A Crisp Morning on the Palomar Observatory Trail

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On a sunny November morning, we set out to hike the Palomar Observatory Trail near Palomar Mountain State Park. Spanning 4.9 miles with moderate difficulty, this trail promised a blend of adventure and tranquility. The air was fresh, the skies clear, and the landscape painted with vibrant fall colors—a perfect day for a hike.

Trail View

A Feast of Fall Colors

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The trail wound through a mix of conifers and deciduous trees, many of which were showing off their autumn brilliance. Shades of gold, orange, and red adorned the foliage, creating a picturesque canopy overhead. The crunch of fallen leaves underfoot added a satisfying rhythm to our journey, reminding us of the season’s beauty.

Trail View

Acorn Woodpeckers in Action

Acorn Woodpecker

As we walked, it didn’t take long to spot the trail’s resident Acorn Woodpeckers. They were busy as ever, stashing acorns into trees in preparation for winter. Their distinctive laughing calls echoed through the forest, adding a lively soundtrack to the peaceful surroundings.

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A Colorful Cast of Birds

Lesser Goldfinch

The bird sightings continued to delight us. We spotted a small group of Lesser Goldfinches flitting among the trees, their yellow feathers glowing in the sunlight. Not far from them, a couple of Purple Finches perched serenely on a branch, their soft plumage blending beautifully with the autumn hues.

Purple Finch

Western Bluebirds and Scrub-jays

Western Bluebird

Further along, a Western Bluebird caught our attention with its brilliant blue wings, a striking contrast against the golden leaves.

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A California Scrub-jay soon followed, hopping confidently between branches while holding an acorn in its beak. Its sharp calls added a touch of excitement to the quiet forest.

California Scrub-jay

A Sparrow Duo

White-crowned Sparrow

Sparrows made several appearances during our hike, each adding their own charm. A White-crowned Sparrow with its crisp black-and-white head markings foraged along the ground, while a Golden-crowned Sparrow, with its subtle yellow crown, flitted among the bushes nearby. Their soft chirps blended harmoniously with the rustling leaves.

Golden-crowned Sparrow

A Warbler’s Delight

Townsend’s Warbler

One of the highlights of the hike was spotting a Townsend’s Warbler. This little bird was busy feasting on a green bug, its bright yellow markings standing out vividly against the greenery. Watching it dart skillfully through the branches was a treat that added a touch of excitement to the trail.

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The Elegant White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Toward the end of the hike, we encountered a White-breasted Nuthatch, moving nimbly along the trunk of a tree. Its sleek movements and distinct call were a fitting reminder of the diverse birdlife we’d encountered throughout the morning.

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Conclusion

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The Palomar Observatory Trail offered us more than just a hike; it was a celebration of autumn’s beauty and the incredible variety of birdlife that calls this area home.

Black Phoebe

The vibrant foliage, crisp air, and abundant wildlife made this November morning unforgettable, leaving us with both cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

California Buckwheat