Looking at Ted’s remaining peaks on the 100 Peak Challenge, we settled on Guatay Mountain. We pulled into the Pine Valley Creek Trailhead, and as we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by the cold. I quickly slipped my fleece on, and Ted debated his layering strategy. Once we were settled, we headed toward the trailhead. After passing through the gate, we followed the trail westward. A few bits of poison oak lined the trail, but it was all avoidable. By the time we reached the left turn at the metal barrier, it was time to shed our layers. The trail now began climbing in earnest and was as rutted as I remembered.
Once at the ridgeline, we again turned westward along the trail and started to hear gunshots off to the south. I assume they were hunting doves or other fowl, given the season and time of day.
The trail continued climbing over several false summits and had some steep rocky sections, just like I remembered. Soon, the real summit came into view, and we were atop it. The day had warmed up nicely, and the skies were clear. Familiar mountains stood all around us. I signed the register, and we snapped photos with the summit sign before heading back down. The descent went quickly, and soon we were back at the car. It was still too early to stop at McKinley’s in Alpine, so we opted to hit Board & Brew in Scripps Ranch. Ted now has 18 remaining peaks for the challenge. With a little luck, maybe by Spring 2026, he can complete it! The hike was 5.7 miles in 2:47, and a nice gain of 1,711 feet. Happily, we were 25 minutes faster than my last time.
I am an avid peak bagger, sometimes backpacker, and former sea kayaker living in San Diego. I am the co-author of Urban Trails: San Diego, coming in Spring 2026!
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 both the Arizona-Winter and Arizona-Summer). I am looking forward to exploring new summits and new adventures across the southwest.