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| Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail |
Los Penasquitos Canyon is a great day-use trail which is located
about 20 miles north of San Diego. This trail is popular for hiking, biking and
horseback riding. From the northern entrance located just off the 15 freeway, the
Los Penasquitos trail follows the Penasquitos creek to a small cascading
waterfall. From the northern trailhead, the hike is approximately 6 miles
roundtrip to the waterfall. Most people can finish the hike in less than 3
hours. The trail is almost entirely flat
and is suitable for hikers of any age or ability. Dogs are also permitted on the
trail as long as they are leashed.
The canyon is partly shaded by acorn trees, but there are
some sections where you will be exposed to the sun. The summer temperatures in
this area can be extremely hot, often in the 80-90 degree range. Dehydration is a very real concern and hikers
should be bring plenty of water for the trip. One small bottle of water will NOT
be enough during the summer months.
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| Los Penasquitos Waterfall |
For people who like to get away from the crowds, this trail
may not be for you. Because of its proximity to the freeway and several large neighborhoods,
this trail is almost always busy. The main trail through the canyon is
extremely wide, but there are many smaller single-track trails which wind
through the trees and provide some shade for hikers. Mountain bikers are not
technically permitted to use the single-track trails, but many still use them
anyway. Don’t be afraid to get off the main trail and do some exploring in the
canyon. There are several fun wooden bridges which cross over the creek. You
won’t be able to miss the waterfall because its marked by a giant rock
outcropping in the center of the canyon. The waterfall is definitely the highlight
of the trip, so don’t give up before you see it.
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| Los Penasquitos Canyon |
While not nearly as impressive as Cedar
Creek Falls to the east, Los Penasquitos is unique because it is one of
only a few waterfalls in the area which flows consistently. Los Penasquitos Canyon is definitely worth a
stop if you’re looking to get out of the city in San Diego and do a good a hike.
Directions to the Los
Penasquitos Canyon trailhead:
From Route 15, take the Mercy Road exit and head west for approximately
1 mile to Black Mountain Road. The entrance to the trailhead is located at the intersection
of Mercy Road and Black Mountain Road. There is a $5 fee to park at the
trailhead, but there is free parking available in the adjacent neighborhoods if
you don’t mind walking a bit further. The
trail is simple to find and starts at a locked gate at the far end of the parking
lot.
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| Los Penasquitos Canyon Map |
