Volcan Mountain

PupsPintsPeaks

May 16

Written by Sandra

Six Pack of Peaks: Volcan Mountain

1/16/22

Out & Back

Miles Hiked: 5.1 miles

Elevation gain: 1,170 ft

Total elevation: 5,353 ft

Pairs well with: Cuyamaca Lager from Nickel Beer Co (Julien, CA) - I was not thinking ahead and ordered the beer named after another mountain on the list, oops.

Trail runners [noun]: a hybrid footwear created when a running shoe was indiscreet with a hiking shoe (a direct cousin of the well-known hiking boot). While variations exist to cater to different tastes, none would be featured in a fashion magazine.

For 2022 we decided I chose for us to partake in the San Diego county version of the peak challenge since we did almost all of the LA county ones. First on the list, Volcan Mountain just outside of the town of Julien.

If this mountain had a single adjective it would be unassuming. The trailhead was directly off a nondescript country road in between two farms. The start was steep enough to show how out of hiking shape we really were. The trail wound around and was leisurely with beautiful views and occasional placards with tidbits of information. All in all, it was very pleasant and challenging enough to feel satisfactory. On a side note: to those who use hiking as a fashion statement, if you aren’t struggling as much as I am, that’s just not effing fair.

Naturally we had to enjoy our celebratory beer and stopped at Nickel Beer Co in Julien. I ordered the Cuyamaca Lager without thinking that maybe I should order the beer named after, oh I don’t know, Volcan Mountain instead. Oops. Well, the beer was fan-beeping-tastic! I had three. Patio was Leinie approved.

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The Places

Mount Elbert

Our faithful trail doggo leads his humans up the tallest peak in Colorado, Mt. Elbert.

Mount Sherman

Our tramily packed up the Yellow Submarine for some camping and hiking fun at altitude. Our goal: summit our first Colorado 14er, Mount Sherman.

Bergen Peak

Our band of heroes is back at it for bagging some six pack peaks. This time Adam is in tow as they tackle the OG six of the Colorado Rockies Six Pack of Peaks.

Piestewa Peak

Our handsome trail doggo has his eyes set on a winter six pack of peaks. The first, Piestowa Peak, doesn’t allow dogs so he lets his humans sweat it out.

Fremont Saddle

Our faithful trio turn their sights to the next peak. Hoping to lick some wounds and gain some confidence back.

The Flatiron

Our heroes get back into the swing of hiking to train for another thru-hike. Go big or go home some say.

Mt. Baldy

After a failed first attempt, our brave trail doggo leads his two humans back up to the hightest, baldest summit in LA country for high altitude gecko hunting.

El Cajon

The last peak of the San Diego challenge awaits. Considered the “toughest hike in San Diego County” does not daunt our fearless trail doggo…or does it?

Hot Springs Mountain

Leinie Trail Dog hits the second of his double peak weekend with the highest point in San Diego County. Will the tired legs be recovered enough for a second peak? Will the weather be kind or treacherous?

High Point - Palomar Mountain

Our fearless trail doggo gets a late start on a double peak weekend. The sun is hot, the trail long, is beer in the future?

Corte Madera

The double peak weekend continues with our fearless trail doggo taking on the “Half Dome of San Diego”, Corte Madera.

Cuyamaca Peak

Our fearless trail doggo heads out on a double peak weekend. First stop, Cuyamaca Peak for some happy hour summiting.

Volcan Mountain

It’s the new year, new six pack of peaks to complete for Leinie Trail Dog. He sets his sights on the San Diego list and starts the year strong with Volcan Mountain.

Mount San Jacinto

After our handsome trail doggo completed his six pack of peaks, his parents thoughtlessly leave him behind on an overnight bonus peak. He rides along in spirit while climbing to his cushion on the couch back at home.

Cucamunga Peak

Leinie Trail Dog is attempting the sixth peak to complete his six-pack. This challenging mountain promises a great payout with an overnight at the summit.

Ontario Peak

Feeling confident after completing the last challenge, Leinie Trail Dog sets out to knock two peaks for the price of one. He learns a valuable lesson that not all peaks like to play nice.

3-2-1 Challenge

Our handsome trail doggo takes on an additional challenge on his quest to complete the pack of peaks. Three peaks in two different counties all in one day. Will he be successful?

Mt. Baden-Powell

The scruffy trail doggo faces his next peak on the Six Pack of Peaks challenge, Mt. Baden-Powell. He faces never ending switchbacks and amazing views.

Sitton Peak

Trail doggo reminisces on the original peak bagging experience where many lessons were learned about mountains, deserts, and planning.

Mt. Wilson

Our trusty Trail Doggo continues his quest to summit the Six Pack of Peaks. Next up is the arduous journey up Mt. Wilson.

Strawberry Peak

Trail doggo begins his quest to complete the six packs of peaks. The first challenge is a peak named so for apparently appearing as its namesake’s fruit upside down.

2022Six Pack of PeaksCaliforniaCA Six

Sandra

Volcan Mountain

More Pack of Peak posts

Nickel Beer Co.

Mount San Jacinto

Pups. Pints. Peaks.