Discovering Spitler Peak Trail

Spitler Peak has been an enigma to us since moving here. It is one of the peaks along the Desert Divide. PCT hikers passed along this string of mountains until July 2013 when the Mountain Fire burned ferociously through the mountains. A huge section of the PCT was totally destroyed.

 We will never forget those scary days! Now 4 1/2 years later, a momentous event took place last week. Spitler Peak Trail which connects with the PCT is now open.Vegetation has had a chance to regrow and dedicated trail teams have worked extremely hard rebuilding the trail! We were told by our hiking buddies that this trail had some of the most beautiful views in the San Jacinto Wilderness.

So a few days ago, we set off on the newly opened trail! It is a little hard to follow in the beginning if you have never been on it but if you head towards the mountain, you will find a well defined trail. With that said, it's always a good idea to bring along your map and compass or GPS.

 Initially,the trail goes through lots of Red Shank (Ribbonwood). Healthy new bushes are growing around blackened branches.

Before long, the trail starts to climb through a mountainside full of boulders.

Quickly, Lake Hemet becomes visible in the distance. 

It was great to see that birds were returning to the area. California Scrub Jays were the most abundant bird. With the successful regrowth of Scrub Oaks, acorn eating birds have a feast on the mountain.

Since we had a late start to our hike, we didn't make it to the peak. I can say that the views became more beautiful the higher we climbed. We definitely plan on returning and reaching the peak next time!

Photos and content by Robin Roberts
Click on Photos to enlarge

Anyone Know a Rain or Snow Dance???

Wow! It is mid November and we havaen't had a drop of rain since August! Before that, it was probably May. With that said, if you have experience as a rain or snow dancer, please come to Idyllwild!

Golden-crowned Sparrow

Although birds are resourceful, they sure could use a little help from us, humans! We have a couple of bird baths that are quite popular especially the one with a dripper.

Pinyon Jays

We live in cowboy country. Imagine grazing cattle in fields of Great Basin Sage. In this vast landscape, you will occasionally find a few "boats" filled with water for the cattle. The birds appreciate them greatly! This HUGE flock of Pinyon Jays descended upon this spot one day when I was passing by.

White-headed Woodpecker

Mountain Chickadee

Pygmy Nuthatch

Here and there, a few faucets drip or a pipe has an unexpected leak where a few precious drops of water fall. Lots of birds are depending on these scarce watering holes to enhance their survival.

Pine Siskin

 You may not want to fill up bird feeders but a dish of clean water especially if it is dripping will be quite appreciated!!! Signed, Birds on the Mountain

Click on photos to enlarge,
Content and photos by Robin Roberts