When I first got started offroading in California I was just looking for a place to go near my house to get a feel for my truck. I kept hearing rumors about the trail just east of Chula Vista on Otay Mountain. So I set off to find it. With the "BugEater" still in stock form I headed for the mountain.
It's funny how so few people that live in San Diego don't even know what a gem they have so close to home. There is a lot of history on that mountain. I couldn't believe the views from the top of this mountain. It has a fairly extensive trail system that has a main trail that can be managed by any SUV even if it is 2WD. I fell in love with this place. I visit it often. Some days my work is rough and I don't want to take those stresses home to my family (although I'm not always successful) so I take a little detour and drive to one of the lookouts on Otay to relax for a few minutes before heading home to the family.
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| The view into Mexico |
The history on Otay Mountain includes an old Minuteman site. When the Japanese invaded Pearl Harbor there was a set of bunkers put on Otay that faced the Mexican boarder. Troops were put there to make sure no one tried to come in over the Mexican boarder Mexico.
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| One of Four Bunkers on Otay Mountain |
During hunting season Otay Mountain can be hunted for game as well. I often see deer hunters up there. It is quite a diverse area. The trails range from mild to some more difficult to moderate trails. It's a great area for those trying to learn the ins and outs of off roading.
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| Waiting at the Otay Waterfall |
Below are some general pictures taken from Otay...
