After wrapping up one of my courses the day before, I decided to summit Lookout Mountain. Just a mile past the Paradise Valley Cafe, I pulled into an empty dirt parking area for the Pacific Crest Trail. I grabbed my gear, carefully crossed the highway, and started hiking south along the PCT. I cruised along the well-worn trail, and as I crested a slight rise, the faint cries of some coyotes could be heard. I continued on, checking my route to make sure I did not miss the use trail to the summit. The use trail initially followed a small gully, then left it, and began the steep climb to the summit. The route was well ducked, so I had almost no issues staying on track. From time to time, I repaired a cairn or two and added a couple that might help fellow hikers.
Soon, the summit came into view. The familiar red register can sat tucked near the benchmark, and I added my name. The summit is relatively flat, and the brush is a bit high, so the views are not the best. After a quick snack, I began retracing my route down the mountain.
Once again on the PCT, I got a message that a friend who got a permit to hike the PCT had booked her flight to San Diego! I plan to join her for a few nights on the trail when she sets off. Back at the car, a few other cars had parked. I suspect they were headed north along the PCT. Initially, I planned to have lunch at PVC, but it was too early for me, so I just headed home. That summit was my #54th HPS peak! I logged the hike as 4.0 miles in 2:14, with 927 feet of gain.
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.