San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail: Length, Segments, and Planning Your Journey

How long is the San Dieguito trail?

The San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail, an ambitious project within the San Dieguito River Park, is planned to span approximately 70 miles from the Pacific Ocean at Del Mar to Volcan Mountain near Julian. While not yet fully contiguous, a substantial and growing portion of this multi-use trail is open for public enjoyment across various segments.

Understanding the San Dieguito River Park Coast to Crest Trail

The San Dieguito River Park is a vast conservation area in San Diego County, California, dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural resources of the San Dieguito River Valley. Central to its mission is the development of the Coast to Crest Trail, a visionary project designed to provide a continuous recreational pathway from the coast to the inland mountains. This trail is not merely a single path but a complex network of interconnected segments, each offering unique experiences and challenges.

The Definitive Answer: Trail Length

The San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail is envisioned as a continuous 70-mile pathway. It stretches from the mouth of the San Dieguito River at the Pacific Ocean in Del Mar, eastward through diverse landscapes, ultimately reaching Volcan Mountain, east of Julian.

It is crucial to understand that while the planned length is 70 miles, the currently open and contiguous mileage can vary. The trail is an ongoing project, with new segments being acquired, designed, and constructed over time. Therefore, while you cannot currently hike or bike all 70 miles in a single uninterrupted journey, a significant and ever-increasing portion is accessible. Users often experience the trail in distinct segments, each offering its own character and length.

Key Segments and Their Characteristics

The Coast to Crest Trail traverses a wide array of ecosystems, offering varied experiences across its segments. While a full breakdown of every small section is beyond the scope here, major conceptual areas include:

• Coastal Plain & Lagoon (Del Mar to I-5):
  • Length: Approximately 2-3 miles.
  • Terrain/Difficulty: Predominantly flat, paved or well-maintained dirt paths. Easy.
  • Highlights/Features: Scenic views of the San Dieguito Lagoon, birdwatching opportunities, accessible for all ages.
  • Best Uses: Walking, jogging, easy cycling.
• San Pasqual Valley (Near Escondido/Santa Ysabel):
  • Length: Varies significantly by specific segment, but substantial mileage.
  • Terrain/Difficulty: Generally flat to gently rolling hills, dirt trails. Easy to moderate.
  • Highlights/Features: Agricultural landscapes, historic sites, connections to other regional trails.
  • Best Uses: Hiking, mountain biking, equestrian use.
• Inland Foothills & Mountains (East of Santa Ysabel to Volcan Mountain):
  • Length: This is where the most challenging and remote segments are found.
  • Terrain/Difficulty: Significant elevation gains, rugged and technical dirt trails. Moderate to strenuous.
  • Highlights/Features: Panoramic views, oak woodlands, chaparral, true wilderness experience.
  • Best Uses: Experienced hiking, mountain biking (on designated sections), equestrian use.

What to Expect: Terrain and Environment

The diversity of the San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail is one of its most appealing features. Expect to encounter:

• Surface Types: A mix of paved pathways, compacted dirt trails, sandy stretches, and rocky, uneven terrain, particularly in the eastern sections.
• Elevation Changes: While coastal sections are flat, the trail gradually increases in elevation as it heads eastward, culminating in significant climbs towards Volcan Mountain.
• Ecosystems: From coastal wetlands and riparian corridors along the river to chaparral, sage scrub, oak woodlands, and higher elevation forests.
• Climate: San Diego's sunny climate means ample sun exposure is common. Inland sections can experience significantly higher temperatures in summer and cooler, even freezing, conditions in winter mornings.

Accessibility and Trail Use

The San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail is designed as a multi-use trail, welcoming a variety of activities:

• Hikers and Walkers: Permitted on all open segments.
• Cyclists: Allowed on most segments, though some narrower, more sensitive, or very steep sections may be restricted to hiking or require advanced mountain biking skills. Always check signage.
• Equestrians: Welcome on many of the inland and valley segments, particularly where trails are wider and less congested.
• Dogs: Generally permitted on leash, but specific rules may apply in certain protected areas or preserves. Always check current regulations.

Numerous trailheads and access points are available along the trail's length, making it easy to access specific segments for shorter outings. Parking is often available, though it can be limited at popular spots.

Planning Your Journey

Embarking on any segment of the San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail requires thoughtful preparation, especially given its length and varied conditions.

• Preparation is Key:
  • Hydration: Always carry ample water, especially during warmer months. Water sources are scarce along many segments.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential due to consistent sun exposure.
  • Footwear: Wear appropriate footwear for the terrain – comfortable walking shoes for paved sections, sturdy hiking boots for rugged trails.
  • Layered Clothing: Even in San Diego, temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, especially from coast to inland.
• Navigation:
  • While the trail is generally well-marked, carrying a map (physical or digital) is highly recommended. The San Dieguito River Park provides detailed maps on its website.
  • Cell service can be spotty in more remote sections.
• Safety and Etiquette:
  • Share the Trail: Be courteous to other users. Yield to equestrians, and cyclists should yield to hikers.
  • Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in.
  • Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of local wildlife, including rattlesnakes, coyotes, and various bird species.
  • Inform Others: If undertaking a longer or more remote segment, inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

The Vision: A Coast-to-Crest Masterpiece

The San Dieguito Coast to Crest Trail represents a monumental effort in conservation and public recreation. Its ultimate completion will offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse natural beauty and ecological significance of San Diego County, providing a lasting legacy for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts. While the full 70-mile journey awaits its final connections, the existing segments offer abundant opportunities for exploration, fitness, and connection with nature.