Mt. Laguna and a day with no agenda

This weekend decided to let Saturday simply take its course instead of letting it be ruled by to-dos or arbitrary weekend goals (I have a hard time slowing down, so even my weekend adventures end up driven by some kind of metric I impose on myself).

I wandered up to Mt. Laguna, a place I hadn’t been before, to get some fresh air and explore. When I moved from Washington and away from the beautiful Cascade mountains, I was skeptical about San Diego’s ability to fulfill my mountain wanderlust. But over the last year I have really come to love the diversity of terrain that you find in these high desert hills and California forests.

I did some cursory research and decided to start my trek on the Big Laguna trail. My day started relatively early, so I got to enjoy the cool mountain breeze and rolling hills with few other hikers around. After a mile or so I split off onto the Sunset trail for some slightly more vigorous terrain and beautiful views of Lake Laguna from the top of the ridge. The Sunset trail toured me through the forrest, past the Water of the Woods pond, and dropped me at a perfect lunch boulder with 360 degree views of the Cleveland National forest.

I’ve found so much joy in hiking alone this year. Its the most peaceful, grounding, relaxing way spend a day and experience a new place… After you conquer the initial fear of being eaten by a wild animal 🙂