A Sunny Start in Rancho Cuyamaca

Overlook

Last weekend, we spent a beautiful December morning hiking the Azalea Glen Trail to the Moteros Trail in Rancho Cuyamaca State Park.

Trail View

The 2.9-mile route was easy and relaxing, making it perfect for a laid-back weekend outing. Clear skies and crisp mountain air set a cheerful tone right from the start.

Trail View

Quiet Trails and Winter Light

Golden-crowned Sparrow

The trail was peaceful, with sunlight filtering through oaks and pines as we walked.

Overlook

The calm surroundings made it easy to slow our pace and enjoy the gentle sounds of nature all around us. It felt like an ideal place to unwind and enjoy being outdoors together.

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A Splash of Color from Purple Finches

Purple Finch

Early on, we spotted a few Purple Finches perched in the trees.

Trail View

Their subtle coloring stood out nicely against the winter landscape, and they lingered just long enough for us to get a good look before moving on.

Purple Finch

Busy White-breasted Nuthatches

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatches were everywhere along the trail. We watched them scamper up and down tree trunks, often headfirst, calling out as they searched for food. Their constant movement added life and energy to the forest.

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Towhees and Sparrows Along the Path

Spotted Towhee

A Spotted Towhee appeared near the trail, scratching through the leaf litter with purpose.

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Not long after, we came across a small group of Golden-crowned Sparrows, quietly foraging together and blending beautifully into the surroundings.

Golden-crowned Sparrow

Bushtits on the Move

Bushtit

A group of Bushtits swept through the brush in a coordinated wave, hopping rapidly from branch to branch. Their quick movements and soft chatter made them easy to hear before we even saw them.

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Woodpeckers and Jays Everywhere

Acorn Woodpecker

Many Acorn Woodpeckers were hard at work throughout the hike, calling loudly and flying between trees.

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We also saw a few California Scrub-jays, alert and curious, keeping an eye on us as we passed through their territory.

California Scrub-jay

Eyes to the Sky

Red-tailed Hawk

Looking up, we were treated to the sight of a Red-tailed Hawk soaring overhead. It circled effortlessly against the blue sky, a striking moment that felt like a highlight of the hike.

Trail View

A Perfect Easygoing Morning

Overlook

By the time we finished the trail, we felt refreshed and grateful for such a calm and bird-filled morning.

Overlook

The combination of sunny weather, gentle trails, and memorable wildlife made this hike a wonderful way to spend a December weekend together.

Snowberry