After a morning hike of Viejas Mountain (4,187') near Alpine, I also wanted to visit another summit, so I also had a plan to visit Sycuan Peak (2,801'). Both mountains were on my wish list for a while. I love the high pine/fir forested mountains mountains, but I also love romping in the chaparral on the the lower elevation peaks as well But, the weather this fall has been far too hot (for me at least) to hike them, so after finally getting some cool, seasonable weather after weeks of 80 degree weather in October - December, opportunity knocked, and I answered! I enjoyed Viejas immensely, and was ready to backtrack towards Jamul to visit Sycuan. The trail is an old jeep track, very washed out in spots, and very steep. I took my time, relishing in the views and the rare native endemic plants that live on the gabbroic soil in the area, and made it to the top in about an hour. You will know that you're there when you see a power pole nearby, as a line runs up to just about the summit. The summit is a decent-sized boulder that requires some easy hand-and-foot climbing if you round the road by the power line. If you push through the brush on the direct approach, it is even easier boulder hopping. Sycuan is a fun little hike that will make you earn the summit with its steep climb. Views are absolutely mind blowing on top.