February 18, 2012
Lizard Peak is an easy and scenic hike located roughly 13 miles south of Borrego Springs. It is perfect for beginners who want an introduction to cross country hiking and navigation, or for those who have a few extra hours to kill.
| Peak | Elevation | Topographic Prominence | Summit Coordinates (lat/lon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lizard Peak | 2,860 ft | 680 ft | 33.12048, -116.380856 |
Getting to the trailhead: The most convenient trailhead for Lizard Peak is the Yaqui Wells/Tamarisk Grove campground. From Julian, travel 18 miles on CA-78 E/Banner Road to where Yaqui Pass Road (S3) branches off to the left. Travel a few hundred feet on Yaqui Pass Road, then take a sharp left onto a 2wd dirt road. Park at any of the large dirt campsites along this road. The camping here is free.
Trailhead coordinates (lat/lon): 33.137151, -116.382178
my route up Lizard Peak seen from the north
There are several ways to approach this peak. As long as one aims for the summit, they cant go wrong! I woke up shortly before sunrise at Yaqui Wells Campground (1,460 ft) and simply started walking south, heading across the desert floor and then up a short spur ridge north of Lizard Peak. As the ridge began curving westward, I headed southeast, descending into a small canyon and heading up Lizard's broad north ridge which spit me out onto the summit a few moments later. Apart from the ocassional poke of a yucca or cholla, it was a very pleasant hike.
views from ascent
summit register
view northeast from summit
southwest
north
Rabbit Peak & Villager Peak closeup
view of Yaqui Peak's south ridge
I headed back down the mountain after a short break on the summit, getting back to camp two hours after I had started. It had been a nice relaxing morning hike.
Final Stats
3.1 miles
1,670 ft gain/loss
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