Pinyon Mountain

After a hearty snack after our summit of Whale Peak, our attention to Pinyon Mountain. There is no trail to the summit, so we surveyed the mountain and consulted our topo map. Once we reached the ridgeline it would be a straightforward push to the top.

We carefully slogged up the steep and rocky slope. The footing took some care between the loose rocks and the cacti. Once the ridgeline was reached, the route across was as straightforward, like we expected. Although there was not a benchmark here, we did sign the register before heading back down.

Rather than completely retracing our steps, we opted to use the route a bit further to the east. This seemed to be a better choice. I would recommend this option for future attempts.

Once back at the car, we drove back into town feeling good having summited two more peaks.


I am an avid peak bagger, sometimes backpacker, and former sea kayaker living in San Diego. In 2019, I became the third person to complete the San Diego 100 Peak Challenge. Not stopping with that accomplishment, I set my sights on the harder San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list, which I completed in 2021. In addition, I have conquered several Six-Pack of Peaks challenges (SoCal, San Diego, Central Coast, and Arizona-Winter). Beyond attempting the San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list a second time, I am looking forward to exploring new summits and new adventures across the southwest. 

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