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 Reporter |
Summary: This is a good family hike thru an ecological preserve. The main trail has many tributary trails to explore thus providing the hiker many reasons to return. The Escondido Creek marks the trailhead, be sure to explore the wildlife in its biosphere. The main trail is a 1.6 mile which meanders up a wall then leads up to numerous trails of varying difficulties. There is a Botanical Trail well marked describing the various plant life in the area. Also, be sure to look for the mule deer in the area. One can also hike about 9 miles one way over the mountain to Lake Hodges for a more strenuous journey. Trailhead: From Highway 78 take Rancho Santa Fe Road south. Go east on San Elijo Road about 5 miles to the Elfin Forest Receational Reserve parking lot. Its well marked and easy to find. (Lat:33.0799980977798 Lon:-117.129778970039) Trail Guides for Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve : Afoot & Afield in San Diego County by Jerry Schad (Wilderness Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Olivenhain Municipal Water District Parks Dept (760) 753-6466 x 147 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kevin Vasquez, who has posted 7 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 5 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Juneboarder on 7/27/2009 This is a local hiking area and I must say that I go here at least once a month. The previous poster either couldn't locate the Way Up Trail, or chose not to go that route. You must go up the Way Up Trail to reach all other trails or else the only other trail is one that meanders along the creek. This is dog friendly, but hot in the summer months. Bring lots of water. 
Reviewed by giovannih on 3/31/2009 man this place is horrible graffiti on cement u could see all the cars their is horse crap all over the place and its not even a hike more like a run around block.. also lost my phone in the river:( 
Reviewed by Sabrina on 3/30/2009 I've visited Elfin Forest since I was 7 years old, it's such an awesome place! Bring your camera!! There used to be a campground there where we went every other weekend when I was a kid, but I can't locate it on the net. I'm now 50. :)
Reviewed by SoCal Hikers on 3/10/2009 I have lived in California for almost three years and I hike all over. Elfin Forest is still my favorite. It is only 1.5 miles to the top but you can hike so many more awesome trails once you get to the top. You can go for at least 6 to 9 more miles. Many bikers love it too. I could never bike it, I would not make it. We take our four year old daughter and she loves it too. She hikes regularly though. I think it is difficult for small children to make it up. We picnic and just have fun. Yes it is off Elfin Forest Road not San Elijo Road but just because you do not find it does not make it a bad hiking spot. It is awesome for the whole family.
Reviewed by LEI on 12/3/2008 We took our 3y and had a great hike on the Way Up trail. We picnicked by the lake (Tables/water/porta-potty available) and returned back for a total of 3 hr trip. There were some steep areas and loose rock, wear good shoes and plan for plenty of direct sunlight. The creek was wonderful to sit and relax by.
Reviewed by SAM on 6/14/2008 Nice hike. Directions are incorrect though. You have to turn off San Elijo road onto Elfin Forest Road and then go about 5.5 miles to the entrance of the reserve.
Reviewed by JMA on 3/24/2008 My boyfriend and I have been enjoying nature and bonding through hiking. The "Way Up Trail" was quite enjoyable. Wear proper shoes and if possible use a stick. The trail is very rocky. When the trail at the top began to plateau, I asked a regular hiker for the elevation: 1200 ft. The trail, I think, is a tease for the trails along the way because there isn't much shade from trees. My boyfriend and I plan to hike the next tough trail and see Lake Hodges. We unfortunately did not hike past the bend on the top to see the lake, so I recommend going all the way and starting the trail around noonish or 1pm. We finished by taking the Botanical trail on our way down. Your shoes may get wet when crossing the creek.
Reviewed by Mike on 3/7/2008 Nice hike in the middle of suburbia. Have started using the Del Dios Highland trail to get in (much easier to get to from North Co inland). However, like all county park trails, it is 1.2 miles straight up (800 foot climb), real huffer. For a longer hike, take the Equine Trail, winds around to the dam. , then on out to the Hodges overlook. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, San Diego County Hiking, San Diego County Trails, San Diego County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||