A Gentle Morning at Crestridge

White-crowned Sparrow

We recently spent the morning exploring the Horned Lizard Bypass, Austin’s Trail, and Kid’s Loop in Crestridge Ecological Reserve near San Diego.

Trail View

With a mix of clouds and sunshine overhead, the weather felt just right for a relaxed outing.

Overlook

A Short and Easy Adventure

Purple sage

At only 1.5 miles, this easy loop was perfect for a laid-back hike. The gentle terrain gave us plenty of time to slow down, look around, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the reserve without feeling rushed.

Overlook

Soft Light and Open Views

Red bush monkeyflower

The shifting clouds created a soft, diffused light across the landscape. Patches of sun broke through now and then, brightening the shrubs and open spaces and adding warmth to the cool morning air.

Trail View

Sparrows Along the Trail

White-crowned Sparrow

We began spotting birds early on, including a few White-crowned Sparrows moving through the brush.

Overlook

They stayed low and active, hopping between shrubs and keeping us attentive as we walked.

Trail View

California Thrashers in the Chaparral

California Thrasher

A couple of California Thrashers made an appearance, their long tails and curved bills easy to recognize. Watching them navigate the dense chaparral felt like a classic Southern California birding moment.

Overlook

A Wave of Bushtits

Bushtit

A group of Bushtits swept through the vegetation in a lively cluster. Their quick movements and constant chatter brought energy to the trail and made for a fun stretch of birdwatching.

Overlook

Goldfinches Everywhere

Lesser Goldfinch

We noticed a lot of Lesser Goldfinches during the hike. Their bright flashes of color stood out beautifully whenever the sun peeked through the clouds.

Overlook

A Hawk on Watch

Red-shouldered hawk

One of the highlights was spotting a Red-shouldered hawk perched on a pole, calmly surveying the area.

Trail View

Not long after, we caught sight of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet flitting through nearby branches, rarely holding still for more than a moment.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

A Simple and Happy Outing

Trail View

By the time we completed the loop, we felt refreshed and grateful for such an easy and enjoyable morning outdoors.

Rabbit

Even a short hike like this can deliver wonderful bird sightings and meaningful time together on the trail.

Mission manzanita