Warner Springs, Pacific Crest

Leaving Campo behind, I noticed the landscape shift as the trail led me through Lake Morena County Park, a peaceful spot for camping, fishing, and hiking. Its mix of desert, coastal, and mountain habitats made it a wildlife haven. Western bluebirds flitted through the trees, and bald eagles soared overhead. I kept my eyes peeled for bobcats, hoping to glimpse one among the shrubs. I'd also heard striped skunks could appear here, but given their less-than-appealing aroma, I was happy to avoid crossing paths with one.

As the trail continued, it swung beneath Interstate 8 at Boulder Oaks, where the sounds of the highway faded, and the path wound its way toward the Laguna Mountains. The climb began in earnest here, with the air cooling as I gained elevation. Reaching the peak of Mount Laguna, I was greeted by towering Jeffrey pines stretching high into the sky. The small town of Mount Laguna had fewer than 100 residents, but the general store offered a welcome chance to grab some snacks before continuing.

Skirting around Monument and Garnet Peaks, I followed the trail as it briefly ran alongside County Highway S1. Monument Peak opened to sweeping views of the Anza-Borrego Desert, while Garnet Peak stood out with its steep, rocky terrain. There's a separate trail leading up to its summit, short but tough, with loose gravel and a steep incline. The views from the top are said to be incredible, though I chose to keep going as the wind picked up. The path then veered toward Granite Mountain, its rugged slopes dotted with massive boulders.

Eventually, I reached Highway S2, the Great Southern Overland Stage Route, once followed by pioneers heading to California during the Gold Rush. It was humbling to walk in their footsteps, imagining their long, treacherous journey across this arid land. My hike, challenging as it was, felt like a luxury in comparison.

As I neared Warner Springs, I came across Eagle Rock, a stunning natural formation of giant boulders shaped like an eagle. The trail wound through grassy fields and thick groves of oak trees before arriving in town. Warner Springs, originally home to the Cupeno people, saw Spanish missionaries arrive in 1818, and by 1830, the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel was established, still holding services today. Nearby, the Warner Ranch House, built in 1849, served as a way station for emigrants on the Southern Emigrant Trail. The history of the place is heavy, especially the story of Juan Jose Warner, a fur trader turned rancher, and the tragic relocation of the Cupeno people in 1903.