By Declan Desmond
UNION-TRIBUNE
The Cottonwood Creek Falls trail is a hidden gem in the Laguna Mountains near Pine Valley. Just make sure to get to the creek before summer, as the heat dries the waterfalls to a mere trickle.
DETAILS
Take a hike:
Cottonwood Creek Falls Trail, Laguna Mountains
Before you go: Buy an Adventure Pass from the U.S. Forest Service or one of the stores selling them. Passes are $5 for a day or $30 annually. Be sure to pack water and a first-aid kit. Hiking boots highly recommended, as is taking a friend along.
Trailhead: The second turnout on Sunrise Highway, about 1½ miles from Interstate 8.
Trail length: 1.8 miles.
Difficulty: A real workout, steep with some climbing over rock necessary.
The only marker for this inspiring trail is a large paved turnout on the right side of county Route S1, known as the Sunrise Highway. Except for the occasional passing automobile, the stillness and peace of the area set the tone for the hike to come.
If you look down the hill and spot a lone utility pole poking up out of the brush, you’re in the right place. You’ll need to pass it on your way down, but don’t worry – it’ll be the last mark of civilization for quite some time.
Look for the trailhead behind a dirt mound at the north end of the turnout.
The Cottonwood Creek trail isn’t the toughest to traipse, but prepare for an invigorating workout. And be on the lookout for rattlesnakes.
After navigating a steep descent down the chaparral-covered bluff, you’ll find yourself at a pond surrounded by reeds and trees. The sight of water and the greenery of the hills just behind it stand in stark contrast to the desert conditions near the highway.
Take a left turn here. Shortly after the remains of a fallen tree and other shrubbery lies a waterfall – large by San Diego standards – surrounded by towering rock formations.
This is only the beginning. It’s an uphill climb from here, but more waterfalls – each one radically different from the last in size and shape – and stream pools await hikers intrepid enough to continue.
As the path begins its upstream ascent, hikers must clamber over a slight rocky incline. Make sure you’re wearing a good pair of hiking boots, and beware of slippery rocks.
From here, the creek snakes up the mountain, and its natural beauty is an oasis for visitors used to San Diego’s urban sprawl. The pools beneath the waterfalls look good enough to swim in, and the sounds of the trickling water and the croaking frogs make Cottonwood Creek a refreshing backcountry getaway.
At trail’s end atop the cascades, hikers are treated to a stunning view of the ravine below and a chance to rest after the climb. The serenity of the area provides an ideal atmosphere for picnics and nature photography.
If you’re visiting Cottonwood Creek on a hot day, don’t despair. A gentle breeze funnels its way through the canyon, cooling off hot hikers.
After all that legwork, you retrace your steps to get back to the highway. It is this part of the walk on weary legs that can be the hardest part. Be sure to take a deep breath before scaling your way back to the road, and watch for loose dirt and gravel on your way up.
Once back at the turnout, a magnificent view of Pine Valley offers tired explorers a relaxing and scenic end to their day enjoying an East County treasure.