Many Trails To Travel, Many Tales To Tell
By Barbara B. Baker, Event & Volunteer Coordinator
 Legend has it that the mustard seed is a naturalized plant introduced from Europe during the early Spanish colonization; the seeds were sown by the Franciscan missionaries as they traveled from one mission to another, forging not only golden trail markers but also a golden pathway to God between the missions. Today we wander these golden highways and experience a vicarious thrill of exploration and discovery as we pass the bright yellow plants along the trails nestled between mule fat, coastal sagebrush, and a host of other plants that we know are somehow both good and bad for us. We are the weekend walkers, the half time hikers, trailblazers of today’s world. We are seeking to escape urban anxieties and head down the pathways of peace.
At least this was the romantic vision I had as I headed down my first trails in the San Dieguito River Park, a 55-mile corridor of Coast to Crest trails in progress that lay between Del Mar and Julian. Although the trails were golden – mustard grows wild – and the scenery was peaceful –deer and waterfalls -- my experience was a little tarnished. The explorer in me has been civilized out by the proximity of other markers, like restaurants, malls, and gas stations. In order to fully enjoy and appreciate the trails, I have come to realize that there are some common sense rules and guidelines. The first guideline would be that common sense just is not that common! I think the journals of early explorers downplayed some of these details.
The number one rule on the trail would be: Double the amount of water you think you’ll need.
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Number two: Bring a light snack. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
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Number three: Fashion is not everything. Even the ugliest hat can prevent sunburn and shoes shouldn’t be to die for. Wear proper shoes. Also wear a fanny pack or backpack.
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Number four: Carry a map and/or a compass even if you think you know where you are. Or will remember names. Or will be able to remember where you started . . .
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Number five: Communicate to someone where you’ll be.
There are other good guidelines for hiking I learned along the way. I didn’t have my camera at the best photo opportunities. I didn’t have my pen and paper when I wanted to record something that was important in the moment. Finally, I didn’t have the gear to keep everything contained and organized. Since I didn’t know how to pace myself I was surprised that I had a good time even though I could’ve used an inhaler and Claritin by the end. I’ll be out on the trails again, wandering with a map, water, a hat, munching on trail mix, and trying to take a memorable picture. The San Dieguito River Park’s trails offer pathways to peace and golden moments. But it’s still up to you to get out there and find your way.
If you have a favorite trail or story please contact me at Barbara@sdrp.org. History isn’t always in the books; sometimes it’s in the stories! Share your history with the San Dieguito River Park.
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