Some of our favorite walks and hikes to get you out and exploring Encinitas!

San Elijo Lagoon Santa Inez Trail

San Elijo Lagoon is one of San Diego's more diverse coastal wetlands. Within the lagoon reserve, trails connect wetland habitats of coastal strand, salt marsh, freshwater/brackish marsh, riparian scrub, coastal sage scrub, and mixed chaparral. The nearly 1000-acre reserve is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals, many rare and endangered. While birds are the most prominent wildlife, species of mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates depend on the lagoon.

Our recommended route is the beautiful and tranquil Santa Inez trail, accessed via the Dike trail, for a total of 2.42 miles round-trip . The route starts at the Dike Trail trailhead on Manchester Drive in Cardiff by the Sea, just east of Interstate 5. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to Mira Costa College on Manchester Drive. Within the lagoon, during the warm summer months, water evaporates, leaving salt pans where Killdeer nest. The dike which runs north-south across the lagoon was an early part of restoration efforts in the East Basin beginning in the 1980s. If you choose to continue on past the Santa Inez trail, you can connect to the are plenty of connecting trails to venture out on to add some distance to your walk. Return back via the same route.

The San Elijo Ecological Reserve website provides great information about all of the reserves features and trails. While you’re enjoying the preserve, stay on established trails only and keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife.

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Annie's Canyon Loop

Hike into one of the wildest stretches of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, bordering Cardiff-by-the-Sea and Solana Beach, Encinitas’ neighbor to the south. The quarter-mile Annie’s Canyon Trail, once prone to vandalism, was restored and opened on June 21, 2016. It is named Annie’s Canyon Trail in honor of a conservancy supporter, Annie, who desired to expand and restore wild areas for nature and for people. Whether you hike through the steep switchbacks, or choose the winding path to the overlook, the views of the ocean and lagoon are panoramic.

Annie’s Canyon Trail is a moderate-to-strenuous .25 mile loop trail accessible from Rios Avenue trail. The trail gets extremely narrow and steep in sections, requiring some light climbing that can be a blast for kids, and a fun challenge for anyone! Along the marked trail, naturally eroding sandstone walls open up to sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and lagoon at an elevation of 200-feet above sea level. The canyon was sculpted by water, over time, which poured over sandstone and smoothed its surface into narrow corridors with sandy footing like a dry creek bed. It is deeper than it is wide.

Lagoon trails are open sunrise to sunset. Please stay on marked trails too! Find plenty of other places to explore on the Nature Collective website. Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Leucadia Coastal Loop

This 2.13 mile loop through north Leucadia starts and finishes at Grandview Beach parking lot taking you along North Coast Highway 101, south to Leucadia Roadside Park at Leucadia Blvd to Beacon’s Beach before returning back. You’re sure to spot something interesting and new-to-you along this route. On the 101, Leucadia boasts an eclectic mix of businesses, inns, eateries, galleries and plenty more. At Beacon’s and Grandview, you’ll always spot plenty of beachgoers and surfers checking the waves and hanging out. Neptune Avenue is always a favorite of walkers, runners and cyclists getting a workout. Some historic points of interest include Coast Highway’s row of large Eucalyptus trees, planted way back in the late 1800s, and the Leucadia Post office, it’s looks mostly unchanged since it was built in the late 1940’s.

Free public parking is available at Grandview Beach, located at 1700 Neptune Avenue. There are a lot of cool photo opportunities along the way on this route. Take some pics and share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Swallowtail Out-And Back

This walk offers some of the prettiest views in town. From the end of Swallowtail Road in Leucadia, you’ll hike a somewhat rugged city trail along a ridge line, taking in sweeping views of Leucadia’s natural canyons sloping down toward La Costa Avenue and the edge of Encinitas’ city limit. As you reach the end of the out-and-back route, the view of both Batiquitos Lagoon and the ocean open up. While the route is short in length, it does have some punchy hills and rugged terrain, so be sure to wear walking or hiking shoes with good traction.

Off-street parking is available at the cul-de-sac at the end of Swallowtail Rd. The trail head is marked and easy to spot. As a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas trails, they must stay on leash at all times.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Return to Manchester Preserve

Go to Encinitas’ Manchester Preserve, located just about a mile east from Interstate 5 in Cardiff. The Preserve is a 123-acre open space area that features miles of varied trails within a wide, sloping canyon. In total, there are approximately 4 total miles of trails within, but this week’s route is 1.89 miles round-trip.

Starting from a small trailhead parking area, located on Manchester Avenue just south of Trabert Ranch Road, hit the trails and follow the main path up, heading toward the canyon highpoint. From the top of the Preserve, follow the loop across the top of the canyon in a clockwise direction, around the canyon, descending back toward the parking area. The single track will run alongside Trabert Ranch road as you finish. There are plenty of other routes to explore, but If you do, please be sure to stay on marked trails and out of sensitive habitat areas. You will find that most trails lead back to the main staging area/parking at the bottom of the canyon.

The trails at Manchester Preserve are rugged and steep in some parts. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good traction and watch your step! Also, as a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas trails, they must stay on leash at all times.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Town Center Stroll

This is a great route to grab some exercise while out running errands or on a lunch break, and also is a handy way to travel between the Encinitas Town Center and the Carlsbad Forum Shops. The route with all the details can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/create/. The route takes you along a watershed that is home to large mature trees, providing abundant shade. Upon crossing Leucadia Blvd, the route, heading north provides great views of the recently restored wetland too.

Start at Leo Mullen Sports Park, located at 951 Via Cantebria. Head north along the sidewalk, crossing at Town Center Drive. Make a right and look for the trail head marker and take the dirt path heading north behind the shopping center and along the creek. The trail will pop out at Leucadia Blvd, where you will use the crosswalk to continue north. After crossing Leucadia Blvd, reconnect with the trail continuing north. Upon reaching the Carlsbad Forum Shops, you can either return the same route, or continue on past the shops and onto City of Carlsbad trails.

This week’s route is almost entirely flat on sidewalk decomposed granite/dirt paths, making it a good one for strollers and bicycles.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Cottonwood to Orpheus Park Loop

This walk offers a park two-for-one, taking you from Cottonwood Creek Park to Orpheus Park, using a few clever short cuts. The 2.05 mile route with all the details can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1695801137. Along the route, you’ll spot some cool, original Encinitas homes, great views of Leucadia and you’ll get to enjoy a couple of popular Encinitas parks.

Start at Cottonwood Creek Park, located at 95 N. Vulcan Avenue. Head back around the tennis courts and you’ll find a set of stairs taking you out of the park and onto Arroyo Drive and follow it until you reach Ocean View Ave and head north. Continue along Ocean View Ave, then make a left onto Union Street, heading west. When you reach Orpheus Park, follow the path through the park downhill to connect to Paul Ecke Elementary School on Union Drive. From Union, use the crosswalk to cross Vulcan Avenue and head south back toward Cottonwood Creek Park. Be sure to use the crosswalk at Encinitas Blvd to return to the park.

This week’s route is mostly flat on sidewalk and road surfaces. Please use caution when walking along city streets without designated sidewalks.

Now get out there and enjoy! With the right lighting and conditions, this route boasts some of the best views Encinitas has to offer. Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Paseo De Las Verdes Loop

This walk offers a scenic, not-too-long loop, with just enough incline to get a sweat going, but steep enough to make you suffer! The 1.88 mile route can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1686711002 begins at Las Verdes Park, located at 1390 Paseo De Las Verdes, and heads north on a decomposed granite (DG) surface sidewalk path uphill to Paseo De Las Flores, where you’ll make a right, heading east along the Encinitas Ranch golf course. Continue on the path along Paseo De Las Flores you’ll spot a recreational trailhead where you’ll make another right heading back toward Las Verdes Park along the golf course. This trail segment offers great views of the Encinitas Union School District’s Farm Lab, which provides students with educational experiences that demonstrate the interconnectedness of nutrition, agriculture and ecology.

This week’s route is mostly all dirt or DG surface, so be sure to wear shoes with good traction. If walking with a dog, please make sure they stay on-leash on all city recreational trails.

Now get out there and enjoy! With the right lighting and conditions, this route boasts some of the best views Encinitas has to offer. Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Cantebria Gardena Trail Loop

This route will have you burning calories and your legs feeling the burn too as you gain elevation from Leo Mullen Sports Park (across from Target shopping center) up to the high-point of the Encinitas Ridge Line Trail then back. The start and end point at the Park is close to plenty of spots to have a post-hike bite to eat or refreshments. Also, staging at Leo Mullen Sports Park, means you’ve got restrooms, a playground and plenty of room to stretch, warm-up or picnic.

The hike route is 2 miles round trip and travels over both sidewalks and trails, not too steep, but with long, steady climbs. The route begins along the sidewalk heading uphill from Leo Mullen Sports Park at 951 Via Cantebria, then crosses to the other side of the street at the stoplight/crosswalk and continues up Via Cantebria to where the Cantebria Gardena trail is marked and turns to dirt. Follow the trail north staying below the bluff at the fork. The trail stays mostly flat for a stretch passing below the bluff, then reverses course to climb up to the Encinitas Ranch Ridge Line trail. From there, head to the southernmost point of the ridge line before dropping back onto the Cantebria Gardena trail returning to Via Cantebria. From there, head back down the road to Leo Mullen Sports Park where you started.

With the recent clear weather, the views looking north and east toward the mountains from the ridge line trail are fantastic. The sandstone bluffs and landforms you’ll pass are a deep orange when the sun is out and take on different shades of color as the sun passes. As cool looking as the bluffs are, please stay on the trail and out of closed areas for your safety. Also, as a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas Trails, they must stay on leash at all times. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you on this one!

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Swami’s Pedestrian Underpass-ageway

Using the Swami’s Pedestrian rail underpass and Coast Highway crossing opens up a world of possibilities as a connection to the coast. This week’s two and a half mile route (www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1653015686) starts and ends at one of the best views in all of Encinitas, where parking is generally abundant, making it a great starting point for a walk to the beach or old downtown Encinitas, especially when the beaches are packed and downtown is busy with summer crowds. Starting from Santa Fe at Cornish Drive, a block east from the railroad tracks, park in any of the available off-street parking spaces or curbside then head toward the coast.

The pedestrian underpass is one of the coolest you’ll find anywhere, with amazing water-wise plants and vegetation. Passing through the tunnel under the tracks gets you right out to Coast Highway where you’ll hit the sidewalk and head north, making a turn over to 3rd Street, passing the Self Realization Fellowship Gardens, which makes a great stop for some quiet and tranquility, as well of some of the best views in town. Head north along 3rd Street, then at J Street, head west to get over to 4th Street, along which you can make stops at a number of City viewpoint parks at J, I and H streets (Local tip: there is a path along the bluff between J and I street that is public right of way. The gate is unlocked during daytime hours). Keep going on 4th Street and you’ll pass the original 1883 Encinitas school house and a couple blocks later you’ll be at Moonlight Beach, which makes a great turnaround spot. Head back the way your came or explore old downtown a bit. Plenty of cool things to see along the way and of course great dining and shopping too!

This is a great route to take visiting guests on and makes for easy parking on those summer days. There are so many points of interest and incredible views along the way, so bring a camera and snap some pics. We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Quail Gardens Canyon Loop

This route combines breathtaking golf course and canyon views, an interesting bridge crossing and a strenuous hill climb for a terrific 1.89 mile workout.

The route starts and finishes at the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course parking lot (the golf course club house makes an excellent watering hole or place to grab a bite to eat too!). Heading north along the wide walking path along Quail Gardens Drive, take in the views of the golf course. In approximately a quarter mile you’ll come to the golf cart and foot bridge which crosses over Quail Gardens Drive. The bridge itself is worth a look, with its long wood beams and interesting design. From the bridge, you’ll have an amazing view of Indian Head Canyon to the west. Once you cross the bridge, again continue along Quail Gardens drive heading downhill until you find a trail marker on the left, taking you into the City’s Indian Head Canyon Preserve. Keep on the main path heading south and the wide trail will get a little steep, gaining elevation back toward Quail Gardens Drive. Once you reach the top of the Canyon, make a right turn returning toward the starting point of the route.

Since this route covers some ground on trail surfaces, be sure to wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes with good traction and support. Be sure to carry some water with you, since there are no water stops along the way. It’s also advised not to bring joggers or strollers on this one since the trail gets pretty steep in some sections. Dogs are welcome, but must stay on a 6 foot leash at all times on Encinitas trails. We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Little Oaks Park Out-and-Back Walk

Explore another great trail route. To get there, take Lone Jack Road to the City’s Little Oaks Park at 2879 Lone Jack Road (map), where there is usually plenty of parking and a nice staging area to start your walk. If you’ve got a horse, bring it too, since this is the City’s designated Equestrian park, complete with trailer parking and a practice ring.

From the park, use caution crossing Lone Jack Road and spot the posted trail marker, then head west on the City trail. After a little more than 100 yards, make a 90 degree left turn to continue on the trail where it will take you south to where the trail crosses Lone Jack Road then continues south. At this point, the public trail passes through a beautiful grassy lawn and bubbling creek, shaded by large trees. As the path continues toward El Camino Del Norte, you’ll pass over a great footbridge which was funded by the Encinitas Trails Coalition.

Use El Camino Del Norte as your turnaround point and head back the same way you came. In total, the route described is 1.41 miles and almost entirely flat, with an even trail surface, making it great for all ages and dogs too! As a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas Trails, they must stay on leash at all times. When using trails in Encinitas and most other multi-use areas, basic trail etiquette is that cyclists should yield to all other trail users and hikers yield to equestrians. If you are unsure about approaching someone with a horse, ask the handler for guidance.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center Trail Loop

Enjoy one of San Diego's more diverse coastal wetlands, which provides natural solace and recreation. Within the lagoon preserve, trails connect wetland habitats of coastal strand, salt marsh, freshwater/brackish marsh, riparian scrub, coastal sage scrub, and mixed chaparral. The nearly 1000-acre reserve is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals, many rare and endangered. While birds are the most prominent wildlife, species of mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates depend on the lagoon.

Our recommended route is the half-mile long San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center Trail Loop, which starts and finishes at the Lagoon Nature Center, which features interactive exhibits which explain the ecological reserve, as well as the plants and animals found there. There are plenty of connecting trails to venture out on to add some distance to your walk. The Nature Center is open daily 9am-5pm, and the trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. The Nature Center is located at 2710 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007.

The San Elijo Ecological Preserve website provides great information about all of the preserves features and trails. From the website- “The ADA-accessible mile-long double loop provides close-up views of the salt marsh habitat. A boardwalk traverses riparian woodland habitat. Interpretive displays highlight animals and plants of these lands and waters. There are also benches along the double loop, providing the opportunity to sit back and enjoy nature. The San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center offers public restrooms and tables and chairs on the observation deck.”

While you’re enjoying the preserve, stay on established trails only and keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Cardiff Beach Stroll

With early morning and afternoon low tides, this week’s Walk Wednesday takes you to Cardiff State Beach for a sandy stroll from Cardiff Reef to Seaside Reef for a relaxing 2.36 mile round-trip (map). It doesn’t get much flatter or straighter, making this a simple walk for the whole family. Dogs are allowed along this stretch of beach, which is managed by California State Parks. Dogs must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.

Starting from the sidewalk along Coast Highway 101, south of the Chesterfield intersection, head south past the San Elijo Campgrounds and over the San Elijo bridge. Once you’ve crossed over the bridge, head over to the sand, continuing south along the shore. You’re likely to see plenty of surfers and stand up paddle boarders hitting the surf at Cardiff Reef, one of Encinitas’ most popular spots. Keep heading south for approximately 1 mile until you reach Seaside State Beach.

At low tide conditions, you should find plenty of exposed reef to explore. Seaside is the southern boundary of the Swamis Marine Protection Area, at 12 square miles, San Diego County’s largest MPA. Think of the area as an “underwater State Park.” The MPA is an area where laws restrict or prohibit extractive use (such as fishing or kelp harvest). According to San Diego Coastkeeper, MPAs increase fish populations by providing a safe haven where fish can live and grow larger, increasing the likelihood of successful reproduction.

From Seaside Reef, head back north along the same route to complete this route. At peak high tide, there is not much beach to walk on, if any at all, so be sure to check the tides before heading out! Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Fortuna Ranch Loop

Our route for this week takes you back to beautiful Olivenhain for a lengthy 3.67 mile loop. The route, while passing along ranches and homes, keeps you on City multi-use trails, open to runners/walkers, horses and bicycles. For this one, use available curb parking along Camino Del Rancho, off of Lone Jack Road. From there, head down Brookside Lane, make a 90 degree left turn onto Olivenhain Farms Road. To the left, you’ll find a posted trail head and path heading north. Continue along the winding path to Wildflower Valley Drive where across the street, you’ll spot the marked horse trail at Wildflower Summit. On this section, you’ll climb a few switchback turns then hit a junction. Make a left to complete the loop in a clockwise direction. The trail continues straight for a long stretch, past Fortuna Ranch Road before making a 90 degree right turn. Approximately 800 feet ahead, you’ll find a trail entrance to return south toward Country Rose Circle and Fortuna Ranch Road, then Bumann Road, then returning to Wildflower Valley Drive, completing the loop. A map for this route can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1602395626.

While the route has some hills, the entire elevation gain is only 352 feet, and the surface is even, making it a good hike for adventurous little ones too. Along the way, you’ll pass horse ranches and amazing homes. While shade from mature trees is abundant on this route, water is not, so be sure to bring your own with you to stay hydrated.

We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Olivenhain Lone Hill Horse Trail

This route is in Olivenhain, along the Lone Hill Horse Trail. The route, while passing along homes, keeps you on City trails 93, 140 and 141 for a 1.64 mile out-and-back trek. Your hike will start from off-street parking available along Lone Jack Road near Lone Hills Drive. From marked trail 93 along Lone Jack Road, you’ll head up Lone Hills Drive. Go through the pedestrian opening around the gate and stay along the marked Recreational Trail. As you hit the summit, you’ll find the trail marker to cross Lone Hills Drive to get onto trail 141, which will round a bend and provide you sweeping views of the canyon below. Once the trail section ends at Lone Hills Drive, you can either turn back or explore other trail options that branch out to the east, at Encinitas’ city limits. A map for this route can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1592396356.

While the route has a steady, steep grade for the first quarter-mile, the trail surface is even, making it a good hike for little ones too. Along the way, you’ll pass horse ranches, and you will likely see hawks surveying the canyon below. While shade from mature trees is abundant on this route, water is not, so be sure to bring your own with you to stay hydrated.

The Olivenhain area has many trail segments to explore. Find them all on the City’s Olivenhain Trails map.

We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Encinitas Community Park Stroll

This is a terrific 1-mile route at Encinitas Community Park. Since Encinitas Community Park opened, people have used it as their go-to stroll or power-walk place. We even have a great City map of the most popular route. The walk itself is along wide pathways within the park, which is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. After the sun sets, the park still has security lighting on until 10pm, making this walk doable year-round in the evenings. The route we’re recommending is just over 1 mile from start to finish as an out-and-back loop.

On a clear day, you can also catch a glimpse of the ocean when at the south end of the park. This is a great walk to put in your health and wellness routine, since it’s easy to access, there are plenty of people to see, and there are restrooms both at the start, halfway point and finish. To get to this route, access Encinitas Community Park from the Santa Fe Drive entrance at 425 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas. When you enter the park, head to the parking area straight ahead, closest to the dog park entrance. While you’re out there, notice the personalized brick pavers throughout the park. Become a permanent part of Encinitas history with your own personalized brick paver! A 6"x9” brick paver is just $200 and include 3 lines of text. Funds raised from paver sales will purchase a variety of amenities for the park.

Get out there and enjoy! We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Mountain Vista Off-Leash Dog Area

This is a rugged 1-mile out-and back route that you can enjoy with or without a 4-legged friend. Mountain Vista Off-Leash Dog area, located at 1769 Mountain Vista Drive is an approximately half-mile stretch of hilly open space and trails on City property underneath the SDG&E power lines between Encinitas Blvd. and Mountain Vista Drive. The area is a designated off-leash dog area, where dogs have a blast exploring.

The route starts from the available street parking along Mountain Vista Drive and heads all the way south to Encinitas Blvd. The hike itself is somewhat steep in parts and the terrain is mostly unimproved trail, so be sure to wear suitable footwear. If bringing a pet with you, please be sure to note the posted rules and dog etiquette and of course, clean up after your pet. The route can be found at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1569962158.

This route is sure to be your pet’s new local favorite, and with the days getting longer, makes for a nice after-work stroll. We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Cottonwood Creek Park Trail

This 1.1 mile out-and-back stroll starts and ends at Cottonwood Creek Park, an Encinitas favorite, just off of Encinitas Blvd, west of I-5. Along the way, spot the interpretive signage telling the story of the watershed, and how the design of the park, and the City’s practices serve to filter and clean up the water before it reaches the ocean.

The route starts at the Cottonwood Creek Park parking lot. The park features grassy lawns, giant shade trees, a great playground, restrooms, parking and a great walking path that meanders along Cottonwood Creek heading east. Once you reach the east end of the park, the path continues east, beyond the tennis courts and heads toward a grove of old palm trees, giant eucalyptus trees and dense, lush vegetation between the trail and Interstate 5. You’ll be blown away by how dense the vegetation is along this stretch, like a jungle right here in Encinitas. The path continues, mostly flat and straight for a while before reaching a clearing and the end of the path, where you’ll turn back and return to the park. While the route is an easy one, the surface in some areas can be somewhat sandy, so watch your step. Find the route map at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1557790507.

This route is definitely kid-friendly, a nice and easy distance and not difficult, plus it starts and ends at an awesome park. So round up a group and get out there! We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Boneyards Beach Walk

The route is 1.8 miles round trip and gets you a great workout on the sand. The tidal range is large this week, so be sure to get out there early in the AM to catch some great negative tides, or the afternoon low tide so that you have plenty of beach to walk on. During low tide conditions, the reefs near Swami’s are well exposed and fun to explore.

For your safety, make sure someone knows where you are (cell coverage can be iffy below the bluffs), and please watch your step! There are often many rocks and uneven surfaces on the beach. Stay off the bluffs, and as a good rule of thumb, stay back from them. Especially with all the recent rains, our bluffs become unstable and sometimes areas collapse.

Now, here’s our route! From your start from the stairs at D Street Beach, head south, notice how the wave conditions change along the way. As you get closer to Swami’s the ocean floor in the surf zone changes from mostly sand to mostly reef. The stretch of beach, known as “Boneyards”” between D Street and Swami’s is usually uncrowded, sometimes you might be the only one there. As you round the corner approaching Swami’s, you might have to time the incoming and retreating waves to not get your feet wet.

Once you reach Swami’s, the halfway turnaround point on this walk, take a trip up and down the stairs to burn some extra calories and to get a good look at Swami’s, one of Encinitas’ most popular surf spots. On the return trip back to D Street, notice how the light and the breeze changes, as you’ll then be walking north, things sometimes can look, hear and feel very different. Beach walks keep your senses busy, enjoy, take in the experience!

We’d love to see your pics and hear about your experience. Share on social media and use the hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Moonlight Beach Park Trail

Did you know that Moonlight Beach technically extends all the way from the shore to Coast Highway 101, and includes one of the most interesting sections of trail to explore in town? Taking you from Coast Highway 101 at Encinitas Blvd/B Street along the Cottonwood Creek Watershed is a path that takes twists and turns, past wildflowers, ponds and palms, over bridges under which crawfish hide and eventually reaches the sand at Moonlight Beach, all within just a quarter mile.

This Walk Wednesday route is a great add-on to a visit to Moonlight Beach or downtown Encinitas. Interpretive signage along the way from start to finish tells the story of Cottonwood Creek and the natural processes and plants that filter water before it reaches the ocean, as well as the history of the area and wildlife and plants to spot along the way. Right now is an especially great time to get out there, since the wildflowers are brighter and more abundant than ever.

The out-and-back distance from the Moonlight Beach playground is just right for little ones, who will love to explore this one. Be sure to look close in the creek to spot crawfish and look for turtles popping their heads up in the deeper pond closest to Coast Highway 101.

We’d love to see your pics and hear about your experience. Share on social media and use the hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Sun Vista Park Loop

This walk takes you to Sun Vista Park, located at the east end of town at the corner of Rancho Santa Fe Road and Avenida La Posta. The park features wide, not-too-hilly paths around the perimeter of the park, which is separated by a creek. The route shown at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1524455515 gets you a total distance of 0.4 miles, so you can easily do a few laps to add to it. The great thing about this route is that it’s very stroller and kid friendly, great for little ones to tag along on bikes and scooters.

Sun Vista Park is popular for its playground, lots of green grass and the fact that as far east as it is, it’s often warm and sunny on those days that the coast is socked in with clouds. Bring a picnic and enjoy the shaded gazebo area. Also, the park offers off-leash dog hours on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 6am – 9am and 3pm - 8pm (east side of park only). Please obey all posted rules and stay out of the creek area. There are no restrooms at the park.

Now go do some laps! We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Neptune Avenue Adventure

This 4.6 mile out-and-back trek not only takes you from Moonlight Beach to the far north part of Leucadia for a great workout, but if you’re into it, can take you back in time to the ancient days of King Neptune, god of freshwater and the sea, who presided over the realms of Heaven and Earth, and plenty of other Greek gods and mythical figures. As the story goes, many of the Leucadia street names were given by early settler Nathan Eaton, English spiritualists, and developers with grand visions of a Greek-style resort town. Armed with a smart phone on this walk, you can learn a lot of cool stuff that will impress your friends!

The route starts at Moonlight Beach, where the facilities are always awesome, parking is generally abundant and you’ve got restrooms, showers and concessions to enjoy before or after your adventure. From Moonlight, head north toward the cul-de-sac of 5th Street, up the only real hill on this route, and continue north toward Neptune Ave. From there, it’s all straight as you head two miles north to the turnaround point at Grandview Beach, the end of the public street. For some extra toning and calorie burn, we challenge you to hit both sets of stairs (130 steps) at Stone Steps beach access (S. El Portal Street) and another 130 steps when you get to Grandview beach access. On this route, please use caution on Neptune Ave, since many sections are without sidewalks. There is ample room for walkers, runners and bikers. There are no drinking fountains along the way, so be sure to load up at Moonlight Beach before you go. Find the route map at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1513678804.

Now get out there and enjoy! We’d love to see your pics and highlights, so share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Encinitas Ranch Golf Course North

This 1.7 mile route has you travel the golf cart and pedestrian bridge which goes over Leucadia Blvd then head north along the ridgeline, with dramatic sandstone bluffs below and views to the east, before reaching a great shade gazebo, the perfect place to take a pause and view a couple of the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course’s most beautiful holes with the Pacific as a backdrop. From there, you’ll cross the golf course, still on City trails before reaching the home stretch along a mostly flat DG (decomposed granite) path which returns to Leucadia Blvd. From there, it’s downhill along the golf course to the starting point at the cart bridge.

This route is mostly flat, with the exception of a short, paved incline from the bridge to the ridgeline, then a downhill section of dirt path, where the trail crosses the golf course. Be sure to wear shoes with good traction. Also, stay on the path and obey all posted signs.

You can get to this loop from any direction, but we suggest you park and check out the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course Clubhouse and patio, a great place to have a bite or drink after your outing.

Now get out there and enjoy! With the right lighting and conditions, this route boasts some of the best views Encinitas has to offer. Share your experience on social media with hashtags Manchester Preserve, located just about a mile east from Interstate 5 in Cardiff is a 123-acre open space area that features miles of varied trails within a wide, sloping canyon. There are approximately 4 total miles of trails within the preserve, but the main loop we suggest is about 2 miles round-trip. Within the Preserve, you’ll find thick, lush coastal sage and chaparral. With dramatic, steep sandstone walls, you’ll find plenty of great spots for pictures and to take in views of the hills of southeast Encinitas and Rancho Santa Fe. This time of year, especially after all the recent rain, expect to find flowers in bloom very soon. This week might be the perfect time to get out there!

The Preserve is just about a mile east of Interstate 5. A small trailhead parking area is located on Manchester Avenue just south of Trabert Ranch Road. From the parking/staging area, hit the trails and follow along the main power line, where the main trails climb up the canyon toward the highpoint. From the top of the Preserve, return along the same route, or explore other out-and-back trail segments. A word of caution- Manchester Preserve features some steep sections of trail with stair step features. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good traction and watch your step!

The Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM) manages the Preserve, while the City of Encinitas maintains the trails. Please obey all posted rules and stay on the trails to help protect the habitat. Also, as a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas trails, they must stay on leash at all times.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience on social media with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife and tag @cityofencinitas too!

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Oakcrest Park Open Space

This week’s walk is through the native open space located between the Encinitas Community Center and Oakcrest Park. This is a great walk to take with little ones who like to explore, since it’s short in distance and close to amenities, yet provides a cool outdoor experience. The quick .39 mile loop first takes you to an awesome overlook, where you can spot the trails below and catch a great view of the mountains to the north and east of Encinitas. From there, the trail drops down a few switchbacks before popping you out onto a wide, paved walking path before getting back on a marked dirt path which takes you to Oakcrest Park. Spend some time at the park, where there’s abundant shade, restrooms and places to play. From there, it’s back up the hill to the starting point.

This walk can be done in under 10 minutes if in a hurry, or spend some time enjoying the view and checking out the plants and critters (lizards, rabbits) and birds (spotted a hawk and a blue jay today).

We recommend that you start your walk at the Encinitas Community Center, located at 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive since there is plenty of parking and a beautiful facility, open 7 days a week. Passing through the lobby of the Community Center, head out the back doors and head up the steps to the right, where you’ll find the first footbridge which marks the start of the route. If you’re there while the Community Center is closed, just follow the pathway around the building from the parking lot and you’ll find the trail head just behind the gymnasium.

We hope you enjoy your time exploring the Oakcrest Park open space area. Share your experience with hashtags #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Escondido Creek Trail

Since Escondido Creek flows all the way from the hills near Lake Wohlford west to San Elijo Lagoon, there are plenty of great places along the way to see it. Lucky for us, right here in Encinitas we have a great out-and-back hike, just shy of 2.75 miles that will take you right alongside it. Lace up your boots, bring some water and a camera, and enjoy a rugged walk along double and single track trail that climbs slightly before turning and dropping along the creek heading to the outskirts of town, where Encinitas (Olivenhain) meets Rancho Santa Fe.

To access this hike, drive Lone Jack Road, east from Rancho Santa Fe Road. As you travel Lone Jack, notice the City’s Little Oaks Equestrian Park on your right. Just a mile past, turn right onto Rancho Encinitas Drive and park curbside. To begin the hike, walk south along Brookside Lane to where it runs into Olivenhain Farms Road, where you’ll find the marked trail head. As the trail gets going, you’ll cross a creek alongside a bridge. Take a minute to notice that the bridge is made from a repurposed train car chassis. From there, the trail heads uphill and toward the canyon to the south, then along the creek bed.

Where the creek opens up to a fairly wide pool, shaded by mature trees, take a break before heading back. It’s a great spot to sit and take in the view, or have a picnic. From there, you can return to the start on the same route.

Check out the route at www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/1476420667.

This one’s an adventure. Get out there and enjoy it! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Explore Glen Park in Cardiff by the Sea

Stroll through the park, enjoying one of Encinitas’ very best, Glen Park in Cardiff by the Sea! Located on Orinda Drive, just across the railroad tracks from Coast Highway 101, Glen Park features a playground, picnic areas with barbecue grills, foot bridges and walking paths, horseshoes, full-court basketball, sand volleyball, a tennis court- plus some great ocean views. Glen Park is also proudly home of the City’s “Scout House” for Seaside Day Campers (ages 5-12) to enjoy all summer and during school breaks.

There are meandering walking paths that connect from the parking lot to different areas of the park. There is a lot to enjoy at Glen Park. With an old park, you get some great big trees. You’ll find a grove of Canary Island Date Palms, large Eucalyptus and Indian Laurel Fig trees. As part of Seaside Day Camp, campers plant and maintain an organic vegetable garden next to the building and there is a small organic fruit tree grove east of the garden.

Glen Park is organically managed under the City of Encinitas Organically Managed Park Pilot Project. The intent of this project is to introduce organic land stewardship practices designed to effectively manage landscape maintenance and employ Integrated Pest Management practices with an organic approach.

Glen Park is a great place to get out for some quick exercise with a few laps along the paths, since the park has plenty of hills. With easy parking, restrooms, plenty of shade and lots to do, it also makes for a great place to spend some time exploring with little ones

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife. To find out more about Seaside Day Camp, explore our Recreation Programs.

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Encinitas Town Center Hike

Here is a great little hike that starts and finishes at the Encinitas Ranch Town Center (Target shopping center), close to shopping and restaurants, so you can get in an errand or two and have a post-hike bike to eat or refreshments. Also, staging at Leo Mullen Sports Park, means you’ve got restrooms, a playground and plenty of room to stretch, warm-up or picnic. The hike route is 1.4 miles out and back, but don’t let the short distance fool you. You’ll earn every bit of the distance as the trail gains elevation from the start point up to the ridge line trail where sweeping views of Encinitas and the local mountains await (in one Parks and Recreation staff person’s opinion, the coolest views in all of Encinitas).

The route begins along the sidewalk heading uphill from Leo Mullen Sports Park at 951 Via Cantebria, then crosses the road to continue uphill towards Gardenview Drive. Along Gardenview, 100 feet to the north, you’ll cross the street at the pedestrian sign (use caution when crossing) then the trail will start climbing quickly. The surface of the trail can be tricky with some ruts this time of year after heavy rains, but is mostly sandy, and not muddy. Continue uphill at any junction and you will reach the Encinitas Ranch ridgeline trail. Once there, take in the awesome views and explore a bit before heading back.

As of this week, the foliage is as green and lush as it ever gets and many of the flowering plants are in bloom, with beautiful blues and purples. The sandstone bluffs bright up a deep orange when the sun is out. As cool looking as the bluffs are, please stay on the trail and out of closed areas for your safety. Also, as a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas Trails, they must stay on leash at all times.

Now get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Explore Downtown Encinitas

While there’s no wrong way to stroll the downtown area around Highway 101, a good plan is to pick either side of the Coast Highway and make a loop, heading south to Swami’s and heading back north to the Encinitas sign and La Paloma Theater. Be on the lookout for public art, that seems to be everywhere, in addition to amazing murals (especially in the alley between Coast Highway and 2nd St behind the 7-11 at D Street. There’s always something new to see downtown, and of course plenty of shopping and dining options.

Of course, the ocean’s only a couple of blocks away, and the City of Encinitas has THE BEST viewpoints and overlooks (C St., D St., H St., I St. and J St). Go check one out, you’ll be glad you did.

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Indian Head Canyon

Tucked away in the eastern part of lovely Leucadia you’ll find some amazing views and trails at Indian Head Canyon. Indian Head Canyon is a natural open space area packed full of approximately 6.5 miles of hiking, biking and walking trails, ranging from steep single track, to wide open double track paths. Enjoy the shade alongside a creek or work up a sweat hiking to the top of the trail area. Many of the trails have a relatively even surface, so any level of adventurer can experience this special place.

There are plenty of trails to check out within the area, but our recommendation is to take the main wide, double-track path away from the kiosk and loop counter-clockwise around the back of the main hill. As you climb higher and higher, notice the lush greenery helped by our recent winter rains. The higher you go, the more spectacular the views become. Once you reach the top and catch your breath, take some time to explore the various looping trails and interesting land forms. Looking north, you can see the Batiquitos Lagoon, and looking west you can see the Pacific ocean on a clear day. Returning to the start on the same trails will total approximately 2 miles, but you can add plenty more mileage by exploring around.

To get to Indian Head Canyon, head north from Leucadia Blvd, or south from La Costa Avenue onto Saxony Road, then turn on to Quail Hollow Drive and park along the curb.

Please exercise courtesy and share the trails with other users. Also, as a reminder, while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas Trails, they must stay on leash at all times.

Get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

Encinitas Community Park

Since Encinitas Community Park opened, people have used it as their go-to stroll or power-walk place. The walk itself is along wide pathways within the park, which is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. After the sun sets, the park still has security lighting on until 10pm, making this walk doable year-round in the evenings. The route we’re recommending is just over 1 mile from start to finish as an out-and-back loop. Along the way, here are some cool things that you’re almost always guaranteed to see:

• Happy dogs on their way to and from the dog park
• Happy kids having a ball at the playground, going skateboarding and playing sports
• Hundreds of trees and thousands of plants, including Torrey Pines and Aloe plants
• A meandering creek which was built as a bio-swale to naturally filter storm water runoff
• Paver bricks with fun and interesting quotes and messages

On a clear day, you can also catch a glimpse of the ocean when at the south end of the park. This is a great walk to put in your health and wellness routine, since it’s easy to access, there are plenty of people to see, and there are restrooms both at the start, halfway point and finish. To get to this route, access Encinitas Community Park from the Santa Fe Drive entrance at 425 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas. When you enter the park, head to the parking area straight ahead, closest to the dog park entrance. As Encinitas Magazine once said, “Encinitas Community Park is 44 Acres of Awesome.” We agree! Pack a picnic and make a day of it while you’re there.

Get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Swami's

A great walk is from Swami’s south to the Cardiff Kook and back, easily one of Encinitas most popular stretches. With brisk, clear weather, the views of the surf and sky are ideal.

The walk itself is all along wide asphalt sidewalks with nice separation from cars on the Coast Highway. Round-trip from Swami’s to the Cardiff Kook is just shy of 2.5 miles, making it a great training route for 5K run/walk events. Do be sure to keep your eyes up and stay alert, since there are usually plenty of runners and dog walkers along this walk. For an interesting twist, check the tides and cover this same stretch on the beach, using the Swami’s stairs and campground stairs for some extra calories burned!

The City of Encinitas has proudly maintained and operated Swami’s Beach and Park, one of Encinitas’ most iconic spots and among its most popular beach accesses since shortly after Encinitas incorporated as a City in 1986. Did you know that Encinitas Lifeguards are responsible for Encinitas’ beaches all the way from Grandview Beach at the north end of town, to just south of Swami’s Beach? Just north of the vehicle access at the north end of Cardiff campgrounds is where California State Park Lifeguards take over, managing and guarding the beaches from that point south to Solana Beach City limits near Seaside Reef.

Curb parking is usually available near Swami’s, on K Street, or park on the east side of the railroad tracks and use the awesome pedestrian underpass to easily get you under the tracks and to the crosswalk at Highway 101. The nice thing about this walk is that you have restrooms at both ends (Swami’s park and Cardiff State Beach campgrounds), and the grassy lawn at Swami’s park is a great place to warmup and stretch pre and post walk.

Get out there and enjoy! Share your experience with hashtags #WalkWednesday, #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife

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Encinitas Ranch Trails

Access a fun route by parking at Las Verdes park, located off of Quail Gardens Drive, north of Encinitas Blvd. Across the street from the park, spot the trailhead marker, then head counterclockwise heading north along the ridgeline then around and through Encinitas Ranch to complete an almost 5K loop back to where you began. 

We like this route for its unobstructed views to the east of the mountains. As the route leaves the ridgeline, you get a nice look at the Encinitas Ranch golf course and a return section that gives a nice look at what’s happening over at the Encinitas Community Garden.

Also, a reminder that while dogs make great hiking companions, on Encinitas Trails, they must stay on leash at all times. Enjoy! #ExploreEncinitas #EncinitasLife