Monday Madness – La Mesa Secret Stairs

High Adventure in East County:

When I discovered the Mount Nebo Stair Trails on an obscure page of the La Mesa Web site I knew that a challenge awaited: could I navigate the treacherous trails to the summit without serious incident? I carefully studied the map with its three trails, including the North Face which seemed the greatest challenge.

As it happens, I chose to begin with the North Face, assuming that if I survived, the others might be relatively easier. It was a wise decision, and as I wiped my forehead at the Vista Drive level and pulled a sip from my canteen, I was grateful for the Sherpa shoes and tinted Arctic goggles that protected me from the harsh Winter sun, low in the Southern sky. After catching my breath I determined to walk along Beverly Drive toward the next set of stairs, looking all the while for available real estate.

I observed that lots here are fairly large and off street parking is better than I expected. Few cars were parked on the street at mid-afternoon. I arrived in good health at the East Face and its two stair flights and without excess ceremony I began the climb. I became absorbed in the foliage all around: trees, flowering plants, citrus trees so dense that sunlight doesn’t reach the stairs.

A short break after the first flight and I was tackling the second toward Summit Drive. Something behind distracted me. I glanced back a couple of times and there was nobody there, but something… Well, when I reached Summit I saw what it was. A breathtaking view of the East to Mount San Miguel and beyond! The sight was so stunning I forgot about the stress of the climb.

I followed Summit around toward the final set of stairs. This time I would be descending. As I reached the West side of the mountain I was faced with views of Point Loma, Coronado, downtown San Diego and the glorious ocean. All the while surrounded by fantastic homes where families live with these views every day along with sunrises and sunsets that we can only imagine down in the flatlands.

I needn’t have worried about landslides in this area also known as Windsor Hills. As I carefully worked my way down the final flights of stairs I noticed that there were outcroppings of solid rock all around Mt. Nebo. It seems secure. My adventure took me around several streets as well as up and down the many stairs. In the thin mountain air I found the strength to snap several photos for you. You’ll be happy to know that my reckless charge to ascend untold heights met with no great harm.

I’m sorry to say that there are only one or two prime homes available up the hill and scores that are unavailable. When you see the community, you will understand why nobody leaves this place. It is one reason that La Mesa is the ‘Jewel of the Hills’.

4320 Valle Drive, La Mesa

A peek past the massive gate reveals a secluded hacienda.

7928 Pasadena

Not at the top of the hill, but a good corner property in a good community. Sign says ’sold’ but I can’t find data on the MLS.

I’m not sure what’s up with 4322 Valle Dr- we listed it as a bargain in September and now it’s boarded up and I can’t tell if the listing is active. It’s a lot of work, but worth restoring:

4322 Valle Drive- before & after…

[data from generally reliable sources, please comment on any errors!]