It's fall and time to head to Palomar Mountain for spectacular views from Boucher Fire Lookout! Summit is over a mile above sea level and the drive is amazing! When clear, you can see from Coronado Islands to Catalina! Adjacent to the picnic area are outcrops of granite that preserve morteros, well-worn mortar holes carved into the stone by natives for the grinding of acorns and seeds. They liked the view too!
The trailhead is a short walk from the Silvercrest parking lot, at the junction of five roads. The trail inclines gently uphill along the ridge of Boucher Hill, taking you through grass, bracken fern and stands of oak with acorns embedded in trees from woodpeckers! After about 3/4 of a mile you'll reach the lookout area, or Boucher Hill scenic drive. This one-way loop begins next to the trailhead.
Carpool from Murrieta Walmart, corner closest to Murrieta Hot Springs Rd and Madison intersection. at 9:00. Otherwise, meet at Palomar Ranger Station entrance at 10:30 (1 hr. 15 min drive from Murrieta). Bring hat, water, and a happy heart! Please sign up only if committed. Afterwards, 1909 in Temecula for bite to eat! Fun day all around!
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