Parks and Rec

This Hike Happens Only Once in a Blue Moon

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You love nature! You’d love to go hiking, to answer the call of the wild and get outside — but you only the get the chance once in a blue moon.

No problem! San Diego County’s Department of Parks and Recreation has just the hike for you — a free Sunset-Blue Moon hike at the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve July 31.

All you really need is a flashlight, water and a sense of adventure to enjoy a great hike on Five Oaks Trail, following your guide two miles to the summit for awesome views of Julian at sunset before making your way back under a shimmering blue moon. (Which is not actually blue, by the way. That’s just the nickname for the second of two full moons in one calendar month.)

The hike is scheduled to begin at 6:45 Friday night. Hikers should park along Hubbel Gate, which is located about 300 feet up the gravel road from the preserve’s parking lot on Farmer Road, just north of the Wynola Road intersection.

People should wear sturdy hiking shoes with comfortable socks, dress in layers because the temperature can drop dramatically once the sun sets, and bring water and a snack if they’d like one.

Park attendant Bill Augustus will be your guide and share anecdotes about the history and geography of the area.

So, get out for once in a blue moon — you’ll love it!

This event can be canceled if the weather turns bad. For more information, call (760) 765-4098.

Editor’s Note: Parking for the event is limited to 60 spaces along Farmer Road, only. Carpooling is encouraged!