Lake Murray -- all the way around!

You can't walk all the way around Lake Murray, unless you go away from the lake and follow nearby streets and a hillside path most of the way. This is what we plan to do. We've done this hike several times before. For information, including some pictures, see www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/297446550

Notice that this hike is on MONDAY. My usual hiking day has been pre-empted by an HOA-mandated termite inspection.

During the hike, we will get a view of all peaks in the Mission Trails FIVE PEAKS CHALLENGE.

We'll meet at 9:30 AM and step off at 9:45 AM from the Lake Murray Concession Stand (N 32 47.100 W 117 2.50).

Then we'll go around the lake on the paved road, like everyone else. But we'll leave the lake at Lake Murray Community Park and head off-pavement and uphill to a little-known path along the hillside with great views of Lake Murray and everything else. See the photograph above. We'll pause there for snacking.

Finally, we'll follow the streets below the dam, passing through a small park and next to an open space preserve, returning to Lake Murray via the Kiowa Drive entrance. The total distance is about 6.3 miles.

Leashed dogs are allowed.

SUGGESTED ROUTE FROM SAN DIEGO: Go east on I-8 and exit at exit 11 (70th Street, Lake Murray Bl). Go north on Lake Murray Blvd. and turn left at the top of the hill into Kiowa Dr. Follow the access road all the way to the large parking area near the concession stand, boat launch ramp and rest rooms.

Check your favorite weather page on the Internet. (I like http://www.weather.com) Hiking shoes are good for the hillside trail, but I usually do this hike in running shoes. Wear suitable clothing, take water and use sun protection. 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 available in this area, although there may be some dead spots.

A GPX track and a map of this hike have been posted on the San Diego Day Hikers file page at www.efgh.com/SDDH.

Notice that this hike is on MONDAY.