Garnet Mountain (Peak #19) - A Short Cross-Country Hike from Kwaaymii Point
Garnet Mountain is a lesser-known summit near Kwaaymii Point on the northern edge of the Mount Laguna high country, though actually in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. This hike combines a short cross-country route with expansive views toward Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. As Peak #19 in the San Diego 100 Peaks Challenge, this short outing provided an introduction to off-trail travel while exploring the transition zone between San Diego's pine forests and desert landscapes.
Garnet Mountain
Elevation: ~5,700′
Mileage: .75 miles
Trailhead: Kwaaymii Point
Agency: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Dates Hiked: 10/18/2009, 02/05/2017
Peakbagger.com Page
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10/18/2009
On the same trip as the trip to Garnet Peak, I made a quick side trip up to Garnet Mountain, while the rest of the family waited at the Kwaaymii Point trailhead, which turns out is a hang glider launching point.
The view from Kwaaymii Point
It was a short jog up what looks like a jeep trail.
The old road to Garnet Mountain
After a couple of hundred feet of minor off-trail hiking (not really bushwhacking, since the bushes are low-growing). I was on the peak. I signed the summit register, allowed the breeze to cool me off and drank in the views to the east into Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
Garnet Mountain Summit Register
The view from Garnet Mountain
Garnet Mountain view from 2017
In a couple of minutes I was back down.
