Clevenger Canyon-San Pasqual North Trail

As part of my 100 Peak Challenge Reboot, I hiked this peak again. I decided to hike Clevenger Canyon North today as I wanted to see San Pasqual Creek actually flowing, as well as get it summited again before the heat of summer hit. So down the trail, I went.

The graffiti on the rocks near the trailhead has been cleaned up, but I quickly got a taste of how overgrown the trail has become. The wild mustard has exploded all over the hillside making the trail hard to see at times.

The creek was still flowing nicely and was able to cross it with a small hop. The rocks here are unfortunately covered in graffiti. Now the climb up began. The trail is in need of some serious attention. The overgrowth slowed me down as I would push past it. About halfway up I did spot a small rattlesnake along the trail. I encouraged him to move along, once it was far enough away, I continued on.

The breeze kept the temperatures nice, along with the “May Gray”. I reached the viewpoint and snapped a few photos. I then decided to continue northward on the trail to investigate if there was a route to Peak 1820.

This trail wasn’t too bad compared to the mess on the way up. I eventually reached an unreadable sign and turn back. Along the way, I saw enough of a route to weave my way to the actual top of 1820. The views were nice, and since it was Star Wars Day, I needed to check on the availability of the special Lego set. I worked my back down the trail without incident. Although another car had parked at the trailhead, I never saw them.


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. 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *