Join Parks and VALOR for Warrior Hike

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Warrior Hike.jpeg

Join County Parks and VALOR Employee Resource Group for the Warrior Hike challenge at El Capitan County Preserve on Saturday, May 25.

“El Cap” is popular among active and retired military personnel. So Parks designed an event in 2015 that could "wow" and challenge them as well as their friends and family. Warrior Hike Challenges now take place twice a year on Memorial Day and Veterans Day weekends. 

By breaking the hike into three levels, participants can choose their own adventure; navigating the length of trail that matches their individual interest and ability. Celebration stations sit at the 1-mile and 3-mile turnaround points. Extreme hikers will push their limits to climb to the summit for a 12-mile trek through the scenic preserve.

BOOT CAMP (Moderate):

Families and beginning hikers will enjoy a quick, 1-mile uphill jaunt to the ridge for a beautiful view of eastern San Diego. This trail is 2 miles round-trip and is open to all ages.

Duration: Approx. 1 hour | Start between 7 and 11 a.m.

RECON (Moderate-Difficult):

Skilled hikers can continue on to the next peak for just over 6 miles round-trip. This hike is best suited for teens and adults in good shape.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours | Start between 7 and 11 a.m.

WARRIOR (Difficult):

This trek is not for the faint of heart or ability; Warriors will hike 12 miles, traversing multiple inclines and declines with several hundred feet of elevation gain and loss. Be like this local Warrior – who has hiked to and from the summit 100+ times!

Duration: Up to 7 hours | Start no later than 9 a.m.

All hikers should bring ample water (1+ gallons for Warriors), and wear sturdy hiking boots. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a walking stick or poles are also recommended.

Healthy refreshments are available at celebration stations, including the staging area at the base of the preserve, located of Wildcat Canyon Road at 13775 Blue Sky Ranch Road in Lakeside. Park staff are always on site and along the trail to answer questions and lead groups.

 The event is free and registration is not required. All ages were welcome.