Fortuna Mountain Trail -Morning

Service Description

Description for Parents: The Fortuna Mountain Trail offers a more challenging hike, with the reward of spectacular views from the summits. This trail provides an excellent opportunity to teach kids about the geology of the area and the different layers of vegetation they’ll encounter as they climb. Educational Focus: Kids will learn about the various plant communities at different elevations, from chaparral at the base to the more rugged terrain near the summit. We’ll discuss how these ecosystems change with altitude and the importance of elevation in species diversity. Historical Importance: The area around Fortuna Mountain has historical significance for the Kumeyaay, who used these mountains for navigation and as a source of resources. The trail also offers views of the Old Mission Dam, a historic site from the Spanish mission period. 10 Fun Facts: Fortuna Mountain is one of the five peaks in Mission Trails Regional Park. You can see downtown San Diego and the Pacific Ocean from the summit on a clear day. The trail passes by wildflowers that attract native bees and butterflies. The trail is named "Fortuna," which means "fortune" in Spanish. The mountain’s rocky outcrops are home to small mammals like squirrels and rabbits. The summit cairns (rock piles) mark the highest points of the trail. The trail’s steep sections were once part of ancient footpaths used by native peoples. Look out for hawks and falcons that nest in the rocky cliffs. The summit is 1,291 feet above sea level. In spring, you might see colorful blooms of California poppies along the trail.