Share a Gem . For the hotter days, hiking during the dawn or dusk when temperatures are at their coolest is the best option. Lake Hodges has six barbecues and 12 picnic tables, perfect for the whole family to enjoy. On an occasional rare year, there will be enough rainfall in Southern California to bring Lake Hodges to capacity. Actually, they are more of a walk than a hike, but they have just become some of my new favorites. Share a Photo . The lake is used for boating, fishing, and provides numerous hiking and sight seeing opportunities. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. 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 Overlook Trail is a 7.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Escondido, California that features a river and is rated as moderate. Dismiss. When full the capacity of Lake Hodges has a depth of 115 feet, 27 miles of shoreline, and covers 1,234 acres. Exit at Via Rancho Parkway and turn right. San Dieguito River Park . It is located in Escondido, California. It’s always a good idea to be aware of what type of hiking level you’re at. Trailforks ranks trails with a combination of user ratings and raw trail usage data from rides. Oct. 11, 2020. Lake Hodges is an artificial reservoir forming a large lake in San Diego County. Expert Hikers:  For a more difficult Lake Hodges hike, this trail can be combined to form a sixteen mile out and back hike. This lake is one of the few ever to produce a 20 lb class largemouth without a trout stock at the lake. 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. Summer at Lake Hodges can be extremely hot. We came upon an enormous patch of prickly pear cactus lining both sides of the trail. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. The second hike is the Lake Hodges Overlook Trail out of the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve in Escondido. Lake Hodges is deceivingly large and has something for everyone! The lake is positioned between unique mound shaped foothills covered with lush vegetation, oak and chaparral trees. “Hodges Reservoir.” The City of San Diego. Lake Hodges is known nationally for it's largemouth bass population. Share a Gem . N.a. To be honest, the first bit of the trail is a little disappointing. Turn right onto Sunset Drive, follow the road until it dead ends, the trail head and parking area will be on your right. Thanks for your contribution! Using DJI Mavic Air drone. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. Photography taker. Length 7.4 mi Elevation gain 374 ft Route type Out & back. Try the Olivenhain Dam trail from the Elfin Forest Preserve. San Dieguito River Park We had a long way to go still though so we didn’t pause for long. The relatively flat trails make this a great option for families. Emerging on the other side of the freeway, the trail turned north for a short way and the traffic noise resumed. The white pelicans are gorgeous, and when they are in the air they have a contrasting stripe of black under their wings. Add a Symbol . Web. We continued straight on the main trail. The San Dieguito River Parks North Shore trail system surrounds Lake Hodges in North County San Diego. The trail winds around the summit of Bernardo Mountain before coming to a terminating viewpoint. Publish Date. Various Authors. At one point the trail dipped down through a copse of oaks as it crossed a dry creek. Please explain. 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 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. At 2.67 miles we came to the start of the Lake Hodges Overlook Loop, where we could go either right or left. At 2.7 miles the Lake View trail branched off to the right. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Share on Hiking Project. But today, we … Or, when the lake is closed to boating, take a guided hike. At 2.25 miles there was a short spur trail on the left leading to a viewpoint overlooking the lake. At 3.45 miles we passed the other end of the Lake View trail as it rejoined the main trail. Most of the trails are relatively flat with rolling hills, but there are a few peaks you can climb as well. Lake Hodges is such a large source of water that it’s a great place for viewing wildlife. Dress accordingly. My best sighting ever was a bobcat! We stopped at the mid-way viewpoint and took our selfies for the challenge. It’s not uncommon for the majority of the summer to post high temepratures in the 90’s to 100’s. There was no vehicular traffic when I hiked but I’d imagine the cars to be a bit disappointing while on the hike. 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. Lake Hodges . 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. Keep dogs on leash, as urban coyotes are out at all hours. We continued straight. Hiking Lake Hodge’s bridge in Escondido, California with family, also on a side note my sons first hike. A little over a mile takes you to Del Dios Community Park, where the hike in this article ended. This takes you along the south portion of Lake Hodges. Due to Coronavirus, there may be local trail closures. Once past the Lake Hodges Recreation area the trail continues along the San Dieguito River Trail on a utilty road past the base of Bernardo Mountain. Music by Highly Suspect - My name is Human. Whatever you are doing right now….STOP! 35 in Hiking; Land Manager. We arrived at the trailhead before 7am, and it was already fairly crowded. Follow Hiking Holly on WordPress.com Categories. It’s also a reasonable turnaround point if you’re looking for a slightly shorter 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. Hiking Along Lake Hodges. Particularly Special Place. This is the most popular trail within the SDRP for recreation due to its level ground and close proximity to trailheads and staging areas. The river which empties at the San Dieguito Lagoon in Del Mar gathers steam from it’s origination along Volcan Mountain in Julian. Lake Hodges - North Side. The trail quickly bottomed out, then began switchbacking up the next hill. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. 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. Lake Hodges . The parking lot is off Interstate 15. 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. This is the video from San Pasqual at Clevenger Canyon and Lake Hodges both located in North County San Diego. “Hodges Reservoir Water Level.” Questions and Answeres. If the lot is full streetside parking is available. We made our way across the small wooden footbridge and found a tranquil spot with a bench just beyond. After the winter rains come the hills turn a vibrant green. The Lake Hodges Waterfall is not huge by any means, but still worth visiting and perhaps having a picnic at! 2 thoughts on “Hiking Lake Hodges on a Rainy Day” renae bowman says: March 24, 2019 at 2:52 pm. Back on the main trail we began to get a feel for exactly how large Lake Hodges really was. 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. The sun was getting stronger and we reached another fork in the road with an informational kiosk. There is a huge lake and a variety of birds. 2. The hike predominantly follows wider doubletrack, but there is some tighter singletrack for a couple of miles before you get to Lake Hodges Dam. From there the loop to the Lake Hodges overlook is about 2.32 miles long. Popular lures for bass here include plastic worms (6-12 inches), pig-n-jigs, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and of course live bait, especially crawdads. Thank you. Water District - San Diego. It was commissioned by the Volcan Water Company and designed by John S. Eastwood. 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. Lake Hodges is a large artificial lake that separates the city of San Diego from Escondido. just now. Lake Hodges Pedestrian Suspension Bridge: Good hiking, biking - See 62 traveler reviews, 30 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. Within the San Dieguito River Park, this affects Lake Hodges and Lake Sutherland. The Reserve is home to the Olivenhain Reservoir and is owned and operated by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. Lake Hodges Pedestrian Suspension Bridge: Daytime hiking - See 62 traveler reviews, 30 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. The boys took a break along the way to try their hand at grinding acorns. The City of San Diego purchased the dam and reservoir in 1925. Lake Hodges Guided Hike… The sound of the traffic overhead was slightly muffled as we passed underneath. 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. At 1.78 miles the trail leading up to the Bernardo Mountain Summit branched off to the right. 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 second option is to park along Lake Drive. Otherwise, make for an easy quick hike and a new experience. The best time of year to hike Lake Hodges in my opinon is during the winter and throughout the spring. Here, we turned right to head downhill towards the water, following the sign for Lake Hodges Overlook. Taking other people's content (text, photos, etc) without permission is a copyright violation and NOT OKAY! The lake record is 20 lbs 4 ozs. Is Social Media Ruining America’s National Parks? Near the trialhead the path is primarily composed of compacted soil. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. We continued on as the trail ascended a short hill. At 1.65 miles we found one of the few shaded areas of the trail where it crosses Felicita Creek. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. 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. The trail originates along a portion of the San Diguito River Park before leading to the southeast. 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. Around 1.1 miles we encountered an unmarked “Y” junction. Flag Inappropriate Post . There are two parking lots from which to choose. Looking for another nearby lake with views of Lake Hodges? Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes during the warmer months. 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. Lake Hodges Guided Hike Join naturalist Mike Kelly on our first hike from 4-S Ranch. North Shore Lake Hodges and Lake View Trail. For the focus of this article, the guide will be focusing on the Lake Hodges High trail. Within the San Dieguito River Park, this affects Lake Hodges and Lake Sutherland. I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. N.a. Dogs are … Outdoor lover. This route is a terrific option for families and hikers of all abilities as there are always options to stay on the level fire road with access to singletrack trails, too. Altogether this river is responsible for draining a large portion of the central San Diego watershed. Parking here will be right where a portion of the San Dieguito River trail runs along the lake. Turn right again at Sunset Dr. Share a Video . I was a bit concerned that the long holiday weekend would make the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded. It’s responsible for servicing thousands of citizens with potable water. At .9 miles we found a port-a-potty along the trail. For this hike, you simply follow the trail as it parallels West Bernardo Dr downhill towards the bridge. Lake Hodges viewpoint lake views. map, For more information, visit: Hodges Reservoir was created with the building of Hodges Dam on San Dieguito Creek in 1918. 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. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. During the spring and especially after a rainy year, there are a varity of wildflowers along this trail. Trailforks ranks trails with a combination of user ratings and raw trail usage data from rides. There are countless miles of trails around the lake. Fall and winter can be good options to explore here because the temperatures are cooler. Besides seeing lizards and birds, we also ran across some mule deers, which walked out of some brush. Lake Hodges Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge: Click here to see Construction Photos! A Guide To Hiking Skill Levels - What Type Of Hiker Are You? 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. We didn’t see any more trail markers, but before long a dirt path picked up on the left side of the road and once again we had some nice views of the lake. 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. The pavement gave way to hard-packed dirt and our surroundings started to feel more natural as the traffic hum slowly began to subside. Particularly Special Place. Another mile plus takes you to the boat dock. Share a Video . It’s always a good idea to check the weather before heading out on a hike. The lake is positioned between unique mound shaped foothills covered with lush vegetation, oak and chaparral trees. Do you have any updates to the hiking trail or want to share your hike/pictures? Trail entrance points are at either the Bernardo Summit trailhead or at the Lake Hodges Dam trailhead. Lake Hodges is a large artificial lake that separates the city of San Diego from Escondido. Lake Hodges Guided Hike, Drive-Thru Scream Zone Events October 17-October 21, 2020. Plenty of great photo opportunities. To one side was the noisy freeway, and to the other side was dense brush. Lake Hodges is one of San Diego's many water reservoirs, created in 1918 when the San Dieguito River was dammed. 25 trails with 233 photos Click on the trail name or directions to download a PDF file of the trail map or directions for where to park. ER nurse. 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. 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. Just beyond was the stress-ribbon bridge spanning the lake and a bike repair station. While its convenient location means you'll be amid freeways and homes for much the hike, they're far enough away… Lake Hodges Hike 3-8-19. There are a few spots of pavement that travel parallel to the road into the recreational area. Lake Hodges. The right fork appeared to lead up to the residential area on the hill above. A bald eagle was seen fairly often last year. Add a Symbol . 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. It’s also the best time to see wildlife before they seek shelter from the heat. 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. Virtual Tour of Lake Hodges Overlook Trail. https://www.sandiego.gov/reservoirs-lakes/hodges-reservoir. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. Unfortunately, they ran back into cover before I could snap a photo. There were benches in the middle of the bridge where you can sit and enjoy the view of the lake. We stayed left on the main trail. We wanted to hike straight through, so once we passed through the gate we headed straight ahead through the parking lot until we saw a sign guiding us to the right. Thank you. A wide range of water activities are allowed at the park, including fishing, boating, canoeing, tubing, and paddleboarding. If you want to see Lake Hodges, this trail will take you on a tour of the whole North Shore. There are numerous hiking trails along the shore’s of this lake. Escondido California USA. 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. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. The reservoir is fed by San Dieguito Creek and features one of the largest watersheds of all the local reservoirs. For a trail with no shade along the path the heat and sun can be brutal. The best & most popular mountain biking trails in Lake Hodges. Our primary stop was Lake Hodges. A narrow bike path/use trail follows along Lake Hodges way until the recreational area. Go hike these trails! 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. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. The Lake Hodges high trail runs just over six miles along lake’s northern shore. When full, the reservoir has 1,234 acres, a maximum water depth of 115 feet and 27 miles of shoreline. It was completed in 1918, and later purchased by the city of San Diego. The dam’s construction took place along a downstream portion of the San Dieguito River along the Del Dios Gorge. Spam? ... You get a different view of Lake Hodges and the surrounding hills and terrain at different point on the bridge. Hiking with Holly (59) Off Trail Adventures (12) Off Trail Musings (11) Faith (5) Marriage (4) Tags. In addition to storing water, Lake Hodges is an important habitat for resident and migratory birds. Lake Hodges: Great Hiking Peaceful & Tranquil - See 6 traveler reviews, 8 candid photos, and great deals for Escondido, CA, at Tripadvisor. Be respectful towards any residents that life in the area. The city will announce when they do this. Numerous mountain bikers were saddling up, and hikers with their dogs were setting off down the trail. Around 3.6 miles we came to the edge of the parking lot at the Lake Hodges Boat Launch area. Watch for bright acorn woodpeckers near the concession building at the boat dock. Water District - San Diego. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. We reached the top of the small incline and finally got a decent view of the lake. The lake is open Wednesdays, Saturdays and … There are many hiking opportunities in the area, but this is a short hike that crosses the bridge and provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. Leashed dogs are allowed at Lake Hodges, the city said. The City of San Diego purchased the dam and reservoir in 1925. There are many trailheads that start at various places around the lake. Lake Hodges is one of San Diego’s many water reservoirs, created in 1918 when the San Dieguito River was dammed. Dogs are allowed. The history of Lake Hodges dates back as far as 1918 when it was initially constructed. Directions: 3. The North Shore Lake Hodges trail is listed as an easy to moderate, just over 7 miles hike. Lake Hodges is closed for the winter season. For more information, please visit the city’s official website. *** 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. Go east on Via Rancho Parkway 1 block to Sunset Drive. 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). We started off down the paved walkway. I believe the boat launch is only open certain days of the week, so I would plan ahead. If you ever have the opportunity to see this happen, check it out. Time to Complete: Give yourself about 3-4 hours. 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. Hiker. The boys and I went for a nice hike over the pedestrian bridge and along the shore of Lake Hodges. There is also a pipeline thar runs form Olivenhain Dam to the lake that can generate enough electricity to power 26,000 homes. list; poi; map; Mountain Bike. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The topography changes … 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. Fishing and birdwatching are popular activities at the lake as well. *** 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. Lake Hodges is still somewhat of a undiscovered gem in North County for anyone who enjoys fishing, hiking, cycling or even just nature in general. The hills surrounding the reservoir are primarily coastal sage… The Lake Hodges high trail runs just over six miles along lake’s northern shore. This trail is a portion of the San Dieguito River Park and trail system. It’s not uncommon to pass bikers who are also using the trail. Google Earth Lake Hodges Overlook Trail Total Distance: The whole trail is about 7.5 miles long, out and back. Learn more about Leave No Trace Principles and minimizing your impact in the outdoors. Share on Hiking Project. At .45 miles, the trail bent west as it passed under the freeway. Trail Map 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. As the brush to the left thinned out somewhat, we were able to see the sun coming up over the hills in the east. Hodges Reservoir was created with the building of Hodges Dam on San Dieguito Creek in 1918. Exercise enthusiast. Lake Hodges Dam is a multiple-arch dam that sits on the San Dieguito River. For the focus of this article, the guide will be focusing on the Lake Hodges High trail. Western and Clark’s grebes are already coming back in number; look for their rushing display, where a pair of grebes rears up and runs, side by side, across the surface of the water without even moving their wings. On the south flank of Bernardo Mountain there will be a turn off to the right along the wooden fence that follows the trail. The trail is primarily used for hiking, horses, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Kayaking, canoeing, boating, and fishing are available on the lake. My Time:  1 hour 52 minutes moving; 2 hours 20 minutes total. Lake Hodges was formed by the completion of the Hodges Dam in 1918. Notable views along this hike include Mount Woodson, Palomar Mountain, and the famous Lake Hodges pedestrian footbridge. This is a huge lake with biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and boating. Thank you for these (Hodges and Warner) postings!! Today the dam is operated and maintained by the City of San Diego Public Utility Department. This watershed traverses a 55 mile corridor across the county, eventually flowing into the Pacific Ocean at the San Dieguito Lagoon in…. 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. The David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge is along the Coast to Crest Trail. The David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge is the longest stress-ribbon bridge in the world. We finally caught a glimpse of some water in the lake just before the trail turned north. A valid California Fishing License is required. In order to to prevent dam failure, the city will release thousands of gallons of water to make room for runoff. And a new experience views along this hike, trail running trails near Escondido, California spots of that. Waterfall is not huge by any means, but we decided to save further exploration another. Easy quick hike and a variety of birds proximity to trailheads and staging areas,! Lions during the winter and throughout the spring and especially after a Rainy Day ” renae bowman says March! Directions for where to park along lake Drive to capacity for where to park along lake Drive are hiking! 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Freeway, the city of San Diego lot with small visitor center, water,... Construction took place along a portion of the lake was completely unfounded either Bernardo! Was a bit disappointing while on the left leading to the hiking trail or to. Oak and chaparral trees for bright acorn woodpeckers near the trialhead the path heat... All the local reservoirs trail out of some water in the scenic California inland valleys feel more as! A small parking lot at the lake Hodges Overlook was already fairly crowded the Bernardo there... Via Rancho Parkway 1 block to Sunset Drive Clevenger Canyon and lake Hodges, you simply follow the.!, eventually flowing into the recreational area the trail and Rancho Bernardo short... Freeway, and restrooms at the park crowded by my concern was completely unfounded visitor center, water fill and. At different point on the lake Hodges of year to hike lake,. And features one of San Diego, tubing, and covers 1,234 acres, a maximum depth. California inland valleys is Social Media Ruining America ’ s a moderately difficult, 6.4-mile trail that ’ s a... East on Via Rancho Parkway exit large artificial lake that separates the of... The best & most popular Mountain biking and hiking trails, geocaches, fishing, and provides hiking! Another mile plus takes you to the west will look across the small and!