What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Valley of The Moon and Blue Angels Peak
It is a loop trail popular for hiking and birdwatching near Jacumba, CA. Dogs are allowed but should be on a leash. The best time to visit is between March and October.
Length: 8.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Jacumba Wilderness Happy Camp Loop
Jacumba Wilderness Happy Camp Loop trail is a self-navigable route leading you to a canyon wash. It is an excellent place for experienced backpackers and hikers. There is no shade, but visitors can enjoy great canyon views and wildlife.
Length: 5.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge via Mortero Palms
It is a loop trail great for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. The trail is rocky, with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. Also, there is a historical site for visitors to explore. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. The best time to visit is from September to March.
Length: 5.7 miles
Intensity: Hard
Valley of the Moon Trail
The trail is out and back and starts near Jacumba, with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. It is best for hiking, running, and birdwatching. Also, you can take a short hiking diversion to the Smuggler's Cave.
Length: 7.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing and Boating
Common fishing spots near Jacumba are Lake Morena, which has blue catfish, carp, largemouth bass, and the bluegill, and the Santee Lakes, which is home to channel catfish, common carp, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and lightning trout. You will need a fishing permit to fish in these lakes. At Lake Morena, motorized rental boats can be used for touring or fishing; swimming is not allowed. It is possible to find paddle boats for renting at Santee Lakes, but swimming is prohibited here as well.
Wildlife Viewing
If you love seeing animals in their natural habitat, bring a pair of binoculars to observe kangaroo rats, golden eagles, peninsular bighorn sheep, and the mule deer. Also, bird species available in the area include cactus wren, verdin sparrows, black-throated sparrows, white-winged doves, collared doves, and phainopepla.
Hunting
It is illegal to hunt in the Jacumba Wilderness without a hunting license, and the regulation applies to residents and non-residents. Pay attention to the tagging procedures specific to the California law as you hunt in the wilderness. Animals that you may hunt include the bighorn sheep, wild pigs, elk, and pronghorn sheep.
Shooting
Shooting is permitted and restricted to specific areas in the Jacumba Wilderness. You are required to bring a gun or bow and arrows, and it is prohibited to use glass or clay pigeons for practice. Remove any cartridges or target materials after completing your shooting practice.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a popular off-season activity in this area, and you can use any of the long trails to maximize your ride. For instance, the Valley of The Moon and Blue Angels Peak trail would be a great place to bring a horse. Also, Jacumba Wilderness mostly experiences high temperatures, which makes it necessary to get enough water for you and the horse.
