Arroyo Seco Circuit Hike
Today's hike is about 9 miles with an elevation gain of approximately 1400 ft. We begin at the East Mesa Trailhead. We head north to Sweetwater parking area and then across Highway 79 to the Monument trail. We climb the Monument Trail to the Arroyo Seco trail which has long and beautiful views. From there we will take the Pine Ridge Trail (also with lovely views) to the Green Valley Campground and then back along the East Side Trail back to the East Mesa Trailhead. There are restrooms at the Sweetwater parking area which is on our route today.
Hike Start Time and Location: East Mesa Trailhead https://maps.app.goo.gl/6GxsGh7HiGdzriRd6
Hike Length: Approx. 9 Miles
Hike Elevation Change: 1400ft
Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderate to challenging for length
Estimated Hike Time: 5-6 hours
Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): Loop
Hiking Trail Details (AllTrails or Similar link): For a very general (the actual route will be several miles longer) overview of the area and expected trail conditions please see this listing for a similar, but shorter, trail in the same area. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/arroyo-seco-west-mesa-fire-road-monument-trail-loop
Hike Specific Challenges (scrambling, narrow passages, allergens): elevation gain and length
Hike Specific Equipment: N/A
Parking Information: No parking pass required to park at the trailhead. Directions: Take SR79 North from I-8. The East Mesa Parking Area/Trailhead is about a half mile past the park entry (beyond the oakzanita parking area and before the Green Valley Campground).
Costs involved: None
Pets Permitted: No
What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: Pack water, a lunch, and a snack
Who to Contact with Questions: Trip Leader Scott Opis
*Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:
1. Navigation
2. Headlamp
3. Sun Protection
4. First Aid
5. Knife
6. Fire
7. Shelter
8. Extra food
9. Extra water
10. Extra clothes
Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement
Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.
