Today’s adventures were to summit both False Sombrero and Sombrero Peaks. Joining me on these attempts would be Derek Loranger, my friend, and creator of the 100 Peak Challenge. I knew Derek through my work as a user experience designer, but this was the first time we had a chance to actually hike together. Headed out to Anza Borrego today to attempt both False Sombrero and Sombrero Peaks. As we drove through Ramona, we spotted a bald eagle sitting on a fence. Later in Anza Borrego, we encountered a herd of bighorn sheep crossing the road. First time for me.
The dirt road took a little care to get to the trailhead. Derek Loranger and I headed up the boulder-filled wash toward False Sombrero. Along the way, an agave got Derek in the shin.
Once we cleared the boulders, the sandy scree started and my lungs were burning. Susie Kara was right, it was tough. Soon we found ourselves at the saddle and the short push to the summit. Again, the desert views never cease to amaze me.
We signed the register and began working our way down. The sandy section was fun and fast. Then the boulder scrambling began in reverse.
By the time we returned to the car, Sombrero Peak was seeming less likely. We opted to drive over to the trailhead anyway, just to see the road status. Once there, we walked up the trail a bit, then enjoyed a nice beer (Thanks Second Chance Brewery) and the scenery. Once back in civilization, we split a pizza in Wynola. Along the way pointing out various peaks that needed to be done or ones that are now crossed off my list. All in all, another peak summited. 12 to go!
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.