Corte Madera Mountain is a hidden gem in San Diego. It was selected as one of this year's San Diego Six Pack of Peak Challenge, making it a mountain that more and more people visit. It is also nicknamed San Diego's Half Dome because the view from afar resembles the Half Dome of Yosemite National Park.
The first 30-40 minutes of this trail is not very different from other places, but when you turn around, you will be surprised at how beautiful the scenery is standing behind you. The trail begins to change in earnest after 1.5 miles providing a special experience that can only be felt here.
Every time you come out of the narrow, maze hiking trail, you will be overwhelmed by the beautiful scenery that suddenly unfolds. The slopes and flat sections constantly intersect, with the mountains ahead and the scenery behind, mixing. That guarantees the 6.7 mile hike will never be boring. For any hikers, this is the biggest attraction.
The last mile section of the ridge walk is the highlight of the trail. You will admire both the desert and the sea in the distance with the mountains spanning the entire Cleveland National Forest. When you will reach the top of the road, you will be rewarded with undoubtedly, one of the best vistas in the San Diego mountains.
I suddenly felt very small while I was standing at the edge of the cliff and taking pictures. I then finished today's hike being humbled like I always do when I experience the encompassing wonders of nature. That is probably the reason we all visit the mountain every week. I suggest you see this hidden gem for yourself.
Trailhead: Corte Madera TH
Length/Est/ Difficulty: 6.7 mi (4 h +/-) / 1,469 ft / moderate
Corte Madera Mountain | AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/corte-madera-mountain?u=i
Cocktail Hiker
https://www.cocktailhiker.com/
Hiking | Cocktail | Outdoor | Photography