Take a hike!

The amount of rain we’ve had lately combined with holiday busyness (and getting sick twice) means I haven’t been outdoors too often lately. But it’s a new year, and a lot of people start that with physical health goals. So, today I have a roundup of a few places to walk in La Mesa when the sun is back again. 

1. Lake Murray – So popular is this lake, which sits between the city of San Diego and La Mesa, that thousands signed a petition to keep it open on weekdays when San Diego was scrambling for ways to cut its budget. There isn’t too much shade, so spring is the perfect time to walk around the water. It’s also flatter than other trails on this list. Note that part of the lake is blocked off, so you can’t do a full loop, you’ll only be able to walk one side or the other. Mission Trails is nearby and also has tons of trails. 
2. Secret stairs – La Mesa is one of the few spots in San Diego County with a public stairway system! This urban trail meanders through a La Mesa neighborhood in a not-so-secret route through Mount Nebo (the secret might be that it’s really easy to get lost when looking for each staircase). The city of La Mesa explains the route people take to ascend all 489 stairs. 
3. Mt. Helix – This is a steep one, but with fewer places to park after biking and safety improvements, walking has become the best way to get to the top of Mt. Helix to watch the sunset. Park near San Miguel Fire Station. Fitness buffs also can use the amphitheater for workouts. 
   
   Bonus: Engagement producer Tessa Balc recommends East County peeps head to Dead Horse Falls Trail in Descanso this weekend because recent rain means there are most likely waterfalls.