volcan mountain wilderness preserve

Hiked with a 10 yr old and 13 yr old kids. They whined most of the way up as it was definitely a steep, steady incline. But really, they'd whine no matter what. We ended up making it maybe 1/2 way to the summit and decided to turn back. We were slow moving and running out of water. It was not a disappointment, though, as the views from the ridge where we turned around were stunning. After we made it back down, both kids said they had a great day...well maybe it wasn't until after the slice of pie in town...but overall it was a great hike. Definitely bring lots of water and know there are no restrooms or water sources at this trail-head.

This is a nice, moderate hike in the area right around Julian CA. Great views, the trails are well kept, and you're very close to town and Menghini winery if you need a snack afterwards. Definitely worth your time.

A volunteer trail ranger told us that the San Diego County Parks manage the trails from a distance. This year there was virtually no snow/rain but some expert downtown decided that the final 500 foot hike to the summit cannot open until April 5th. Maybe there are "budgetary issues" but if you are that desperate, charge a use fee and let the public enjoy the "public park." Hiking this time of year means that poison oak (which is a "protected element") may be present without its identifying leaves so beware if you get by any "dry brush." Great view from the top if the gate is open. No restroom facilities within miles.

Park on Farmers Road at the entrance, then walk up to the trail head past the apple trees. There is a bit of elevation gain on this trail; once you start up the main road, the hiker trail diverges. The day we went was warm, so it was good to have a water bottle. The analysis in the trail books as moderately strenuous is accurate, although it is a little over 3 miles. You can continue to the peak but we just came down the road access. I would recommend going back down the trail because the views on the way down would be better.

Really nicely marked an clear trails to follow up and down the mountain. It is at quite a high altitude so we really struggled to catch our breath. It was misty but still lovely to visit while we were there. Occasionally the sun broke through the mist and the views were stunning.

We found out from the Hotel we stayed in, that there were 2 trails to the summit. The first (lower, you make a right off the mail trail at the marker)) trail isn't straight up the hill, like the main trail, but a series of switchbacks to make it a bit easier to get up the mountain. It is still quite a climb to the Summit though. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. The trail has a lot of rocks and loose ground on it. The only really bad thing, was the bugs that kept buzzing around my head. The scenery and views were amazing. Go early! It gets hot!

Bring water and a lunch and enjoy the views from the top. It's a very nice, diverse hike. Difficulty (1-10 scale) is about a 7.

This was gorgeous-a short 4 mile drive from lovely Julian-this place is not to be missed. On our drive over we saw wild turkeys, vibrant fall colors, and vineyards. We felt so far away from San Diego in the best possible way. The preserve opens at 9am. We got there right at the beginning. We thought the trails would be crowded, but we had it all to ourselves until the last ten minutes coming back. Five Oaks Trail is great-you get sweeping views of the vineyards, hills, and farms. There are signs describing the various vegetation. They do warn of the rattlesnakes and mountain lions. Alas, we did not see any of that. Signs also tell of the fires that happened several years ago. Five Oaks Trail does have quite a few switchbacks, but let the views take your mind off of that. There were a few areas with benches. They say to bring water and sunscreen. It wasn't so bad in the fall.

We hiked both Volcan Mountain and the Desert View Trail in William Heise. This one was our favorite though. We took the 5 oaks trail up and the regular trail back down. The 5 oaks trail is nicely shaded and has some good flat spots for you to have a little break. We hiked to the summit and did not regret it. From mid summit to summit was probably the easier part of the hike, though I am sure it would be far too hot in the middle of summer and I think it is closed in the winter, but if it is open, then go for it! Once at the top, the views were simply incredible. The marine layer had rolled in to San Diego, so we could not see the pacific, but we were able to see the desert on the other side. The entrance to the hike is really close to all the wineries in Julian, so I would highly recommend the combo of a morning hike, followed by a wine tasting.

Great location to explore, bring a picnic for the top and eat at the bench provided with great views!

This little mountain trail is a nice diversion from the sleepy town of Julian, located just a 5 minute drive outside of town. The trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels. It has great views of the Julian valley. It is a nice, clean, well maintained trail with information signs along the way. Watch out for rattle snakes though - they are prevalent in all of Souther California trails - and we did indeed see one on the side of the path. We just gave it a respectful distance and kept on our way.A great way to walk off all that pie you just ate! There is even a lookout bench at the top. Bring a bottle of water and a lunch for a relaxing picnic.