North Fortuna Mountain Summit - Peak #11
Fortuna Mountain, also known as North Fortuna Mountain, is one of the highest and most recognizable summits in Mission Trails Regional Park. Beginning in Oak Canyon near Old Mission Dam, the route climbs through oak woodland and seasonal creek crossings before reaching the saddle between the two peaks. As Peak #11 in the San Diego 100 Peaks Challenge, the outing combined expansive views, varied terrain, and a rewarding summit in one of San Diego's most popular urban wilderness areas.
The Old Mission Dam, built in 1813-1816
North Fortuna Mountain
Elevation: 1,291’
Mileage: 5.5 Miles (with South Fortuna Mountain)
Agency: Mission Trails Regional Park
Dates Hiked: 09/15/2009, 03/26/2017
Trailhead
Peakbagger.com page
For those interested, here is a list of my gear that I have found works well for me. This is, of course, an affiliate link and your enjoyment of these may vary:
This summit is part of the Mission Trails Regional Park’s 5-Peak Challenge. The five peaks in the challenge are:
(North) Fortuna Mountain
09/15/2009
I started the day wanting to take it easy. My back was still a little stiff and sore from the injury and I didn't want to overdo it. I drove to Mission Trails Regional Park and parked at the Old Mission Dam area and began my hike.
The trail followed a seasonal stream bed (now dry) and crossed in and out of the shade of oak trees. I came upon this bent tree and was fascinated by its shape.
I meandered through the canyon until I reached a service road that ran straight up the side of the mountain to a saddle in between North and South Fortuna Mountains. It was getting hotter, but, once I reached the saddle, the cool air from the ocean breeze washed over me.
Oak Canyon Creek on the way to North Fortuna, flowing well in 2017
I then scrambled up to the North Fortuna Summit and could see the South Fortuna Summit, just on the other side of the saddle. My back felt pretty good, and I was most of the way there, so I decided to run back down to the saddle and up the other side.
Sophia at the top of North Fortuna in 2017
El Cajon Mountain and Cuyamaca Peak in the distance
