A Sunny Stroll on the PCT

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Last weekend, we decided to explore a short section of the Pacific Crest Trail near Kitchen Creek Road, just outside San Diego, CA. This 2-mile stretch of trail is rated easy, making it a perfect way to enjoy a leisurely morning out in nature. The weather was warm and sunny, setting the tone for a relaxing and rewarding hike.

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Peaceful Start to the Morning

Costa’s Hummingbird

As we set out along the trail, the surrounding landscape opened up into gentle hills dotted with desert shrubs and wildflowers.

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The early sun cast a soft light across the terrain, and we quickly found ourselves soaking in the calm of the morning with just the sound of our footsteps and distant bird calls for company.

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Familiar Faces in the Chaparral

California Scrub-jay

It didn’t take long before we saw our first bird of the hike—a California Scrub-jay hopping confidently through the brush, calling loudly as if to announce our arrival.

Trail View

These bold and curious birds always make an impression with their vivid colors and sharp voices.

Western Whiptail

A Sparrow on the Rocks

Rufous-crowned Sparrow

Not long after, we spotted a Rufous-crowned Sparrow, perched on a rock and singing its signature sweet, trilling song.

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These sparrows are subtle in appearance but delightful to watch as they forage close to the ground, blending beautifully into the chaparral.

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Costa’s in the Sun

Costa’s Hummingbird

As the morning warmed up, we began to see a few Costa’s Hummingbirds zipping from bloom to bloom. Their purple crowns glistened briefly in the light before they darted off again.

Trail View

They added quick flashes of movement to the stillness of the scenery, always a joy to catch in action.

Trail View

A New Sparrow on the List

Black-chinned Sparrow

The real excitement began when we spotted a Black-chinned Sparrow for the first time. Its soft gray body and dark chin patch stood out just enough for us to identify it. It sang a delicate, buzzy song from a shrub and gave us a moment to appreciate a brand-new addition to our life list.

Trail View

Another First: Gray Vireo

Gray Vireo

A few minutes later, we were stunned to spot another lifer—a Gray Vireo! Perched quietly on a low branch, it flitted from shrub to shrub with quick movements, pausing just long enough for us to get a good look. Its muted gray tones and subtle behavior made it easy to overlook, but we were thrilled to see it.

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Two Lifers, One Hike

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Seeing two new birds in one short hike was an unexpected highlight. We paused for a while to talk about it and take in the moment. It reminded us that even short, easy hikes can bring surprises and memories we’ll hold onto for a long time.

Western Fence Lizard

A Trail Worth Revisiting

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As we looped back toward the car, the trail remained quiet and peaceful. The PCT near Kitchen Creek Road might be just a small section of a vast trail system, but it delivered a morning full of discovery and quiet joy.

California Ground Squirrel

We’ll definitely be back to explore more of what this area has to offer.

California Buckwheat