Along the Sunset Trail to Music Mountain

West Mountain Sunset

Music Mountain Sunset Trail

Music Mountain Sunset Trail

West Mountain Top Trail

Today I decided to head back up West Mountain in the overcast dark of the morning. Up the Canyon Trail to the Oak Trail, Up the Oak Trail to the West Mountain Trail. When I reach the mountain top I realize to see any wildlife on West Mountain I will need to wait for cooler weather. I need to hike up when the sun is higher in the sky.

When I reach the top I notice a Trail that heads higher onto the Mountain.  At trails end I find another Mountain overlook and best of all a map of the first section of the Sunset Trail.  It is great to see I can reach Music Mountain from the Sunset Trail.   I stay for a quick look at the view of the airport and the racetrack, I make a mental note to comeback on a clear day to watch and photograph jets/airplanes landing or taking off.

I head out along the Sunset Trail and I quickly notice it is not highly groomed.  It is an up hill climb through changing scenery then downhill, more uphill and down again. My favorite point in the hike is when I reach a trail sign on Music Mountain. It says Sunset Trail <——–>, the trail on the left side is barely visible to the right more visible.  Another mental note to bring gloves on the next hike so I can safely push the Poison Oak/Ivy aside as I hike.  I travel on the right trail and into a dense forest of  Conifers and Deciduous Trees. After a mile I decide to head back  as I realize I will need more water and a snack before I try to tackle the full 10 miles of the Sunset Trail.  Actually 13 if  including the hike up to reach the Trail head.

When I reach the West Mountain Top Trail I continue my journey on the west side to the Canyon Trail.  The Canyon Trail down to Central Avenue and home.  I Love exploring new places in the park!!!

Thank You for hiking with me!
Much Love,
Lee