A Beautiful Morning in the Laguna Mountains

Dark-eyed Junco

On a sunny March morning, we set out for a peaceful hike on the Sunset and Big Laguna Loop to Big Laguna Lake Trail in the Laguna Mountain area of Cleveland National Forest. This 3.8-mile loop is an easy yet rewarding trail that winds through open meadows, shady pine groves, and past the tranquil waters of Big Laguna Lake.

Trail View

With clear skies and cool mountain air, it was the perfect day to enjoy nature and look for birds along the way.

Overlook

A Flash of Blue at the Start

California Scrub-jay

Not long after starting the hike, we spotted a California Scrub-jay perched on a low branch, its striking blue and gray plumage glowing in the morning light. It called out loudly before flying off into the trees. These birds always bring a little extra energy to the trail with their bold personalities.

Trail View

Tiny Chickadees in the Pines

Mountain Chickadee

As we made our way through a forested section of the trail, we were delighted to find many Mountain Chickadees hopping among the pine branches. Their black-and-white faces and soft calls made them easy to recognize. They moved quickly, searching for insects and seeds among the needles, never staying in one place for too long.

Overlook

Swallows Soaring Above

Violet-green Swallow

Coming into a more open area, we looked up to see a group of Violet-green Swallows soaring effortlessly through the sky. Their iridescent green and purple backs shimmered in the sunlight as they swooped and glided, catching insects in midair. Watching their graceful flight was a highlight of the hike.

Overlook

A Forest Full of Life

Dark-eyed Junco

Further along the trail, we spotted a few Dark-eyed Juncos foraging in the undergrowth. Their crisp black hoods and soft brown bodies blended in well with the fallen leaves. Nearby, a White-breasted Nuthatch crept headfirst down a tree trunk, pausing every few seconds to probe the bark for hidden insects.

White-breasted Nuthatch

Approaching the Lake

Red-winged Blackbird

As we neared Big Laguna Lake, we heard the familiar calls of Red-winged Blackbirds coming from the reeds. Their bright red and yellow wing patches stood out against the tall grass. Out on the water, a few American Coots paddled around, their white beaks contrasting sharply with their dark bodies. The lake was calm, reflecting the deep blue sky above.

American Coot

A Raptor in the Sky

Red-tailed Hawk

While admiring the view, we caught sight of a Red-tailed Hawk soaring overhead. It glided effortlessly, scanning the ground below for prey. After a few wide circles, it disappeared over the treetops, a powerful yet graceful presence in the sky.

Overlook

A Burst of Color on the Trail

Western Bluebird

On our way back, we spotted a few Western Bluebirds perched on a fence, their brilliant blue feathers glowing in the sunlight. They flitted between posts, occasionally dropping to the ground to snatch up insects. Nearby, a group of Acorn Woodpeckers busily worked on storing acorns in a tree, their clown-like faces adding a bit of charm to the scene.

Acorn Woodpecker

A Perfect Spring Hike

Overlook

Our morning on the Sunset and Big Laguna Loop Trail was a wonderful mix of fresh air, stunning landscapes, and lively bird activity.

Trail View

The combination of open meadows, shady woodlands, and a peaceful lake made for an unforgettable hike. As we headed back to the trailhead, we already looked forward to returning to this beautiful mountain escape in the future.

Overlook