In light of the scorching triple-digit temperatures, two County parks, namely El Capitan County Preserve in Lakeside and Mt. Gower County Preserve in Ramona, will remain closed for the entire month of August.
The trails in these areas are quite challenging and lead to remote locations with minimal shade, making it hazardous during extreme heat conditions. These parks, namely Vallecito and Agua Caliente County Parks, are already closed for the summer season due to the scorching temperatures.
We always try to avoid closing parks, but sometimes, it becomes necessary to prevent heat-related incidents such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
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Brian Albright, the director of the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation, highlighted the reasons behind closing park gates. He emphasized that this measure is taken to minimize health risks and prevent injuries caused by severe weather events. The closure not only benefits the guests but also ensures the safety of the park’s team members, who may be called upon for emergencies.
County Parks and Recreation staff take advantage of the closures to carry out essential maintenance tasks, including trail restoration. These activities are typically carried out during the cooler periods of the day, either in the early morning or evening.
We are committed to enhancing your park experience and ensuring your safety. We are pleased to announce that El Capitan and Mt. Gower County Preserves will reopen in September. We look forward to welcoming you back to these beautiful parks and providing a memorable outdoor adventure.
During August, you have the opportunity to explore over 100 other County parks and preserves. One such park is Waterfront Park, which now boasts a brand-new active recreation area. This exciting addition is available for use every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. So, get out there and enjoy all that these parks have to offer!
If the temperature is scorching hot, it might be a good idea to stay indoors or opt for a virtual tour of some of the most sought-after trails in the county. These virtual tours can give you a glimpse of the scenic beauty of the trails and help you plan your next hiking adventure.
When heading out for a hike, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider the following tips:
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- Let someone know where you will be and when you plan to return.
- Hike with others, never alone.
- Leave your dog at home for difficult hikes. Even “easy” hikes may be too much for your dog when the air or ground are too hot.
- Take plenty of water to stay hydrated. Rangers recommend one liter (about a quart) for every 2 to 3 miles.
- Wear sunscreen, a hat,, and sunglasses.
- Take breaks in the shade, if possible.
- Take a fully charged mobile phone, map, and/or GPS.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, ventilated clothing.
- Bring along a warm jacket if you plan to stay out after dusk.
- Wear sturdy shoes with traction for slippery rocks.
- Follow all posted safety rules.
- Bring ample food, sunscreen to reapply, a flashlight, a first aid kit, a a multi-purpose tool, and a whistle.
- Know your limitations; choose trails that match your level of physical fitness and areas where you are not going to get lost.
