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Trail of the Month: Los Pinos Mountain

This 17-mile trek rises to more than 4,800 feet with prisitne views

By Claire Trageser

Trail of the Month: Los Pinos Mountain

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)

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