Exec Trek at Volcan Mountain offered July 25

Trish Boaz, executive director of the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, invites hikers and nature lovers to join her from 8:30 a.m.-noon July 25 for an Exec Trek at Volcan Mountain in Julian, the headwaters of the San Dieguito River.

The hike — roughly 5 miles, rated “strenuous” — is free. Reservations appreciated.

The Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is home to mixed conifer, oak and cedar forest, native grassland and seasonal ponds. The woodland transitions to desert chaparral on the rugged, drier, east side of the ridge. This extensive montane ecosystem supports many sensitive plant and animal species.

Two trails take visitors to the summit of Volcan Mountain, with sweeping views of Earthquake Valley and the Salton Sea. A clear day may even reveal the ocean beyond the rolling expanse of Santa Ysabel Valley.

The Five Oaks Trail is a beautiful retreat from the main route, with examples of each of the oak species that give the trail its name. The striking entry monument was designed by architect James Hubbell and constructed by dedicated volunteers. Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is accessible from Farmer Road north of Julian. Parking is available on Farmer Road.

Register at: https://form.jotform.us/form/51694636107156. Questions: Email trish@sdrvc.org.

Trail map: https://www.sdrp.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/10.14-Trail-Map-Volcan-Mountain.pdf.

Directions: https://www.sdrp.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Directions-for-The-Coast-to-Crest-Trail-at-Volcan-Mountain.htm.