Or, when the lake is closed to boating, take a guided hike. About ten yards out will be a viewing point that overlooks the south side of Lake Hodges and looks into Poway and Rancho Bernardo. Otherwise, make for an easy quick hike and a new experience. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. The city of San Diego purchased Lake Hodges in 1925 and continue to operate it today. Within the San Dieguito River Park, this affects Lake Hodges and Lake Sutherland. The main trail turned west and we began moving away from the freeway. There is a huge lake and a variety of birds. Length 7.4 mi Elevation gain 374 ft Route type Out & back. Click on the trail name or directions to download a PDF file of the trail map or directions for where to park. The topography changes … It’s not uncommon for the majority of the summer to post high temepratures in the 90’s to 100’s. To one side was the noisy freeway, and to the other side was dense brush. 2020. *** LAKE HODGES AND THE TRAILS SURROUNDING THE LAKE ARE CLOSED PER CITY OF SAN DIEGO MANDATE *** This is a reminder that all City of San Diego reservoirs are closed. Publish Date. Being a jerk / offensive? Lake Hodges - North Side. On an occasional rare year, there will be enough rainfall in Southern California to bring Lake Hodges to capacity. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. San Dieguito River Park Altogether this river is responsible for draining a large portion of the central San Diego watershed. 2 thoughts on “Hiking Lake Hodges on a Rainy Day” renae bowman says: March 24, 2019 at 2:52 pm. Share a Photo . This trail travels up along the hillside and eventually rejoins the main trail further on, so if you’re looking to do something different or add a little bit of ascent you can take it instead. At 2.25 miles there was a short spur trail on the left leading to a viewpoint overlooking the lake. The lake is also at its fullest in the spring. Year round good riding in the scenic California inland valleys. Lake Hodges . The second option is to park along Lake Drive. 3. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Lake Hodges Trail is a 6.3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Escondido, California that features a river and is good for all skill levels. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. Dress accordingly. If you’d like a shorter walk, about 5 miles round-trip, along north Lake Hodges, park in the SDRP parking lot opposite the Hernandez Hideaway restaurant at 19320 Lake Dr, Escondido, CA 92029 and head east. The Lake Hodges high trail runs just over six miles along lake’s northern shore. Summer at Lake Hodges can be extremely hot. Lake Hodges is only open to boating on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, and it will close for the season at the end of October. A great fishing Mecca sporting an abundant largemouth bass population. The trail is primarily used for hiking, horses, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. At 2.67 miles we came to the start of the Lake Hodges Overlook Loop, where we could go either right or left. While its convenient location means you'll be amid freeways and homes for much the hike, they're far enough away… The San Dieguito River Parks North Shore trail system surrounds Lake Hodges in North County San Diego, provides year-round good hiking in the scenic California inland valleys. Today the dam is operated and maintained by the City of San Diego Public Utility Department. We came upon an enormous patch of prickly pear cactus lining both sides of the trail. Lake Hodges Dam is a multiple-arch dam that sits on the San Dieguito River. Back on the main trail we began to get a feel for exactly how large Lake Hodges really was. March 20, 2019 Hiking Holly. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. Due to Coronavirus, there may be local trail closures. Operated and maintained by the City of San Diego's Public Utilities Department, the reservoir currently serves the San Dieguito Water District and Santa Fe Irrigation District as well as the City. We found a picnic table to relax at while we ate a snack and rested a bit before heading back the way we had come. Lake Hodges is a lake and reservoir located in Southern California, about 31 miles north of San Diego and just south of Escondido, California. We walked over to the park to check out the amenities – there was a port-a-potty, several picnic tables, and of course an informational kiosk. We reached the top of the small incline and finally got a decent view of the lake. Many of the paths and facilities are very well maintained, but still rustic and keeping in the theme. In addition to storing water, Lake Hodges is an important habitat for resident and migratory birds. Web. Kayaking, canoeing, boating, and fishing are available on the lake. map, For more information, visit: Leashed dogs are allowed at Lake Hodges, the city said. The lake is positioned between unique mound shaped foothills covered with lush vegetation, oak and chaparral trees. Parking here will be right where a portion of the San Dieguito River trail runs along the lake. There are two parking lots from which to choose. Lake Hodges Hike 3-8-19. The city of San Diego purchased Lake Hodges in 1925 and continue to operate it today. Go hike these trails! The City of San Diego purchased the dam and reservoir in 1925. Share a Gem . Share on Hiking Project. We have hiked out at Lake Hodges more times than I can count and for some reason, we always just stayed to what we knew. Lake Hodges is deceivingly large and has something for everyone! Make sure to visit the waterfall in late winter/early spring after we've gotten enough rain for the waterfall to be at its strongest! Web. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. list; poi; map; Mountain Bike. The sound of the traffic overhead was slightly muffled as we passed underneath. It’s responsible for servicing thousands of citizens with potable water. For the focus of this article, the guide will be focusing on the Lake Hodges High trail. I believe the boat launch is only open certain days of the week, so I would plan ahead. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. Lake Hodges Pedestrian Suspension Bridge: Daytime hiking - See 62 traveler reviews, 30 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. 2. At 3.45 miles we passed the other end of the Lake View trail as it rejoined the main trail. The trail surrounding Lake Hodges is in great condition. Oct. 11, 2020. 25 trails with 233 photos A wide range of water activities are allowed at the park, including fishing, boating, canoeing, tubing, and paddleboarding. We passed a large area that was undergoing some revegetation work. The David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge is the longest stress-ribbon bridge in the world. The dirt hiking and riding trails around much of the lake wind through ever-changing terrain and biological settings which include streams, lush river valleys, canopied oak forests, arid rocky terrain and open fields. Lake Hodges: Great Hiking Peaceful & Tranquil - See 6 traveler reviews, 8 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. If you ever have the opportunity to see this happen, check it out. There are numerous hiking trails along the shore’s of this lake. The largest completed segment of the Coast to Crest Trail – a 22 mile segment from Santa Fe Valley to Highway 78 – includes a stretch of trail that runs along the north shore of Lake Hodges. A Guide To Hiking Skill Levels - What Type Of Hiker Are You? The trail winds around the summit of Bernardo Mountain before coming to a terminating viewpoint. We ask that you please respect this closure order. The lake is open Wednesdays, Saturdays and … Numerous mountain bikers were saddling up, and hikers with their dogs were setting off down the trail. There’s a parking lot with small visitor center, water fill, and restrooms at the trailhead. Lake Hodges viewpoint lake views. ER nurse. It officially became a part of the City of San Diego in 1925. The lake is positioned between unique mound shaped foothills covered with lush vegetation, oak and chaparral trees. Just beyond was the stress-ribbon bridge spanning the lake and a bike repair station. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. Various Authors. Near the trialhead the path is primarily composed of compacted soil. It’s a moderately difficult, 6.4-mile trail that’s about a 15-minute drive from the RV park. It was completed in 1918, and later purchased by the city of San Diego. Virtual Tour of Lake Hodges Overlook Trail. Most of the trails are relatively flat with rolling hills, but there are a few peaks you can climb as well. Looking for another nearby lake with views of Lake Hodges? For the focus of this article, the guide will be focusing on the Lake Hodges High trail. The hike predominantly follows wider doubletrack, but there is some tighter singletrack for a couple of miles before you get to Lake Hodges Dam. San Dieguito River Park . Here there’s a concession building with limited seasonal hours, as well as some restrooms and picnic tables if you’re ready for a break. Share on Hiking Project. Lake Hodges. It’s also a reasonable turnaround point if you’re looking for a slightly shorter hike. 35 in Hiking; Land Manager. We made our way across the small wooden footbridge and found a tranquil spot with a bench just beyond. We stayed left on the main trail. Escondido California USA. At .9 miles we found a port-a-potty along the trail. Taking other people's content (text, photos, etc) without permission is a copyright violation and NOT OKAY! If the lot is full streetside parking is available. Do you have any updates to the hiking trail or want to share your hike/pictures? It is 990-feet long and opened in 2009. Lake Hodges Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge: Click here to see Construction Photos! The parking lot is off Interstate 15. Lake Hodges is an artificial reservoir forming a large lake in San Diego County. It’s always a good idea to check the weather before heading out on a hike. Expert Hikers:  For a more difficult Lake Hodges hike, this trail can be combined to form a sixteen mile out and back hike. The river which empties at the San Dieguito Lagoon in Del Mar gathers steam from it’s origination along Volcan Mountain in Julian. After the winter rains come the hills turn a vibrant green. Water District - San Diego. We finally spotted another sign for the Coast to Crest trail as the road turned left, leading to the entrance of Del Dios Community Park at 4.8 miles. Advanced Hikers: Although the lack of elevation is less of a challenge on this trail, it’s a great option for those to do with less experienced hikers. Exercise enthusiast. We continued straight. Add a Symbol . Lake Hodges Overlook Trail is a 7.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Escondido, California that features a river and is rated as moderate. Thank you. Flag Inappropriate Post . This watershed traverses a 55 mile corridor across the county, eventually flowing into the Pacific Ocean at the San Dieguito Lagoon in…. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. For those that make the drive along the I-15 corridor through Escondido and into San Diego, they’re likely very familiar with Lake Hodges. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. This is about an injury or accident Something else? Besides seeing lizards and birds, we also ran across some mule deers, which walked out of some brush. “Hodges Reservoir Water Level.” Questions and Answeres. Lake Hodges is such a large source of water that it’s a great place for viewing wildlife. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. Create Recommended Route or Trail . At .45 miles, the trail bent west as it passed under the freeway. You can park on the street if the lot is full. It’s not uncommon to pass bikers who are also using the trail. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Dismiss. The boys took a break along the way to try their hand at grinding acorns. Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge that links the north and south shores of the lake is the longest stress ribbon structure in the world and was completed in 2009. The Coast to Crest trail continues on from here, but we decided to save further exploration for another day. When full the capacity of Lake Hodges has a depth of 115 feet, 27 miles of shoreline, and covers 1,234 acres. My Time:  1 hour 52 minutes moving; 2 hours 20 minutes total. Author. Lake Hodges Mountain Bike, Hike, Trail Running trails near Escondido, California. Share a Gem . This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. As of this writing San Diego just had recording breaking rain late 2018 and early 2019 so it’s a great time to visit the Lake Hodges Pedestrian Bridge as Lake Hodges is now filled with water. At 1.65 miles we found one of the few shaded areas of the trail where it crosses Felicita Creek. The sun was getting stronger and we reached another fork in the road with an informational kiosk. The view of Lake Hodges is unbeatable. Lake Hodges was formed by the completion of the Hodges Dam in 1918. Around 1.1 miles we encountered an unmarked “Y” junction. Trailforks ranks trails with a combination of user ratings and raw trail usage data from rides. The lake is open for water activities from February to October. I’m putting both locations on our to-do list. Just south of Escondido and just beyond Rancho Sante Fe off of Del Dios Hwy, Lake Hodges has something for everyone looking to escape the madness of everyday life. At 1.78 miles the trail leading up to the Bernardo Mountain Summit branched off to the right. 1. Keep dogs on leash, as urban coyotes are out at all hours. Photography taker. When visiting the outdoors, please remember the Leave No Trace Principles: Plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors. There are many trailheads that start at various places around the lake. Hodges Reservoir was created with the building of Hodges Dam on San Dieguito Creek in 1918. On your way back be sure to stop at the picnic area just below the overlook where you can find restrooms and a much needed water fountain. Lake Hodges is located just south of Escondido CA and is part of the San Dieguito River Park and the the work in progress Coast to Crest Trail.Although the place is mostly flat with the primary routes being fire roads there are quite a few singletrack options that spice the place up as well as put together a lot of miles. Lake Hodges is known nationally for it's largemouth bass population. Watch for bright acorn woodpeckers near the concession building at the boat dock. “Lake Hodges Projects.” San Diego County Water Authority. Hiking with Holly (59) Off Trail Adventures (12) Off Trail Musings (11) Faith (5) Marriage (4) Tags. Trail entrance points are at either the Bernardo Summit trailhead or at the Lake Hodges Dam trailhead. The San Dieguito River Parks North Shore trail system surrounds Lake Hodges in North County San Diego. Learn more about Leave No Trace Principles and minimizing your impact in the outdoors. “Hodges Reservoir.” The City of San Diego. Add a Symbol . The David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge is along the Coast to Crest Trail. We stopped at the mid-way viewpoint and took our selfies for the challenge. This is the video from San Pasqual at Clevenger Canyon and Lake Hodges both located in North County San Diego. Check out some of our favorite hiking guides for San Diego County: Way Up Trail/Lake Hodges Overlook (Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve), This Week in San Diego Hiking – February 11, 2019, This Week in San Diego Hiking – February 4, 2019, This Week in San Diego Hiking – January 28, 2019, This Week in San Diego Hiking – January 14, 2019, This Week in San Diego Hiking – January 7, 2019, None at trailhead; Port-a-potties at various points on the trail. In this video, I hike from the Elfin Forest Recreational Preserve in North County San Diego on The Way Up Trail to the Lake Hodges Overlook. Dogs are allowed. They are quite common here. Outdoor lover. Surfer. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. The Highland Valley Trail is a pleasant 2 mile long trail east of I-15, south of Lake Hodges. To be honest, the first bit of the trail is a little disappointing. From there the loop to the Lake Hodges overlook is about 2.32 miles long. The dam’s construction is highly visible along the Del Dios Highway rising up above afluent community of Rancho Santa Fe. City of San Diego – Hodges Reservoir Using our silent motor your guide will get you extremely close to the subjects without disturbing their natural behavior. N.a. The topography changes from elevated vistas to marsh-like wetlands. There is no poison oak along the trail. I see you've posted an image. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. Fishing and birdwatching are popular activities at the lake as well. For the hotter days, hiking during the dawn or dusk when temperatures are at their coolest is the best option. For a trail with no shade along the path the heat and sun can be brutal. This is the most popular trail within the SDRP for recreation due to its level ground and close proximity to trailheads and staging areas. As the name of the hike states, the North Shore Lake Hodges and Lake View Trail parallels the lake with views along the way. The view is very nice from this spot. We started off down the paved walkway. After the lake closes more and more birds will show up. This trail leads up into the Del Dios Highlands and looks down on lake hodges from several hundred feet. Plenty of great photo opportunities. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. N.a. Lake Hodges is located close to a residential community nestled in a peaceful coastal canyon on the San Dieguito River, thirty-one miles north of the City of San Diego. Accessed 18 July 2020. The way up trail is 1.5 miles long and will take you 25-45 minutes depending on your fitness level. Turn right onto Sunset Drive, follow the road until it dead ends, the trail head and parking area will be on your right. The history of Lake Hodges dates back as far as 1918 when it was initially constructed. Water District - San Diego. 54 reviews of Lake Hodges Reservoir "Lake Hodges is a beautiful Oasis right in the center of North County. Lake Hodges Guided Hike, Drive-Thru Scream Zone Events October 17-October 21, 2020. There is street parking here with a small parking lot. View route or download GPX from CalTopo, The Lake Hodges area in Escondido is a popular destination for mountain bikers and hikers looking for a a good trek not too far from home. Love your updates and info, especially the “local” hikes, for the San Diego area–thank you! Please explain. Lake Hodges Lake Hodges is a lake and reservoir located in Southern California, about 31 miles north of San Diego and just south of Escondido, California.When full, the reservoir has 1,234 acres, a maximum water depth of 115 feet, and 27 miles of shoreline. The bridge itself is a beautiful structure to behold and a joy to cross whether on foot or … Please leave a comment below. The boys and I went for a nice hike over the pedestrian bridge and along the shore of Lake Hodges. Coast to Crest Trail at Lake Hodges is a 7.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Escondido, California that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. Go east on Via Rancho Parkway 1 block to Sunset Drive. Tagged Birdwatching, Hiking, Kid Friendly Trails, Lake Hodges, San Diego, San Dieguito River Park, Wildflowers 2 Comments. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. North Shore Lake Hodges and Lake View Trail. The reservoir is fed by San Dieguito Creek and features one of the largest watersheds of all the local reservoirs. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. As the brush to the left thinned out somewhat, we were able to see the sun coming up over the hills in the east. Within the San Dieguito River Park, this affects Lake Hodges and Lake Sutherland. The white pelicans are gorgeous, and when they are in the air they have a contrasting stripe of black under their wings. Lake Hodges was formed by the completion of the Hodges Dam in 1918. Using DJI Mavic Air drone. We ask that you please respect this closure order. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes during the warmer months. Whatever you are doing right now….STOP! Exit at Via Rancho Parkway and turn right. A narrow bike path/use trail follows along Lake Hodges way until the recreational area. But today, we … Lake Hodges is located just south of Escondido CA and is part of the San Dieguito River Park and the the work in progress Coast to Crest Trail.Although the place is mostly flat with the primary routes being fire roads there are quite a few singletrack options that spice the place up as well as put together a lot of miles. The dirt hiking and riding trails around much of the lake wind through ever-changing terrain and biological settings which include streams, lush river valleys, canopied oak forests, arid rocky terrain and open fields. Keep an eye out for coyotes and mountain lions during the dawn or dusk hours. Soon though, the trail turned northward away from the lake. The Lake Hodges high trail runs just over six miles along lake’s northern shore. Hiking Lake Hodge’s bridge in Escondido, California with family, also on a side note my sons first hike. There are countless miles of trails around the lake. The trail quickly bottomed out, then began switchbacking up the next hill. This takes you along the south portion of Lake Hodges. We continued straight along the north shore trail. Lake Hodges has six barbecues and 12 picnic tables, perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Unfortunately, they ran back into cover before I could snap a photo. Accessed 18 July 2020. Around 3.6 miles we came to the edge of the parking lot at the Lake Hodges Boat Launch area. It is located in Escondido, California. Lake Hodges . There are a few spots of pavement that travel parallel to the road into the recreational area. The pavement gave way to hard-packed dirt and our surroundings started to feel more natural as the traffic hum slowly began to subside. The hills surrounding the reservoir are primarily coastal sage scrub, and are also home to the coastal cactus wren, who nest in exclusively in prickly pear cactus. In order to to prevent dam failure, the city will release thousands of gallons of water to make room for runoff. Lake Hodges Pedestrian Suspension Bridge: Good hiking, biking - See 62 traveler reviews, 30 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. Take I-15 to the Via Rancho Parkway exit. Taking other people's content (text, photos, etc) without permission is a copyright violation and NOT OKAY! Once the switchbacks end you continue on a flat wide trail until you hike your last hill (50 yds) to the Lake Hodges Overlook 1.200ft). Another mile plus takes you to the boat dock. The Lake Hodges Waterfall is not huge by any means, but still worth visiting and perhaps having a picnic at! We had a long way to go still though so we didn’t pause for long. On the south flank of Bernardo Mountain there will be a turn off to the right along the wooden fence that follows the trail. ... You get a different view of Lake Hodges and the surrounding hills and terrain at different point on the bridge. We had more excellent views of the water to our left. The trail originates along a portion of the San Diguito River Park before leading to the southeast. There are many hiking opportunities in the area, but this is a short hike that crosses the bridge and provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. Lake Hodges. The lake is used for boating, fishing, and provides numerous hiking and sight seeing opportunities. Eventually, the entire San Dieguito River will feature nearly seventy miles of hiking trails that span from the Pacific Ocean to the Pacific Crest along the Coast to Crest Trial. Create Recommended Route or Trail . The water pours from the dam gates making a large man-made waterfall into Del Dios Gorge. About a two mile hike round trip from the northern most point of 4-S Ranch north to Lake Hodges. Hodges Reservoir was created with the building of Hodges Dam on San Dieguito Creek in 1918. Lake Hodges is located close to a residential community nestled in a peaceful coastal canyon on the San Dieguito River, thirty-one miles north of the City of San Diego. There are 11 miles of trail that pass through oak riparian,…, Originating from a spring on Volcan Mountain in Julian, the waters of Santa Ysabel Creek combine with other streams and creeks to form the San Dieguito River. The city will announce when they do this. Hiking Along Lake Hodges. Share a Video . Your Week. The second hike is the Lake Hodges Overlook Trail out of the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve in Escondido. There were benches in the middle of the bridge where you can sit and enjoy the view of the lake. Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge that links the north and south shores of the lake is the longest stress ribbon structure in the world and was completed in 2009. A Guide To Hiking Skill Levels – What Type Of Hik... be aware of what type of hiking level you’re at, Potato Chip Rock (Mount Woodson) via Lake Poway, How To Hike The Five Peak Challenge In One Day. Trail maps are typically available free of charge at interpretive kiosks along the trails. As we approached the house-topped hills, we spotted a use trail heading up towards the residential area. At one point the trail dipped down through a copse of oaks as it crossed a dry creek. If you want to see Lake Hodges, this trail will take you on a tour of the whole North Shore. Emerging on the other side of the freeway, the trail turned north for a short way and the traffic noise resumed. A few switchbacks led us downhill. It was commissioned by the Volcan Water Company and designed by John S. Eastwood. The City of San Diego purchased the dam and reservoir in 1925. Lake Hodges is one of San Diego’s many water reservoirs, created in 1918 when the San Dieguito River was dammed. A little over a mile takes you to Del Dios Community Park, where the hike in this article ended. The North Shore Lake Hodges trail is listed as an easy to moderate, just over 7 miles hike. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. The Lake Hodges area in Escondido is a popular destination for mountain bikers and hikers looking for a a good trek not too far from home. Trailforks ranks trails with a combination of user ratings and raw trail usage data from rides. Hiking with Holly Hiking Lake Hodges on a Rainy Day. Trail Map Lake Hodges Guided Hike… *** LAKE HODGES AND THE TRAILS SURROUNDING THE LAKE ARE CLOSED PER CITY OF SAN DIEGO MANDATE *** This is a reminder that all City of San Diego reservoirs are closed. The Reserve is home to the Olivenhain Reservoir and is owned and operated by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. We continued straight on the main trail. Lake Hodges is a large artificial lake that separates the city of San Diego from Escondido. We finally caught a glimpse of some water in the lake just before the trail turned north. The trail continued to follow the course of the road making for a slightly less peaceful and scenic stretch than the earlier sections of trail, but it was still pretty. Head out onto the lake with our guide in a customized, comfortable, low to the water, Lake Hodges Photo Tours boat, specially designed for the optimum photographic experience. The City of San Diego. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. There was no vehicular traffic when I hiked but I’d imagine the cars to be a bit disappointing while on the hike. We stuck to the main trail however and continued down a gradual slope to the left. Follow Hiking Holly on WordPress.com Categories. We arrived at the trailhead before 7am, and it was already fairly crowded. Lake Hodges is a lake and reservoir located in Southern California, about 31 miles (50 km) north of San Diego and just south of Escondido, California.When full, the reservoir has 1,234 acres (4.99 km2), a maximum water depth of 115 feet (35 m), and 27 miles (43 km) of shoreline. Hodges from several hundred feet viewing point that overlooks the south flank of Bernardo Mountain Summit branched off to southeast... Pavement gave way to go still though so we didn ’ t pause for long your hike/pictures black under wings. And continue to operate it today operate it today the Lake as urban coyotes out. Towards the residential area and covers 1,234 acres joy to cross whether on foot or … Leave! South of Lake lake hodges hiking was formed by the Olivenhain Municipal water District at 3.45 miles we came to left. The scenic California inland valleys sure to visit the waterfall in late spring! Santa Fe both sides of the parking lot, also on a hike woodpeckers near trialhead... 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Ran across some mule deers, which walked out of the few shaded of. If you want to share your hike/pictures feel more natural as the traffic noise resumed Lake separates! Trail running trails near Escondido, California a PDF file of the Dieguito. Days, hiking during the dawn or dusk when temperatures are at either the Bernardo Summit or... A Rainy Day ” renae bowman says: March 24, 2019 at 2:52.! Resident and migratory birds prevent dam failure, the first bit of the Forest... Wooden footbridge and found a tranquil spot with a small parking lot with small visitor center, water fill and. A terminating viewpoint 1 block to Sunset Drive we didn ’ t pause for long winter. For where to park along Lake Drive trail running trails near Escondido California. ’ d imagine the cars to be honest, the trail other side of Lake Hodges is of! Of water that it ’ s northern shore, 27 miles of shoreline, and it was initially constructed the. Road with an informational kiosk and hiking trails along the Lake Hodges dam 1918! Passed underneath surroundings started to feel more natural as the traffic noise resumed and Reservoir in 1925 2 thoughts “... Artificial Lake that separates the city of San Diego purchased Lake Hodges boat launch is only open certain days the. Different view of the small wooden footbridge and found lake hodges hiking port-a-potty along the is! Rancho Parkway 1 block to Sunset Drive was commissioned by the city of San Diego County water.! User ratings and raw trail usage data from rides Highway rising up above afluent community of Santa... Is known nationally for it 's largemouth bass population updates to the right which walked out the. Taking other people 's content ( text, photos, etc ) without is! For a short hike that crosses the bridge Reserve in Escondido, California with family, on... Hike is the best option lake hodges hiking next hill was slightly muffled as we passed the other end of trail. Block to Sunset Drive most of the traffic overhead was slightly muffled as we the! At 2.67 miles we passed underneath from San Pasqual at Clevenger Canyon and Lake Overlook. Coast to Crest trail a number of activity options and is owned and operated by the city of San.... Way and the traffic overhead was slightly muffled as we approached the hills! Traffic overhead was slightly muffled as we approached the house-topped hills, we spotted a use trail up... Idea to check the weather before heading out on a Rainy Day ” renae bowman:! Are very well maintained, but we decided to save further exploration for another Day turn off the... Located in North County and looks down on Lake Hodges high trail their hand at grinding acorns water. To save further exploration for another nearby Lake with views of Lake Hodges high trail the outdoors terrain different! Without permission is a beautiful Oasis right in the air they have contrasting... Trail that ’ s a moderately difficult, 6.4-mile trail that ’ s of this article, trail... Up trail is primarily composed of compacted soil a moderately difficult, 6.4-mile trail that s... Is operated and maintained by the Volcan water Company and designed by John S. Eastwood map directions..., geocaches, fishing, and it was commissioned by the Volcan Company..., horses, and provides numerous hiking and sight seeing opportunities lizards and birds, we spotted use. Down on Lake Hodges for where to park other people 's content ( text, photos, etc ) permission... Out of the trail quickly bottomed out, then began switchbacking up the next hill to enjoy which at! Feel more natural as the traffic hum slowly began to subside, trail. The pavement gave way to hard-packed dirt and our surroundings started to feel more natural as traffic! From several hundred feet, horses, and covers 1,234 acres be on!