Coastal Hikes

Hiking at San Elijo Lagoon

Hiking at Lake Hodges

CV Hikers Club

CV residents can enjoy a monthly hike to various San Diego county locations. Destinations will vary according to the weather and temperatures, but options include the coastal trails with ocean breezes, as well as inland trails that trek to beautiful lakes or mountaintop vistas. Most trails have a variety of terrain and elevation changes to accommodate hikers who may prefer a challenge, and those who prefer to enjoy a more level nature walk.

Hikers usually enjoy 1-1/2 to 2 hours of nature, and we also offer the option of gathering at a nearby eatery for lunch where future hiking destinations are discussed. Carpooling is usually available, if needed. Come enjoy the outdoors with us!

The CV Hikers ventured out to the Wilderness Gardens Preserve in Pala on Tuesday, December 12, and had a great hike on a gorgeous day. The Preserve is a riparian hike (land next to a river) along the San Luis Rey River. As we hiked, there was a pond and the foundation of an 1880 gristmill with its wheel. The area is also known for exceptional birding. After the hike we had iconic hamburgers and BBQ at an Old 395 hangout. Come out and join us on the second Wednesday of each month.

In October 2023, CV Hikers had a great local outing at Daley Ranch via the “back way” through Hidden Meadows/Cougar Pass Road to the northernmost trailhead (Cougar Pass). Some hikers tackled the strenuous Cougar Ridge / Engelman Oak loop trail, a true huff n’ puff, 4-mile rocky uphill trail. But they did it! Others enjoyed the dirt road hike from the trailhead down to North Broadway and back up. 

In Sept 2023, CV Hikers experienced one of San Diego’s iconic hikes: “Annie’s Canyon”. It’s part of the San Elijo Lagoon Preserve and the slot canyon challenge. 

It’s always a fun hike and everyone marveled at the views of the coast and lagoon. A terrific lunch at a coastal beer garden was ‘on tap’ (pun intended) and the food and brews were exceptional.

In July 2023, CV Hikers enjoyed a picturesque hike in the San Dieguito River Park in Del Mar. The lagoon wildlife was a great addition, along with an osprey nest by the horse track.

It was a nice hike on smooth, level trails at a cooler coastal location. We had good exercise, and a fun lunch at a beachside Mexican restaurant in Cardiff. Come out and join us on the second Wednesday of each month. Next up is Annie’s Canyon (another coastal hike) and a bier garden lunch. 

The July 2022 hike, pictured right, began at the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, North Rios Avenue trailhead.

This hike included Annie’s Canyon trail, which is a popular 2-mile loop, dirt trail, rated easy to moderate. Don’t be put off by the steep canyon and steps. There are many alternate trails that stay quite level and can have the same viewing.

Come join us!