Hidden Hikes
Deadman Flat Santa Ysabel 1.6-Mile Roundtrip Difficulty: Easy
By Jason Ritter

Photos of deadman flat by Jason Ritter

Don't let the name fool you; Deadman Flat is full of life awaiting your interest. Deer can be found grazing in the wind swirled grasses and turkeys found feeding under the refuge of the abundant majestic oak trees. Within minutes of entering you will find yourself alone in a serene countryside setting that's just pleading for a picnic sitting.

At the beginning of the trailhead the old fire road pitches downward several hundred feet towards Ritchie Creek and a seasonally filled pond. From here it's another mile of hiking through the savanna-like undulating grasses and grand oaks that at times resemble a scene from a Tim Burton film as the azure sky cast high above the San Diego River Valley creeps through the matured branches. The fire road will begin to peak up slightly and the San Diego River Valley will become apparent in from of you. From here the old road turns westerly into the oak abyss that eventually meets back up with Eagle Peak road. The small hill to the east of the road is Cemetery Hill. Charred and decayed timber posts and weathered barbed wire fencing make out a small cemetery plot that at times still display beautiful pink lilies left behind long ago by loved ones.

Access to the Deadman Flat parking and trailhead can be found just off of Eagle Peak road. Via Highway 78 take Pine Hill road 3.0 miles to the intersection of Eagle Peak and Boulder Creek Roads; continue along Eagle Peak Road for approximately 3.6 miles until you come upon a parking pullout on the left side of the road. The trail access will be on the north side of the road near the old gate.

You will see signs of cattle that once, and still may, openly graze this area as well as the occasional hunter so use caution. The 1.6-mile trek should be taken slowly with your eyes keenly enjoying the flora and fauna that waits to be discovered.

For current conditions in the Cleveland National Forest visit: www.fs.fed.us/r5/cleveland/condition

Jason Ritter is a Ramona resident and avid hiker and geocacher. He can be reached at jason.ritter@cox.net