Hiking -- San Ysidro Trail -- December 9, 2006
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This popular trail heads up the picturesque San Ysidro Canyon along San Ysidro Creek. A little rain between now and then would give us some cascades! The steep, narrow upper canyon is filled with small waterfalls, continuous cascades and pools. We will pass Gateway Rock, a large eroded sandstone wall, and watch the rock climbers ascend (those of you who want to climb, we promise to take lots of pictures!). 

The hike leads to San Ysidro Falls, a beautiful 60-foot waterfall. Moderate difficulty for 1.5 miles. Then, the hiking becomes more challenging, up switchbacks with steeper ascent, crossing a stream and up to the base of San Ysidro Falls. Going up 10 more minutes on a narrow trail, you can get a view of the ocean. Allow two and a half hours overall. Water, hat, sunscreen and hiking boots are recommended. Camera optional! 

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The pictures are not the quality we'd like, but in the absence of a camera, 
Bob used his cell-phone camera. Best we could do.
One of the waterfalls on San Ysidro Creek.
We were joined on this hike by a neighborhood blond Labrador, who met us at the cars and led/followed throughout the trip to San Ysidro Falls. Part-way up, as we greeted a lady walking with her two dogs, it was obvious that "our" dog knew her. She asked if we had heard the story of "Sage" the blond Lab. She lives at a house at the foot of the trail, and often accompanies hikers up and down the trail.



 
 
At one time, apparently a hiker fell into San Ysidro Creek, and when it became obvious he could not swim, Sage jumped in, and pulled him to shore. I have not found the story in the Montecito Journal; maybe a reader can send a copy?

In any case, it was a continuing part of today's conversation that we were accompanied by a genuine hero. As we returned to our cars, Sage hooked up with the next group of hikers starting up the trail...

Here's Elden Dellanina with Sage, at the San Ysidro Waterfall.
More scenery. Big rock outcrops on this trail.
Laura McCormick, trying to keep the scenery from falling on Tom Nilsen.
If this scenery falls, watch out!
Bob Lilley, Sage, and Elden's sleeve.