San Diego North County is home to some of the best hiking trails in California. Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a challenging hike, here some of our favorite hikes in North County San Diego:
Annie’s Canyon Trail
Annie’s Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in north San Diego County. The 3.5-kilometer loop trail takes you through an interesting slot canyon in Solana Beach, California.
Aside from the few elevation changes through the canyon, Annie’s Canyon is generally considered an easy trail perfect for families with kids.
The trail will take an average of one hour to complete and is open throughout the year.
Double Peak Trail
If you’re looking for a hike with incredible views, the Double Peak Trail is worth checking out.
Double Peak Trail is a moderately challenging loop trail with a steep and rocky incline. The trailhead is located at the nearby Discover Lake, and the trail itself is 6.4 kilometers long.
It takes you up Double Peak Park in San Marcos – and the view of the surrounding areas from the peak is simply stunning.
The place is also surprisingly mobility friendly. While people with mobility issues are advised to ask for assistance in the steeper sections of the trail, most trail goers using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers choose to take the road to the top of the hill instead.
Alternatively, non-hikers (and those who aren’t fans of sweating, blisters, and wheezing uphill) can “cheat” by driving to the top of the hill and parking your car there to enjoy the view.
Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
Another popular place for North Country hikes is Elfin Forest Recreation Reserve. With 11 miles of hiking trails to explore, this reserve is a nature lover’s paradise. It has five of the best hiking trails north San Diego County, including the following:
- Elfin Forest Loop. This 7.6-kilometer trail near Escondido, California, is a favorite among mountain bikers for its varied terrains.
- Equine Incline Loop . Locally known as the “Equine Incline Mountain Biking Trail,” this single-track trail is about 4×6 feet wide and makes for an easy ride. It can get fairly steep and rocky for brief periods, but these areas give bikers a chance to practice controlling cadence and power application.
- Harmony Grove Overlook. This popular hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great workout for all levels of hikers.
- Lake Hodges Overlook Trail . This moderately challenging trail offers stunning views of Lake Hodges and is a popular area for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. It’s also dog friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
- Way Up Trail. The family-favorite Way Up Trail is touted as one of the best hikes in North County San Diego for children. Kids will enjoy seeing the interesting animal and nature displays at the Interpretive Center located at the trailhead.
North San Diego hiking trails are minutes away from your dream home
With its many trails and scenic views, North San Diego County is a perfect place for hikers and nature lovers. Let Jacobo Realty Group show you the best property listings in North San Diego. Call us today at 760.632.8900 or contact us here to learn more.