tan Clan has had lots of exercise between visits to the beach every week and playing here. 

 The days the sun decided to show resulted in beautiful skies to the east...the view we have from our front window.

 The Sweetwater River runs beside the KOA. There is a walking/biking trail along the river. 

I stopped on a bike ride to photograph the Willets.

 All of a sudden, a group of birds flew out of the grass...like someone had tossed a bucket of pearly beads into the air...

 which instantly turned into black diamonds.

A marina and restaurant, a sandy sitting area, or Pepper Park offer a spot to catch your breath and rest your legs.  Or you can continue on the trail for a view of the Sweetwater Watershed.

We enjoyed one last get together with Dave, Lynn and Richie (Their home was parked at the Chula Vista RV Resort there.) at the Galley At The Marina. A dinner of "made fresh everyday clam chowder" and the Thursday special of fish and chips. The sunset was showy, the food yummy, and company delightful...our table was the nosiest with lots of laughs! See you all in Tucson...

 Until next time, 

Happy days and happy trails!