Pacific Crest Trail - Storm Canyon to Kwaaymii

Pacific Crest Trail - Storm Canyon Lookout to Kwaaymii Point

This fantastic day long hike is roughly 11 miles and boasts some of the best views in San Diego. Though the actual trail up to Kwaaymii Point is only .5 miles, the trail itself is both historical (once being home to the Kwaaymii Indian Tribe) and well worth it, featuring live oaks, black oaks and Jeffrey Pines. Panoramic views of the Anza-Borrego Desert to the East, and on a clear day, Mount San Jacinto to the North, reward hikers as they ascend small mountains on a fairly wide-track trail. This provides an extra pillow of safety as travelers can remain far from the drop off without sacrificing viewpoints. Those looking to camp in the area will have great opportunities to star gaze, as lack of lighting provide great views of clear night skies. At nearly 6,000 feet elevation, the incline gain is minimal, though cold and windy weather is common and gusts have been known to get upwards of 60mph.

Many hikers choose to take their lunch break .5 miles before reaching Kwaaymii Point at Pioneer Mail, as a water tank is available. Hikers should be prepared with means of purification as the water needs to be filtered before use. Parking is available on both ends of the trail, though many choose to begin their journey at the Storm Canyon Trailhead along Sunrise Hwy and the PCT.

At a Glance