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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 4 Submit your own review 
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. 
Reviewed by PS on 2/12/2008 I grew up in town and this is my favorite hike ever. It's not a difficult climb, worth the views, and there are picnic tables at the top! A lovely hike for anyone interested. 
Reviewed by itchybutt on 10/19/2007 tried to access this trail i used mapquest it took me about15 miles west then when I looked and found the way the trail head gate was closed to all access and some water authority personell gave the looked but didn't give info on when, how, and why
Reviewed by Bill on 8/12/2007 "Trailhead" directions, in main listing, are misleading. (Met local who said they tried - unsuccessfully - to find it on 3 separate occasions!). Should say, "... Go east on San Elijo Road, then turn right (heading south-east) on Elfin Forest Road, stay on main road as it makes a hard left turn (now heading north-east) and turns into Harmony Grove Road. Then look for sign, on the right."
Reviewed by JH on 6/22/2007 Nice hike, only one way up but lots of choices when you reach the top. The equine incline is my personal favorite, it's quiet and away from the power lines and service roads. The nature loop is a nice walk for all the family, one part of the trail is rocky and on an incline and you have to balance on rocks to get across the river ! The main parking lot is closed for the summer of 2007 so be prepared to wait for a space or park on the road.
Reviewed by LH on 4/30/2007 Nice place, even have place for picnic. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||