Laguna Mountains, California
	5.58 miles 726 feet 2 hours 50 minutes
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A loop with nice hillside views that returns along a (dry at the time) creek. There weren't many people out here, so it felt secluded. The trail is unfortunately exposed the whole way.

Park at the Pioneer Mail picnic area and cross the highway to get to the Pine Mountain trailhead.

The Pine Mountain trail gains elevation right away.

You quickly have a view of the valley below, along which you'll return via Skyline Drive.

A lot of bushes had acorns this time.

You never quite reach the pines along the top unless you switch to Indian Potrero Road.

The thin trail in the distance is Indian Creek Trail, which you eventually take down to the valley.

The hills were really green and lovely.

The view to the West is endless rolling hills.

The junction at Champagne Pass. You can continue West a bit more to get to a decent lookout spot, if you struggle through some tight bushes. It's an okay place for lunch, though the rocks aren't great for sitting.

Descending into the valley via Indian Creek Trail.

It's not entirely flat along the valley. You still have to get over some lumps.

The creek was dry, but still a nice route.

The grasses had grown in pretty thick. This part seems like it could be trouble when wet and swampy.

Lots of pretty birds in the valley bushes.

Acorns stashed away for the coming winter.

More birds in the picnic parking lot around sunset.