After driving to Dripping Springs Campground, we'll begin our out-and-back trek up Dripping Springs Trail, with vistas of the Temecula Valley and Vail Lake. The often shaded trail is in great condition, making a brisk pace easy to maintain. The return trip will showcase even better vistas! This is a strenuous outing, mainly due to mileage and elevation gain. It should take 7-8 hours. An optional short off-trail hike to summit Agua Tibia Mountain, which requires some bushwhacking, will be offered as an alternative to an hour-long relaxing lunch break. This adds 2 miles and 400' of elevation change.
After overnighting and enjoying a campfire at a pleasant campground with toilets and picnic tables, we will drive across the street to Vail Lake resort and hike a 5-mile loop with views of Vail Lake. Dripping Springs Info: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/agua-tibia-mountain-via-dripping-springs-trail Vail Lake Info: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/vail-lake-loop (we will hike a shorter version of this loop)
Special Outing Requirements: Fitness and endurance! Daypack, preferably with waist belt for support, trekking poles and headlamp are recommended. An Adventure Pass or National Parks Pass is required for some of the vehicles ($5 per day or annual pass) and $5 to leader for campground fees.
Water Requirements: 4 liters of water for Day 1. 2 liters for Day 2. |