Dyar Spring and Juaquapin Creek Loop

A six-mile loop through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park with an elevation gain of about 800 feet. Schad says it's a good area to spot mule deer and coyotes. The rest/snack stop is in a rocky area with shade trees near Dyar Spring. It's a popular hike, and one of my favorites.

Dogs are not allowed on the trails in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

The Dyar Spring Trail runs through grassy meadows where foxtails and other sticky plants can be a nuisance. Don't wear fluffy socks!

Meet at 9:00 AM at the large Sweetwater Parking Area near mile 4.8 on Highway 79 where it crosses the Sweetwater River in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (N 32 54.627 W 116 34.440). Parking is free. Unfortunately, there are no rest room facilities.

SUGGESTED ROUTE from San Diego: Take I-8 east to exit 40 (Highway 79, Descanso, Japatul Vly Rd). Go north on Highway 79 to the parking area. Don't miss the place where Highway 79 makes a left turn!

The nominal starting time is 9:00 AM. At 9:15 AM we will hit the trail. We should return to the parking area between noon and 1:00 PM.

Check your favorite weather page on the Internet. (I like http://www.weather.com.) Wear good hiking shoes and suitable clothing, take water and use sun protection. You might want to take a snack to eat at Dyar Spring. Take a camera if you wish. Call or send E-mail if you have questions.

CONTACT: Philip Erdelsky, cell 619-866-8512, e-mail pje@efgh.com

Cell phone service is spotty and unreliable in this area, and my phone has no service at the trailhead. There is service at some higher elevations.

We've done this hike before, most recently on Sept. 4, 2017. For more information, including some pictures, see https://www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/243287752/

Trail maps are available at http://www.efghmaps.com/parks/cuyamacarancho.htm