After a few false starts, I'm happy to finally have commenced my 100-mile journey at my favorite San Diego hiking trail.
The main entrance at Cowles Mountain takes you along a zig-zag 1.25-mile route. The trek ends at a 1,594-foot summit and spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego proper.
With the necessary descent and the lengthy return hobble/walk to my vehicle, I'm estimating three miles contributed to this venerable cause.