Join the San Diego Carleton club for an exciting family-friendly hike and learn how a desert-dwelling family lived on Ghost Mountain in Anza-Borrego.

Guided by an expert, will explore Ghost Mountain and visit the ruins of the cabin where Marshall South and his family lived and worked in the 1940's. The family lived under extremely primitive conditions on this remote mountaintop while South wrote popular articles about their life for Desert Magazine. Tales of their interesting lives have circulated for many years, only to be confirmed recently by one of the children who lived there until he was a teenager.

This hike of moderate difficulty will be a bit more strenuous than previous years: a 1-hour hike uphill then back down. This walk is especially interesting for children. There are also 2 other nearby, shorter walks on more flat trails for those who prefer.

We will break for lunch, so please bring something to eat in addition to water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and covered shoes and socks. Since our hike is later in the season this year, it may be hot, be sure to bring extra water.

Sunday, April 15

Meet at 10:00 at the entrance to Blair Valley

Leave at 10:30 promptly for hiking activities

Please R.S.V.P. by April 9 to Candace Kohl ckohl@ucsd.edu or 858-259-1903 so that we will know you are coming.

Directions: There are two possible ways to get to the location.

I-8 EAST to the Ocotillo/ Imperial Highway (S2) exit. Turn LEFT onto S2. Blair Valley is about 35 miles up S2 on the right hand side. Pull off the road and join the group.

Another route, which is faster from northern San Diego areas and may be faster for everyone, is to take Highway 78 EAST through Julian and turn RIGHT on S2. Going this way, Blair Valley is on the left about 5 miles down the road.

Total driving time from San Diego should be a bit over two hours. If you need additional directions contact Candace Kohl (see above). On April 14 and 15 only: 858-353-4395 (cell phone); note this may not work at the hiking location.