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 Reporter |
Summary: A hike along Observatory Trail on Palomar Mountain is like a "three-for-one" deal at the supermarket: for the price of sweating out a hike on one beautiful, coniferous, oak-lined trail, you reap the benefits that normally only result from having hiked along at least three other trails: a good aerobic climb, magnificent scenery along mostly good trail, and access to a world-famous observatory. The trailhead is easy to find within the Observatory Campground (Forest Service Adventure Pass required to park here), and the trail itself is clearly defined throughout. A spectacular view of Mendenhall Valley is offered from an observation platform within a half-mile of the start, and wildflowers are profuse during the months late in the spring. At trail's end (after slightly more than 2 miles), one can continue up to the Palomar Observatory just to the right of the trail's end and visit the 200-inch Hale Telescope or retrace one's steps back to the campground. Trailhead: From Interstate 15, near Fallbrook, drive twenty-one miles east on Highway 76. Turn north on Road S6 (South Grade Road), continue 6.5 miles to the junction with Road S7, then continue three miles north along Road S6 to the Observatory Campground (located across from the Forest Service Sign on the right side of the road). The parking area for the trailhead and the amphitheatre is located toward the back of the campground "loop" and is signed. A Forest Service Adventure Pass is required to park at the trailhead. (Lat:33.34346 Lon:-116.87767) Trail Guides for Palomar Mountain-Observatory Trail: Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Cleveland National Forest-Palomar Ranger District (760) 788-0250 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Patricia Barnes, who has posted 23 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by JT on 9/14/2009 Great, fun, yet challenging trail. Just got back from it, I consider myself to be in pretty good shape and still got a great workout out of it. The views were amazing, it was not too hot and was fortunate enough not to run into any rattlesnakes or coyotes. I'll be coming back soon!! 
Reviewed by David on 7/17/2009 Hiked it on 7/14/09 - Lots and lots of bugs and a bit spooky in places. Overall this is a nice down and back trail and may be a bit challenging to those not use to the altitude. We parked at the observatory and made our way down to the campground. The first half mile was a bit scary in places due to over hanging shrubbery and what appeared to be a lesser amount of maintenance. Even though we were bathed in insect repellent we were harassed non stop by gnats and other bugs. We made the entire hike with out seeing another person either way - which added to the spooky factor. It was a nice hike and would recomend, but not during July or August due to bugs and high tempature.
Reviewed by Mary on 7/3/2009 We did this hike beginning of July. There were a few gnats in patches along the hike, but nothing to keep you from enjoying the trail. The weather was a little warmer then I would have liked, but we just stopped a little more often in the shade. We saw forest personel working just off the trail and thanked them for their hard work at keeping the trail so nice. Biggest creature we saw was a lizard on rock. We saw tracks of deer but couldn't see any. This was a "moderate" hike that most people could really enjoy. There is no way that you can get lost on this trail, it's just up and back. It pops out at the Palomar Observary, which is just up the road. Still wildflowers to be seen, especially at the end on left side of road.
Reviewed by Mary on 10/15/2008 If you have a state park pass, parking is free. Otherwise pay $6. Park at the bottom There is still some damge noticable from the fire and some of the trail is ashes, making a nice dust cloud. This trail is well maintained! Went with a group of 20 in August. The gnats were a bit annoying, but should not stop anyone from wanting to see the beauty offered here. Oh and yes there was poison oak near the trail. Don't touch and you won't have to worry. We didnt see any snakes nor did we hear any cars. Is not close to any main roads. This is a moderate hike, not an easy hike. Leave the kids, grandma, and grandpa at home. Go out an enjoy a pic nic and glass of wine with your spouse. 
Reviewed by MM on 8/12/2008 I really enjoyed this hike, I've hiked this and other trails in the state park. On one trail in the state park there were MANY rattlesnakes on both sides of the trail. I know June can be bad for bugs. Have camped there overnight no problem. Beautiful area.
Reviewed by aaron on 7/21/2008 Definitely a great hike but can get quite dangerous. I also went with a group of 5 and we saw 2 mountain lions. Thank god it was a day hike and we scared them away! I would not stay overnight. Def be careful!
Reviewed by Jason M on 10/21/2007 We hiked the Thunder Springs-Chimney Creek-Scotts Cabin trails and even wandered off to the Baptist/Weir route on the way back - to see the historic site and small waterfalls (left trail). It was an amazing trail and we would definitely recommend it to beginner's to moderate hikers. The weather was windy but not too bad and we even heard a few tree's fall in the distant forest. There were no bugs and the only growls we heard were from our stomach after the 6 mile hike was over.. We will be back and do it again soon.
Reviewed by Rene on 10/14/2007 A great hike: 55 minutes up and 40 minutes down. I handle moderate trails of 4 miles out and back length, with greater elevation gain, but at lower altitude. (e.g. Rattlesnake Ledge, in WA state). The trail is sometimes difficult to make out at spots, however. According to the signpost at the observatory end, the trail is 2.2 miles long, one way. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||