A Sunny Start in Mission Trails

Blue Grosbeak (Male)

Last weekend, we decided to enjoy a morning out on the Grasslands Loop Trail in Mission Trails Regional Park in San Diego. This easy 2.1-mile loop winds through open meadows and offers expansive views of the surrounding hills. With clear skies and warm sunshine, it was the perfect weather for a relaxed weekend hike.

Kumeyaay Lake

A Stop at Kumeyaay Lake

Eared Grebes

Before hitting the trail, we made a quick detour to Kumeyaay Lake to do a little birdwatching. The stillness of the morning made for great viewing conditions.

Overlook

We spotted a pair of Eared Grebes gliding across the water and a Common Gallinule tending to a group of tiny chicks. It was a peaceful way to ease into the day.

Common Gallinule with chicks

Birdsong and Bright Feathers

Tree Swallow

As we made our way onto the Grasslands Loop, the morning chorus was in full swing. Tree Swallows swooped gracefully overhead, while Song Sparrows sang from low shrubs.

Song Sparrow

A flash of blue alerted us to a beautiful Western Bluebird perched on a trail marker, soaking up the sun.

Western Bluebird

A Splash of Color

Blue Grosbeak (Female)

Further along the trail, we spotted a pair of Blue Grosbeaks—the male with his brilliant cobalt plumage and the female in more muted tones. They were foraging near the trail, undisturbed by our quiet footsteps. Moments like that are always a treat, especially when the light is just right to catch their colors.

Overlook

Hummingbirds and Flycatchers

Allen’s Hummingbird

Several Allen’s Hummingbirds zipped past us, occasionally pausing at blooming plants.

Anna’s Hummingbird

We also saw an Anna’s Hummingbird hovering nearby, flashing its iridescent throat feathers. An Ash-throated Flycatcher kept watch from a tree branch, its soft calls adding to the lively sounds of the grassland.

Ash-throated Flycatcher

A Mallard and Her Chicks

Mallard with chicks

One of the most heartwarming sights of the day came near the water’s edge, where we saw a Mallard sitting calmly on a sun-warmed rock. Surrounding her were several fluffy chicks, busily pecking around in the shallow mud and underbrush. The chicks stayed close, occasionally waddling up to her before continuing their tiny adventures. It was a peaceful moment full of quiet charm.

Overlook

More Feathered Friends

Brown-headed Cowbird

As we continued, we came across a Brown-headed Cowbird, an European Starling, and a fluttering group of Bushtits moving busily through a cluster of bushes.

Bushtit

A Common Yellowthroat made a quick appearance, darting in and out of the reeds with its distinct mask standing out.

Common Yellowthroat

A Peaceful Path Through the Grasslands

Overlook

The Grasslands Loop lived up to its name, with tall grasses swaying gently in the breeze and the sounds of nature all around. The open views and wide trail made for a relaxing stroll, and the warm weather gave the landscape a golden hue that made everything feel just right.

European Starling

Wrapping Up a Beautiful Morning

Trail View

By the time we reached the end of the loop, we were already talking about when we’d come back. Between the peaceful setting of Kumeyaay Lake and the bird activity along the trail, it had been a morning full of small wonders. The Grasslands Loop is a great reminder of how much beauty can be found in a short and simple hike.

Trail View