As the crisp fall air settles in and Halloween approaches, Eco Rangers is gearing up for a spook-tacular October filled with adventurous hikes and local legends! This month, we’re taking young explorers on an exciting journey through some of San Diego’s most scenic trails—but with a twist. Each hike comes with its own ghostly tale, mixing the beauty of nature with a little mystery and spooky folklore.
Plus, to make things even more fun, kids are encouraged to hike in costume all month long! Whether they’re dressed as superheroes, ghosts, or explorers, they’ll be immersed in the thrilling stories that await on every trail.
Here’s a sneak peek at our spooky October hiking schedule and the eerie tales that go along with each adventure.
Week 1: The Haunted Rock Hike at Mt. Woodson
Date: October 7, 2024
Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
Trail Distance: 4 miles
Meeting Point:
Google Maps Link: Mt. Woodson Trailhead, Lake Poway, CA
Our first adventure kicks off with a hike to the famous Potato Chip Rock, a natural rock formation that balances impossibly on the edge of a cliff. While the spot is perfect for epic photos, this trail has a darker side—some say it’s haunted!
Legend has it that hikers on Mt. Woodson have reported seeing strange shadows and hearing mysterious whispers in the wind. Could it be the spirits of those who’ve come before us, or is it just the wind playing tricks on our imaginations? As we climb higher, kids will also learn about the fascinating geology of the area and how these unique rock formations were shaped over thousands of years. But keep an eye out—those shadows might be closer than you think!
Week 2: The Phantom’s Path at Iron Mountain
Date: October 14, 2024
Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
Trail Distance: 6 miles
Meeting Point:
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QnroxJP8MJkABQ7C6
Iron Mountain is rugged, wild, and teeming with legends. One of the most spine-chilling stories is that of a phantom prospector, an old miner who roams the mountain to this day, searching for his lost treasure. Some say he appears just before sunset, a shadowy figure with a glint of gold dust in his pockets.
On this hike, we’ll be on the lookout for phantom sightings while we explore the breathtaking views of Iron Mountain. Along the way, we’ll discover the native plants and animals that thrive here, and learn how they’ve adapted to the rugged terrain. But don't forget—the phantom might still be lurking in the rocks, waiting for someone to help him find his lost fortune!
Week 3: The Cursed Canyon at Los Peñasquitos
Date: October 21, 2024
Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
Trail Distance: 5 miles
Meeting Point: Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/ZbZikdPBqMUrkWbt8
In Los Peñasquitos Canyon, beauty and mystery intertwine. On this hike, we’ll journey through the scenic canyon, passing by tranquil streams and majestic waterfalls—but beware! Ghostly cries are said to echo through the canyon at dusk, especially near the waterfall.
Are the cries of lost souls still wandering the canyon, or are they simply the sounds of the wind and water combining in eerie harmony? As we hike, we’ll also uncover the secrets of this unique ecosystem, learning about the native flora and fauna that call this canyon home. Will we hear the eerie echoes, or will we just discover the natural wonders hidden in the landscape?
Week 4: The Ghosts of Goodan Ranch
Date: October 28, 2024
Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
Trail Distance: 4 miles
Meeting Point:
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MWTxGNfucc64Gzqg7
Our final hike of the month takes us to Goodan Ranch, where history and haunting stories collide. The ranch, now in ruins, is said to be haunted by the ghosts of ranch hands who worked the land long ago. Some say you can still hear the sound of hooves clattering along the old paths or catch glimpses of shadowy figures working the fields.
As we explore the remains of the ranch, we’ll travel back in time to learn about the history of the settlers who once lived here and the impact of ranching on the local environment. But be prepared—those old ranch hands might just be keeping an eye on us as we wander through the past!
Costume Fun & Hiking Essentials
To make these hikes even more memorable, kids are invited to wear their favorite Halloween costumes! Imagine hiking through a canyon dressed as a superhero or climbing to the top of a haunted mountain as a brave explorer. It’s all part of the fun as we mix spooky tales with real-world learning.
Of course, don’t forget the essentials:
Water
Snacks
Sunscreen
Sturdy shoes
A light jacket for those cooler morning hikes
The Stories Behind the Tales
All the spooky tales shared on our October hikes are based on local legends and folklore. Whether it’s haunted rocks, phantom miners, or ghostly ranch hands, each story connects to the rich history of the trails we explore. These legends have been passed down through generations, and they offer a fun way for kids (and parents) to engage with the history and environment of our region.
While we might get a few chills from these tales, they’re also a great way to spark kids' imaginations and help them appreciate the natural world around them.
Our Spooky October Hikes with Eco Rangers are the perfect way to celebrate the season, blending nature education with thrilling folklore. These hikes will inspire your little ones to explore the outdoors, learn local history, and make memories that will last long after Halloween has passed. Plus, they’ll have plenty of spooky stories to share at school!
Don’t wait to sign up—RSVP now to reserve your child’s spot on these popular hikes. Let’s make this October an adventure to remember!
See you on the trails
(if the ghosts don’t see us first!).
The Eco Rangers Team