59.05 San Diego/Los Angeles Counties: North and South Fortuna Mountains, an approach from the San Diego River crossing plus a host of other local hike highlights including a very short road trip to SF.

Early summer and the coloring is still good.
Ideal hiking weather as the fog/mist awaits a stronger sun.
The very steep approach to Fortuna South.
The self-satisfied feeling as the end is nigh.
Love the low clouds hanging out in San Diego County.
A tough trail in Whiting Ranch, Lake Forest, near Irvine.
Oh! There goes Jen, the reverse route to the south peak.
On a different day, the approach to Fortuna North from the Clairemont side of the park. We have used 8 different entrances thus far.
North of the tiny town of Lost Hills, (north of Los Angeles), we come across flowing sands...and water.
Scenes of this nature cause nature to resonate strongly for us.
Lost Hills?...hardly.
Never mind the bird, it was the reeds that were fascinating.
On another day, we did the loop but came down the steep section. The third photograph from the top shows Jen climbing Fortuna South. The attraction in this picture is of course the wild life...take it as you see it..
Above the saddle, the rider climbs to Fortuna North peak without the aid of a horse.
Many gems, some hidden, many not. This is Pyramid Dam, Lake and Reservoir...an hour north of Irvine (not on foot or by water).

On the way back, a burst of color.
Jen drinks during the early stages of Cowles Mountain ascent; it was a busy long weekend. Lake Murray sits below.
Downtown San Diego from Fortuna South.
'I am a rock, I am a double.'
Dry rocks on Kwaay Paay Peak, a tongue twister, but not the hike.  

The dam wall of 'The Pyramid' shown earlier.

Why going down can be tricky.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

The 5-day road trip to just north of San Francisco was for a wonderful purpose, nothing to do with hiking, business or recreation. (See below). 

An intimate moment between a grandmother and grandchild (Casey Lazarow), 'love on the grass'. The only thing separating them is 68 years.

Jenni holds Winnie, another true gift and blessing.
This is what happens when they 'defund the police'. Casey leads Pablo with H2O pistols in a lawless (and soaking act) on a helpless, senior citizen.