Lyons Valley Desert Hike
The Lyons Valley desert hike is one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets.
The family sets out on a Lyons Valley Desert Hike
Deep into January, the rest of the country is usually cloaked in snow. But here in San Diego County, winter is the best time to don a pair of hiking boots and go tramping in the local high desert mountains. One weekend a few years ago, Mark and I hiked with a small group of people to a spot near Lyons Valley. It was a hot and sunny day. So we kept on descending a steep sandy trail in hopes that at the bottom of the canyon there would be a refreshing pool of water in which to dangle our feet.
The Water Was Gone
We knew the watering hole might be dried up. San Diego has suffered from drought for the last few decades. But we kept hiking down, down, down hoping for and envisioning a sparkling pool. Alas, there was only enough water for Mark to dip his hat in and drench his head. It was a perfect illustration of expectation leading to disappointment. Some in the group took it harder than others.
Joe makes some interesting points in a political debate
A Picnic with Beer
We made the best of it. We foundsome nice flat boulders to sit on and enjoying our picnic in the shade of some oaks. And the sky showed mercy by layering up some clouds just under the sun. We chatted while enjoying a cold beer. Then we mentally prepared for the strenuous climb back up to where we had parked the vehicle.
I’ve been playing with the “Color Accent” and “Color Swap” settings on my Canon camera. And I like the shots I snapped along the hike, including the dramatic quality of the clouds.
Enjoy Nature
Hopefully no matter where you are in the world, you will take some time and enjoy your surroundings. It’s a simple recipe for fun: friends and/or family, a beautiful natural area featuring sunshine, endless sky and beautiful fauna, and a picnic to share. For us, it was a day away from stress, a memorable Lyons Valley Desert Hike.
Wildflowers along the trail
Tree branches silhouetted against a dramatic sky
