Little Cahuilla Mountain’s trailhead sits at a junction for several roads, so I made sure to park carefully. As I set off, I quickly discovered that this trail was quite different from the one I was just on. It was clearly less traveled, and I would have to take care with my navigation. The trail was a bit overgrown, but not to the point of true bushwhacking. Cairns dotted the trail from time to time, and I repaired a few along the way. My route would take me up and down several minor bumps, which gave me some lovely views as I scanned the brush for the trail to continue.
Soon, the steep final push to the summit started. I made it through the manzanita and red shanks and popped out to see the rocky summit before me. I scrambled over the rocks and sat under the shade of a lone tree. A register sat tucked in the rocks. I enjoyed a snack and the vistas. After the break, I began the slog back to the car. Once back at the car, I returned to the trail to collect a pair of jeans and an abandoned backpack. The hike up Little Cahuilla Mountain was 2.47 miles and took 2:01.
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.