A Valentine’s Day in the Mountains

Western Bluebird

Last weekend, on Valentine’s Day, we celebrated with one of our favorite traditions — a morning hike together.

Overlook

We chose the NEECO and Desert View Hike in the Laguna Mountain area in Cleveland National Forest, just outside San Diego. It turned out to be the perfect way to spend a sunny February morning.

Trail View

An Easy and Scenic Loop

White-breasted Nuthatch

The 3.1-mile route is easy in difficulty, making it ideal for a relaxed and unhurried outing.

Trail View

The gentle terrain allowed us to focus on the views, the birds, and simply enjoying the time together without worrying about steep climbs.

Trail View

Clear Skies and Crisp Air

Mountain Chickadee

The sunshine felt especially welcome against the cool mountain air. With blue skies overhead and wide views stretching across the landscape, the trail lived up to its “Desert View” name in the most beautiful way.

Overlook

Nuthatches in the Pines

White-breasted Nuthatch

We started spotting birds almost immediately. A few White-breasted Nuthatches worked their way along tree trunks, moving headfirst down the bark with confidence.

Overlook

Not far away, a few Pygmy Nuthatches traveled together, chattering softly as they hopped through the pines.

Pygmy Nuthatch

Jays and Ravens Making Their Presence Known

California Scrub-jay

A California Scrub-jay appeared along the trail, alert and curious as always. We also heard and then saw a couple of Common Ravens perched overhead, their deep calls carrying across the open spaces.

Common Raven

Bright Spots of Blue

Western Bluebird

Several Western Bluebirds perched in sunny patches, their colors glowing in the morning light.

Trail View

Seeing them against the clear sky felt especially fitting for such a cheerful day.

Trail View

Finches, Towhees, and Titmice

Purple Finch

We were happy to spot a female Purple Finch perched quietly among the branches.

Spotted Towhee

A Spotted Towhee scratched along the ground near the trail, while a few Oak Titmouses moved through the trees with quick, energetic hops.

Oak Titmouse

An Acorn Prize and a Lively Forest

Steller’s Jay

One of the most memorable moments came when we spotted a Steller’s Jay with an acorn firmly held in its beak. It paused briefly in a tree before flying off, likely to stash its prize for later.

Trail View

Throughout the hike, Mountain Chickadees were everywhere, their constant movement and soft calls filling the forest with life.

Mountain Chickadee

A Perfect Way to Celebrate

Overlook

By the time we finished the loop, we felt refreshed and grateful.

Overlook

Spending Valentine’s Day outdoors, surrounded by sunshine, mountain views, and so many wonderful bird sightings, made for a simple but meaningful celebration together.

Ceanothus