The Barrel Springs Section of the PCT extends from Barrel Springs (on the Montezuma Valley Road - S22) north through chaparral and open range land. The trail crosses San Ysidro Creek (seasonal flow) and eventually reaches some oak woodland near Cañada Verde Creek. The trail continues north through Warner Springs Ranch crossing Highway 79 south of Warner Springs and ending at a second crossing of Hwy. 79 west of Warner Springs.

Forest maps available at Palomar Ranger District Office located on Black Canyon Road in Ramona.

Directions: From San Diego, CA, Follow Interstate 8 east to Highway 67. Follow Hwy. 67 north to Ramona. Follow Hwy. 78 east to Santa Ysabel and the junction with Hwy. 79. Follow Hwy. 79 north approximately 16 miles to Indian Flats Road (9S05) - about 1.5 mile west of Warner Springs. Drive north approximately 4 miles on this narrow, partially surfaced, partially dirt road along the top of a ridge. As the road turns west it will begin to contour to the south and west of a steep hillside. Within the next 0.25 mile watch for an opportunity to park along the right side of the road. The PCT is reached via a short scramble up the hill as it contours parallel to the road.

Elevation: 2,250 feet

Elevation Gain: 3,350 feet

Distance: 9.9 miles

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

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