As one of Anza-Borrego State Park’s most popular hikes, The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail is one of the best options for hiking in Borrego Springs. The trail leads to a lush oasis in the desert. At a 3-miles round trip, this hike is family-friendly and a great option any time of the year. Due to the water in the area, this hike is a top pick when exploring Anza Borrego wildflowers. Stop by the State Park Visitor Center to pick up the trail guide before you head out.
The Borrego Palm Canyon trail begins just north of the State Park Visitor Center, at the end of the paved road in Borrego Palm Campground. There is ample parking at the end of the campground for this trailhead. However, parking in this area does require a $10/day-use fee payable by machine in the area.
The trail from the parking lot leads you into Borrego Palm Canyon. The canyon can get very hot depending on when you are visiting. Make sure you have more water than you think you need. I also recommend packing a picnic from a favorite spot in Borrego Springs to enjoy when you reach the top of the canyon.
HIKING BORREGO PALM CANYON
We hiked this trail during the super bloom of 2017, so the wildflowers are abundant. You can read more about our strategy for enjoying wildflowers and avoiding crowds during super bloom years here. Our son was three at the time, so we opted for our Osprey pack, and it was an excellent choice for this trail. It gave us a great mix on the hike. Our son had ample opportunity to wander himself but also time to rest with sun protection as the heat picked up later in the morning.
The trail is well-marked, with rocks lining the way to the canyon. There is a reason this hike is so popular, especially in spring, which is pretty clear in my photos! The water in the area makes this a hub of animal and plant activity. If you are hiking early, make sure to look for bighorn sheep and other animals in the area. Borrego Springs hiking offers an abundance of desert plants, but Borrego Palm Canyon pops with color in spring!
You will cross over the creek bed a few times during the hike. Spring brings water that can make the trek even more adventurous for little kids. Water in the desert is always a fun sight to see. The scenery is beautiful.
The area surrounding the palm oasis makes for a great picnic stop. Although the palm oasis is currently closed (Spring 2021) due to fire restoration, the area surrounding it is worth the hike! This hike allows you to enjoy California’s only native palm in its natural habitat.
After enjoying the oasis for a bit, we could tell the trail was getting more crowded. Finally, the sun started blazing the temperatures began to rise, so we headed back out of the canyon. We were thrilled our son could cool down with water and rest in the shade of our Osprey Poco. The hike out of the canyon was beautiful, and we felt so fortunate to enjoy it during a super bloom.
TURN YOUR HIKE INTO A BORREGO SPRINGS DAY TRIP
Borrego Springs hiking is rewarding scenery any time of year, but wildflower season takes it to another level. I highly recommend you enjoy this 3-mile out and back trail with your family! Give yourself at least 2 hours to enjoy and a bit more if you plan to picnic. If you enjoy the trail in the morning, plan a trip into Borrego Springs for lunch. Then, you can take the triangle driving tour out of town in the afternoon!
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
We only had our Subaru for two weeks before I planned our adventure to explore some off-road adventures in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Adventure awaits with over 500 miles of 4WD sandy roads and washes in the Anza-Borrego desert. I had read about the wind caves and knew our son would love exploring the nooks and crannies that await. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover all the details you need to take your crew on this memorable trip to explore the wind caves!
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE TO THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES
The Anza-Borrego Wind Caves make for an incredible adventure with kids. It reminded me of driving through Radiator Springs to the planet of Batuu, also known as Disney’s Cars and Star Wars Lands. We had a great time, but I do want to stress you NEED TO BE PREPARED for this adventure. 4WD or AWD is a must, as is a high-clearance vehicle due to the rocks scattered on the sandy road. ALWAYS check in on the road and weather conditions at the State Park Visitor Center before heading out on an off-road adventure.
DRIVING TO THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES
As I mentioned above, you should always check in with the State Park Visitor Center about road conditions and weather before heading out. Volunteers at the Visitor Center will have the most updated information and give you a map of the park.
Follow directions for the Triangle Tour down Borrego Springs Road towards the Texas Dip. At Highway 78, head east towards Slot Canyon. Continue driving east on Highway 78 until you reach the town of Ocotillo Wells. There is only one paved road in Ocotillo Wells off Highway 78, Split Mountain. Head south on Split Mountain Road, about 8 miles, until the paved road turns to dirt. You will see Fish Creek Wash on your right- this is your road! The trail is 4-miles down the sandy wash.
OFF-ROAD SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
The Anza-Borrego Wind Caves made for a great family adventure. We took less than 3 hours for the off-road and hiking adventure, starting at Fish Creek Wash. It takes about an hour from the Anza-Borrego Visitor Center to get to the wash. To relax and not be worried about time, I would plan five hours if you are coming from and returning to Borrego Springs.
Our son had a great time, and we did too. As I mentioned, it was nerve-wracking getting out there because it was our first off-roading adventure in Anza-Borrego. However, this was an excellent pick for our first off-road adventure as there were many people out on the wash to offer assistance if we had a problem.
However, I cannot stress the importance of the following enough:
Check with the State Park Visitor Center about CURRENT road and weather conditions
Pack plenty of water
Have snacks with you
Remember you will have no cell service
Make sure someone knows you are heading out there
Screenshot directions, this post, etc. for your reference
If planning a less traveled wash, have a shovel, flares, tools and blankets with you.
If you are stuck or broken down, pop your hood and wait. Others will notice you by your vehicle more than if you wander into the desert alone.
Know sunset times before you head out to plan accordingly.
FISH CREEK WASH
At first, I was hesitant to begin driving down the wash. However, several cars were coming in and out, so I knew we were in the right place. We started reasonably slow as it was our first off-roading adventure in our new car. After a short distance, about 1.4 miles, we reached the Fish Creek primitive campground. This area has vault toilets that you can use if needed.
After the campground, the canyon begins to narrow. Jeeps and trucks exiting the narrow canyon area were tearing out of the wash super fast! It was a little overwhelming at first. There was some aggressive 4WD action at this point of the drive wash. We noticed campers creating a stack of rocks in the center of the wash to slow drivers through the narrowing canyon. The mountain walls begin to rise above you. You feel like you are driving through Radiator Springs. It was exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. I don’t have many pictures of this portion of the drive. I focused on watching my husband drive and hoping we did not get stuck in the sand or hit a massive rock!
PARK & HIKE THE WIND CAVES TRAIL
The Wind Caves trail comes up on the left side when the canyon walls of the wash open up. There is ample parking on the right side of this open area. The second picture below looks back on the parking area and gives you an idea of how open the road gets. There are some rocky areas of the drive leading up to this area, so take your time and go slow. We saw a Jeep get stuck on a boulder in front of the parking area.
The Wind Caves trail is labeled with a sign as you start to hike up the hill. The trail out is 1-mile and heads up four steep, rocky hills. Make sure you bring water! At some points, a few trails branch off of the main trail, but they all lead to the same place.
EXPLORE THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES
When you come over the final peak, you can see the massive sandstone formation of the Wind Caves down in front of you. Our son was so excited to begin exploring. It looks like you are in the middle of a Star Wars movie. The view of the Carrizo Badlands is spectacular. We took some time to relax in the shade of some of the caves to drink some water and feed the baby. Then we set out to explore.
Our son had a great time climbing around and through the Wind Caves. The views are jaw-dropping, and the shade around the caves makes it a great adventure for kids of all ages. Our son’s imagination began running wild as he explored all around the beauty of the Anza-Borrego desert and Wind Caves.
I wanted to catch the sunset in Galleta Meadows, so as the afternoon sun started moving, we knew it was time to get going. So we headed down the 1-mile trail back to the car. The hike back seemed much faster as it was all downhill this time! We were grateful to be in hiking boots that helped steady us on the rocky downhill terrain. However, we did pass a group of 15 or so in flip-flops drinking beers heading up, so I guess anything goes! You can see in my pictures that the trail is quite rocky.
LEAVING THE WIND CAVES
Once we were back to the car, we started the 4-mile drive back to the paved Split Mountain Road. I was much more relaxed for this portion of the drive and was able to snap a few more pictures to give you an idea of what it is like driving between the canyon walls in the sandy wash.
When we reached the end of the off-roading portion of our drive from the Anza-Borrego Wind Caves, my husband had some fun driving a little faster through the final sandy areas. Now we understood why some people were tearing out of the canyon. It is kind of fun to know you have made it through the rocky adventures and only have a short way back to the paved road. Our son loved waving his arms out of the window as we finished our drive out of the wash. On the left, the paved road of Split Mountain Road takes you back to regular driving as you exit the wash.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
Are you looking for an Anza-Borrego driving tour as a comfortable and accessible option to see the beauty of the desert? The Triangle Tour is a great way to see a lot without taking a massive hike or long 4WD trip into the desert landscape. This scenic drive is an incredible way to take the kids out to see the geology and changing landscape of Anza-Borrego State Park. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we’ll cover all you need to know to enjoy this scenic driving tour!
I love the Triangle Tour scenic drive because it gives you ample opportunity to get out and stretch your legs. The drive has options for several short hikes, overlooks, a campground picnic area, and a short road for off-roading if you desire. The accompanying trail guides will give your kids historical information and geology facts they will connect with come third and fourth grade. Grab a picnic in town to enjoy during your drive. If you want to leave town through Julian, this Anza-Borrego driving tour is the perfect scenic route out of town. We took about three hours for the drive, stops, short hikes, and a relaxing picnic.
STOP 1 – ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER
The Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center put together the information on this drive. Before heading out, you can pick up the map, information, and the corresponding trail guides at the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center. Make sure to enjoy the area surrounding the Visitor Center when you stop in. You can read this post for more about enjoying the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center. Once you are ready to go, head south down Borrego Springs Road.
STOP 2 – TEXAS DIP
This first highlight is not a stop but the 1.1-mile long piece of the road you are driving on. The road “dips” to cross through the biggest wash in the park – the San Felipe Wash. This is not a place I would want to be during desert rains and flash floods. Apparently, this wash drains to the Salton Sea, over 25 miles away! Our son has loved this portion of Borrego Springs Road for years because of, “Mom! The dips!” It is a mini roller coaster for him. Shortly after the Texas Dip, turn right on Highway 78. Take the highway 4 miles and watch for the small Narrows Earth Trail sign on your left.
STOP 3 – NARROWS EARTH TRAIL
The Narrows Earth Trail is an easy stop on this Anza-Borrego driving tour. This simple .5 mile loop is very flat and BOB stroller-friendly. It does not take long to explore. We parked on the side of the road by the trail sign and were able to see our car the entire time. Although the loop stayed close to the highway, we still felt like we were venturing out into the desert landscape. We used the self-guided trail brochure from the visitor center to learn more about the area’s geology.
This short trail is a geological gem. If you have a fourth-grader studying the changes in geologic formations, this is a great place to check out. There are many cactus varieties on the trail as well. This is also a place you may be able to see bighorn sheep. We drove by the trail at first and had to spin around on the highway. You can see in pictures how small the sign is.
STOP 4 – MINE WASH ROAD
This short 4WD road is only 1.6-miles from an ancient Kumeyaay Native American village. According to the park directions, you drive 1.8-miles from the Narrows Earth Trail and turn down the dirt road on your left. Sadly, we missed the 4WD road and decided to continue. However, if your child is in third grade and studying the local Kuymeyaay, this ancient village is worth a stop. I will update you here when we return.
STOP 5 – TAMARISK CAMPGROUND & THE CACTUS LOOP TRAIL
This campground makes for a great stop during your Anza-Borrego driving tour. The campground facilities are available, making this an excellent bathroom stop. There is a $10 day-use fee to park inside the campground. However, there is usually ample parking on the street. The campground also has picnic areas if you want to take a break and picnic with facilities.
THE CACTUS LOOP TRAIL
Directly across from the campground is the trailhead for the Cactus Loop Trail. This is a beautiful trail to explore as it is a short 1-mile loop and gives you an unclose view of a variety of cactus plants. If your children are young and like to run ahead or wander off-trail, this would be a trail to skip as there are cacti all around. However, our son loved it and enjoyed climbing around and staring up at the tall Ocotillo plants.
This trail is another area to look up for bighorn sheep. They tend to be spotted on the mountain ridge above. We picked up the Cactus Loop Trail Guide from the State Park Visitor Center and enjoyed reading about each numbered area along the loop.
STOP 6 – WILLIAM KENYON OVERLOOK
As you leave the Tamarisk Grove Campground, you leave the valley and climb up Yaqui Pass Road. The scenery begins to change dramatically. There is a pullout on the right-hand side to enjoy the view of the valley floor, but I HIGHLY recommend driving a bit more to the William Kenyon Overlook trail.
The trailhead is on the right-hand side of the road along a pullout area. It is hard to see, but know that you passed it if you end up at the Yaqui Pass Primitive Campground. You can park and hike from the campground, but it adds a mile to your hike out. So we flipped around and parked at the pullout to keep a one-mile round trip hike to the William Kenyon Overlook. Although you need to hike up the hill to get to the William Kenyon Overlook, it is only 1/2 a mile and well worth the effort!
The William Kenyon Overlook Trail is an excellent place for kids to explore. The trail is wide, so the worries about the cactus being close are not a big concern. If you journey early in the morning, chances are you will catch bighorn sheep doing on the mountain. We enjoyed our picnic from this overlook. Our son had fun trying to find some bighorn sheep, but we were unsuccessful. Next time!
At this point, you have finished the Triangle Tour but do have two options to complete your Anza-Borrego scenic drive. If you are staying in Anza-Borrego longer, you can continue enjoying the scenery and continue driving up Yaqui Pass Road back to Borrego Springs and the State Park Visitor Center.
Or, you can head back down to the 78 and leave the park from here. We love this drive as a scenic way out to town, so from here, we head back down Yaqui Pass Road to the 78 and head into Julian.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
Blooming Anza-Borrego wildflowers will enrich any desert visit. California wildflowers are beautiful to see all across the state, but the Anza-Borrego Desert is known for showing off in Spring. The typical sandy landscape is transformed into a carpet of vibrant colors during historical “super bloom” seasons. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover all you need to know about enjoying the Anza-Borrego wildflowers.
I highly recommend planning a visit during wildflower Spring blooms. Wildflower blooms begin in February and peak in mid-March through April. I also like to check the Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association’s current wildflower update to know what is going on in the park before we head out.
Depending on the level of rain during the previous winter, in combination with colder temperatures (that hold the moisture in the ground), a potential “super bloom” can cover the valley floor. We had a great visit during the 2017 super bloom. More on that visit and strategy for super bloom weekends below.
WHERE CAN I SEE THE WILDFLOWERS?
Anza-Borrego wildflowers bloom throughout the park in Spring, but some areas are known to pop with extra color. These are our favorite places to view the blooms.
ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER WILDFLOWERS
I always recommend checking in with the Visitor Center before visiting Anza-Borrego to ask about current conditions. However, this is an especially convenient strategy as the Visitor Center landscape is one of the best places to see the Anza-Borrego wildflowers!
BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL WILDFLOWERS
As one of Anza-Borrego State Park’s most popular hikes, The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail leads to a lush oasis in the desert. At a 3-miles round trip, this hike is family-friendly and a great option any time of the year. In addition, due to the water in the area, this hike is a top pick when exploring Anza Borrego wildflowers. You can read this post for more about the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail.
DESERT MEADOW ALONG HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
The open desert landscape becomes a beautiful meadow during wildflower season. The surrounding mountains and flowers that seem to go on forever make this a fun place to explore. In addition, when other areas like the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead have no parking available, these meadows are accessible by just pulling over on the side of the road.
DESERT MEADOW ALONG DIGIORGIO ROAD
This is another meadow we love that is easily accessible by pulling off the side of the road. These meadows are especially great with kids, as they can hop out of the car and roam. They also make for some beautiful pictures with your kids.
HOW CAN I ENJOY A VISIT DURING SUPERBLOOM?
DO NOT SPEND HOURS WAITING IN TRAFFIC, FOR PARKING, FOR MEALS, ETC.
Super bloom years, like 2017 and 2019, draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Borrego Springs searching for the colorful blooms blanketing the desert floor. In 2017, visitors to Anza-Borrego were at an all-time high, and traffic was horrendous. What usually takes about 10 minutes coming down the hill was backed up over two hours. Parking for one of the best places to see blooms, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, was packed full by 8 am. Here is our strategy for a successful family trip to see the Anza-Borrego super bloom.
SUNRISE ARRIVAL
We are NOT morning people, but after reading about how impacted Borrego Springs was by all of the visitors, I knew we needed to take a more drastic approach to our visit. So we left North County San Diego around 4:30 am, with the goal of parking shortly after sunrise. It was very early, but we had just moved our son in pajamas, and he continued sleeping in the car. We packed had a picnic packed to avoid the hours of waiting we had read about in town.
Although the majority of the drive was in the dark, as we came over the hill, the sun began to rise. The drive into the desert is something I always love, but this time was even more spectacular. Our excitement was building, knowing we would soon be some of the first to explore.
HIKE BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL
Our early morning strategy did not disappoint. We pulled into the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead with ease as the sun began shining over the valley. Although shortly after 6:30 am, cars were already filling in behind us. We headed out into one of the best places to view Anza-Borrego wildflowers, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail. You can read more about this trail here.
Due to our early arrival, we were leaving the trail shortly after 9 am. This also allowed us to beat the desert heat that was starting to pick up. The backup to get down the hill and into the parking area for the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trail was VERY long and looked incredibly frustrating. We knew immediately that our early arrival was key.
EXPLORE AND PICNIC IN THE DIGIORGIO ROAD AND HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
After our hike, we headed out to the meadows on DiGiorgio Road and Henderson Canyon. The rangers at the Visitor Center told us that these were some of the best spots to see the wildflowers. In addition, they make an easy stop with kids because you can pull off on the side of the road. We were able to have our late morning picnic lunch here as well. I HIGHLY recommend packing a picnic as the lines in town during super blooms are VERY frustrating.
LEAVE TOWN BEFORE THE AFTERNOON CROWDS AND HEAT PICK UP
At this point, you will have been up almost 8 hours and hiked over 3 miles. As the afternoon heat and crowds pick up, you will probably find that trying to do more will flip the mood of your trip. We recommend leaving town on the 78 towards Julian and stopping in for a beverage when you get there. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the daffodils blooming near the Julian Library and Wynola Pizza.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
Less than two hours away from San Diego, Anza-Borrego State Park is the largest State Park in California. The desert is an exciting and beautiful place to escape as a family and explore for the day. Some may wonder what to do in the Anza-Borrego desert. The goal of our guide is to show you that time in the desert is time well spent! With over 100 miles of paved road and five times that in 4WD roads to explore, Anza-Borrego State Park is sure to quench your thirst for adventure.
Our family-friendly guide will help you decide what to do in Anza-Borrego. Check out all of the adventures to help you plan a perfect experience for your family. You can spend the day exploring the art scene in Borrego Springs, off-roading to some incredible landforms (4WD required), hiking a variety of unique trails, or taking scenic drives along the highway with short stops along the way. Watching the sun go down under the cotton candy skies of Borrego Springs is a must-do for all. Not to mention the stars that come out at night! Wildflowers are abundant in spring and should not be missed. So, let’s get started planning your next adventure!
Anza-Borrego State Park is about an hour and 45 minutes from San Diego. Although a bit of a longer stretch, you can do it in a few different ways. No matter the route you choose, coming down the hill into the desert is spectacular.
FROM SAN DIEGO
The highlighted route that heads through Ramona is how most GPS will take you to Anza-Borrego State Park from San Diego. This route almost takes you into Julian, but you turn off Highway 78 in Santa Isabel. We have gone this way several times, and it is a pretty direct and scenic route.
If you live in East County San Diego, you can also head through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park into Julian. You will then head east on Highway 78 to enter Anza-Borrego State Park. This route provides exciting scenery, including Lake Cuyamaca, but the roads are very windy and not ideal for anyone prone to carsick.
I love to leave Anza-Borrego through Julian. The town of Julian is a favorite of ours. We enjoy stopping in for a beverage after a hike in the desert. This also gives you a bit of a loop home, which is always an excellent option to change up the scenery.
FROM NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO
Coming from North County San Diego, our favorite way to the desert is to take the highlighted route below. This drive takes you through Cleveland National Forest by Mount Palomar and Lake Henshaw. The scenery is lovely, and we enjoy being in the mountains and pines and then coming down into the desert. There are several vista points on this route to step out and stretch your legs as well.
ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER
If you follow my blog, you know we love a good old stop at the Visitor Center on the way into a park. I love collecting park maps, information and checking in with park rangers on suggestions for hikes, exploring, and current conditions. Our son loves picking up his Junior Ranger booklet to complete as we explore the park. I highly recommend you do the same. Stop at the State Park Visitor Center to ensure you are headed in the right direction. Rangers are a great resource to help you decide what to explore during your visit on that particular day.
The Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center is a unique stop because the actual building is built into the desert landscape. It has several desert exhibits and shows five different 15-minute films about the surrounding Anza-Borrego desert. In addition, park rangers and volunteers are available with information, maps, and hiking guides. The Anza-Borrego State Park visitor center is always our first stop coming into town. Please note cellular service is not reliable in Anza-Borrego. Hence, it is great to have hard copies of photos of the information you hope to reference during your visit.
EXPLORE THE VISITOR CENTER GROUNDS TOO!
The Visitor Center is surrounded by a desert garden that gives a glimpse into flora and fauna of the surrounding park. The garden also includes a pupfish pond, which kids will enjoy seeing. These fish date back to the ice ages and have continued to adapt for survival. They can survive in fresh and salty water, desert heat, and near-freezing temperatures. In addition, the garden offers picnic tables and walking trails for exploring.
Both designated trails are flat and paved, making them accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. In addition, a short, 15-minute all-access Nature Trail leaves from the Visitor Center entrance and includes interpretive panels about the surrounding area. There is also a 1.4-mile trail to the campground and back that teaches visitors about the area’s plants and animals. Dogs are allowed on this campground trail.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?
Although the park is open year-round, the desert heat can peak June through September. Visits from October through May offer more comfortable temperatures for exploring and hiking. Wildflowers are abundant in spring. There is a $10 parking and day-use fee when using the Visitor Center area to explore. An annual pass for CA State Parks, including the beach parking pass, will cover your day-use fee anywhere in the park! Machines like the pay & display below are available for credit card payments.
CHECK CURRENT ROAD CONDITIONS
If you are interested in exploring some of the 4WD roads, the volunteers at the Visitor Center will have the most updated information about specific road conditions. The desert road conditions frequently change due to flooding and heat, so I HIGHLY recommend checking in before heading out on a 4WD adventure. I also recommend taking a picture of the updated info, so you can access it while exploring the park.
We have a Subaru with AWD, so we were disappointed to find out during a recent visit that the road to Font’s Point was not a great option for us in its current heavy, thick sand state. The volunteers at the Visitor Center informed us that even Jeeps have been getting stuck in the sand. Between no cell service and the closest tow coming from Ramona, being stuck in the sand with hungry and hot kids is not a way to kick off a family-friendly adventure. Therefore, checking in on CURRENT road conditions is essential for a successful experience.
Now that you have the CURRENT information you need for an incredible trip, you are ready to get out and enjoy all that Anza-Borrego State Park has to offer!
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
Felicita Park is an excellent place for a morning or afternoon adventure with kids. Located just north of San Diego in Escondido, California, the park is filled with trails to explore. The park was once a Kumeyaay Indian Village and is surrounded by climbing rocks, oak trees, a creek, and a waterfall. In addition, San Diego County has enriched the park with playgrounds and picnic areas to enhance your visit.
FELICITA COUNTY PARK INFORMATION
Felicita County Park is located in Escondido, California. The park is open 9:30 am – sunset. There is a $3 charge to park. Although there is a credit card option, it is not always reliable. I recommend bringing $3 cash for the parking machine. If you bring a $5 bill, your change comes in Andrew Jackson or Susan B. Anthony $1 coins which our son enjoyed! He thought he had found gold!
FELICITA PARK FACILITIES
In addition to the 2.5 miles of trails to explore, Felicita County Park has two large playgrounds for children to enjoy. Seven large picnic sites can be reserved in advance for up to 100-300 people depending on the site. This is a beautiful location for a family event or company picnic. Check this link for more information on the individual picnic sites. There is also a wedding and reception venue. Alcoholic beverages under 20% alcohol are allowed on site. In addition to the large reservable picnic areas, many individual picnic tables and areas are scattered throughout the park.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY PARKS KIDS IN PARKSPROGRAM
Not only is Felicita County Park a great place for hiking with kids in San Diego County, but they also participate in the Kids in Parks program. If you follow my blog, then you know I love anything Junior Ranger for the kids! This excellent program provides nature-based scavenger hunts during hikes, bicycle rides, and frisbee golf games for kids.
Before your visit, sign your child up to track your Felicita County Park adventure online. Then, when you arrive at the park, look for the display sign and brochures near picnic area 7. Grab a pamphlet, and let your child lead the way. The brochures keep your child engaged through the hike. Our son loved the “Felicita Scavenger Hunt” and “The Need for Trees.”
After your adventure, have your child “track” their adventure online. As your child submits hikes and experiences, Kids in Parks will mail them prizes for their progress! Our son was thrilled to receive a large package that was filled with prizes from recent hiking adventures! Check out this post for more details on the Kids in Parks program, available in six other San Diego county parks.
FELICITA COUNTY PARK TRAILS
Felicita County Park offers easy trails that loop through the park and along Felicita Creek. We enjoyed looping up by the playground and wedding venue before heading down along the creek towards the waterfall. Our son loved climbing on boulders, exploring around the creek, checking out the large oak trees, and using his Kids in Parks TRACK trail guide to tell us about Felicita County Park.
As we followed the creek towards the waterfall, my son and husband opted for a more adventurous way to cross the road.
The dirt path is wide and reasonably flat. Although we carried the baby in the Ergo, a stroller (like our BOB Stroller) would do great on this path. As we approached the waterfall, we found a place to have a small picnic and kombucha before looping back on the other side of the creek.
After our picnic, we crossed the creek and headed back up the creek towards the picnic areas and parking. There is a small museum about the cultural history of the area and the Kumeyaay Native Americans that once lived on the land. The park brochure explains this history in more detail. Our son loved seeing the metates, or rocks that the Kumeyaay used to grind acorns. He remembered seeing this same style of Native American “kitchen” in Sequoia National Park!
Felicita County Park is a great place to explore with kids. You can pack a picnic (or happy hour) to extend your visit or enjoy a morning hike and lunch nearby. My pick would be lunch or dinner in the gardens at nearby Stone World Bistro & Gardens – another excellent place for kids to explore AND a delicious adult beverage selection for you! Cheers!
If you are visiting San Simeon, California, chances are good you are heading to the famed Hearst Castle. However, a visit to San Simeon has more to offer than “la cuesta encantada,” or the enchanted hill and castle. Between hiking, wine tasting, wildlife, and unbelievable coastal views, San Simeon is worth a stop on your next California highway adventure. But, if you take the time to explore a bit more, the area’s beauty shines.
It won’t take long for you to realize why William Randolph Hearst chose this area for his famed estate. The natural beauty of this coastal gem packs photo-worthy views and is located in the middle of your San Francisco to Los Angeles highway 101 road trip through Big Sur. The central coast of California is a gem that leaves me in awe after every visit. Here are our favorite things to do in San Simeon, California.
WHERE IS SAN SIMEON, CALIFORNIA?
San Simeon is a gem on California’s coastline in San Luis Obispo County. Located just north of Cambria and south of Big Sur, San Simeon is best known for its famed Hearst Castle, the sprawling estate of William Randolph Hearst.
With a population of just over 650, San Simeon is an isolated coastal enclave worth more of your time than just a stop into Hearst San Simeon State Park. There are several exciting stops for families in town, and I highly suggest you carve out some time during your next Highway 101 road trip to enjoy them!
HEARST SAN SIMEON ZEBRAS
Driving North on Highway 1 from Cambria, watch the rolling hills on your right. The Hearst Family Ranch encompasses the majority of acreage around Hearst Castle. During the day, wildlife remnants of William Randolph Hearst’s private zoo can be seen grazing the hillside.
The herd of wild zebras travels along with the cattle and makes for a fun sight heading into San Simeon. You may even spy some elk further north near the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse. When you approach a group of cars pulled off on the side of Highway 1, make sure to look east from the highway, as you are almost sure to spot a herd of zebras and cows grazing the hillside. Park along the road to snap a photo and enjoy these incredible views!
SAN SIMEON BAY
San Simeon Bay offers incredible views without a crowd. The bay is home to various marine animals on the Pacific coast. The bay is a protected marine sanctuary that creates a perfect place to enjoy the ocean and wildlife views for free. Photo enthusiasts love to spot sea otters, elephant seals, and even humpback whales from the pier throughout the year.
San Simeon’s Pier is home to fishermen throughout the day, and you do not need a license to fish off the pier. However, limits are enforced. The beach parking lot and pier set you up for our favorite adventure in San Simeon – hiking out to San Simeon Point.
WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST MEMORIAL BEACH
Located off Highway 1 across from the Hearst Castle exit, William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach State Park offers picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and parking. California State Parks maintains this area along Highway 1. A short walk from the parking lot leads you to the incredible 850-foot San Simeon Pier and beach. Enjoy the ocean under your feet as you walk out on this marvelous structure. Watch for elephant seals and sea otters playing in the water below you.
The pier’s history in Hearst San Simeon State Park is pretty amazing. This was the entry point of the construction supplies so many of the beautiful art and antiques you see in the Hearst estate. Try to enjoy the view and imagine the incredible pieces unloaded on this pier! Also, don’t miss the terrific photo opportunity from the pier.
SAN SIMEON POINT TRAIL
We discovered this gem on our last visit, and it is something we will return to time and time again. I cannot believe a beauty like this can sit without the heavy traffic on trails we see in San Diego. This hiking trail is something I HIGHLY recommend you take the time to explore. At only 2.5-miles roundtrip, this hike can be done with kids of all ages.
START YOUR HIKE ON THE BEACH
Starting at the pier, walk north along the beach. Several Hearst family historic homes dating back to the 1800’s line the bluff. So does the Hearst Family Wines tasting room (more on the tasting room later- it is a perfect stop after your hike)! Shortly after the property, you will see a small path jetting off the beach up the hill to the right. Start heading into nature up the path!
HOW TO FIND THE TRAIL
You’ll continue along the beach but steadily climb up the bluff a bit. Once you come to a white taped post, cross through the “PRIVATE PROPERTY” fence. Although the Hearst family owns this property, they are kind enough to share it with the world during daylight hours. Continue up the path and soak in the incredible views.
Shortly after crossing the fence line, you find yourself on a trail opening up to an unforgettable coastline view. Don’t forget a photo of the bay! Suddenly, you will realize you are right where you are supposed to be!
We took a moment to rest and calm our baby while giving our son a snack. It was a perfect spot as the bay and beach views were front and center!
HIKING ON SAN SIMEON POINT
The climb up is not too extreme, and as we continued out, we were not disappointed with the views. At the top, we headed to the right, not through the trees of the main trail (which looks beautiful), but on a bluff-side trail parallel to the trees. Our reward was an incredible, unforgettable private view.
We took some time to relax on the bluff and take in the coastal views. We wished we had brought a blanket and our picnic (in the car for the Hearst Wines Tasting Room after the hike). These views were astonishing, and the quiet trail through nature was what dreams are made of in our new COVID world. Our son loved the bird and seal watching with his binoculars.
After relaxing for a bit, we headed back out to explore. It is beyond beautiful here. I cannot wait to come back and enjoy the view again. I can only imagine sunset would be unreal from this spot. This is a hike that I cannot recommend enough for families. At 2.5 miles out and back and only 100 miles of elevation increase, this trail is a “must-do!”
HEARST RANCH WINERY TASTING ROOM
Hearst Ranch wines are part of a pedigree of success. The Hearst Ranch Winery’s new bayfront tasting room is a DO NOT MISS in San Simeon. Why not sip the incredible Randolph Red or Three Sisters Cuvee by the bay? Hearst Ranch Winery is your perfect stop after a hike or visit to Hearst Castle. The tasting room staff will welcome you like family, and between the fantastic wines and stunning views, you will not be disappointed.
Although they have rotating food trucks, you can also purchase all you need for an incredible charcuterie from the tasting room. Or, bring your picnic, soak in the views, enjoy the wine and stay awhile. We love grabbing sandwiches from one of our favorite spots in Cambria before heading up to San Simon. San Simeon’s Hearst Family Wines are a must-try on your coastal adventure.
HEARST CASTLE
Most people venture to San Simeon to see the famed Hearst San Simeon Castle. Hearst Castle is now owned and operated by the State of California and attracts over one million visitors a year. This masterpiece designed by architect Julia Morgan is truly a piece of art and a spectacular sight.
HEARST CASTLE HISTORY
The hillside mansion was built in 1919 by the famed newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. The castle is over 90,000 square feet and boasts 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 19 sitting rooms, indoor & outdoor sitting rooms, a tennis court, a movie theater, a private zoo, a private airfield, and numerous guest homes.
Famous guests include Winston Churchill, Charles Lindbergh, Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin, and various other Hollywood stars and noteworthy politicians. In the 1920s and 1930s, an invitation to Hearst Castle was considered a high honor. Between the outdoor activities, stunning gardens, lavish events, and costume parties (and a liquor cellar stocked full during prohibition), guests on the estate enjoyed their stay as long as they were able.
There are several options for touring Hearst Castle. I highly recommend the Grand Rooms ticket for traveling with kids. It is especially festive during the holidays. Booking ahead will ensure you get the time you want, as the state park is a tourist destination filled with tour buses and other groups. You can also check for seasonal and special ticketed events, such as the Holiday Twilight Tour.
VISITING WITH KIDS
Our son was amazed by it all and wanted to see more. However, there is a lot of information, and multiple tours may be asking too much from your kids and their attention span. The tours run in groups, so the last thing you want is to be corralling your free-spirited children during the tour. Ensure your kids eat prior, as there is no eating or snacking during your visit.
AFTER YOUR HEARST SAN SIMEON STATE PARK VISIT
Art is abundant in every room, and you are welcome to take a photo with no flash. One of the best parts of the castle tour is that you are welcome to explore the gardens at your own pace, no matter what tour you take. The views from the grounds are phenomenal. This is a great place to explore before hopping on the shuttle back down to the visitor center. Watch for the natural beauty of zebras and other wildlife grazing under the sunset as you take the 15-minute ride back to the state park visitor center.
ELEPHANT SEALS AT THE PIEDRAS BLANCAS ROOKERY
The elephant seal rookery at Piedras Blancas is located just outside of San Simeon and is a must-do with kids. Parking is free and plentiful, as are the elephant seal views. Children will be fascinated by the antics of marine mammals. Male elephant seals assert their dominance to impress their female partners, and you can see the male seals mating fights throughout December and January. Shortly after, you can begin to see pregnant females lining the beach.
The Friends of the Elephant Seal and their docents offer great information for visitors. The elephant seal rookery is a great place to see elephant seals thriving in their natural habitat.
PIEDRAS BLANCAS LIGHT STATION
The Piedras Blancas Light Station is one place I have to admit we have not been to yet. I hate to say that because it is a fantastic place for families. The lighthouse has been a beacon on the coast for years, protecting mariners from the jagged cliffs of the Central Coast since it was built in 1875. My mother-in-law has wanted us to visit, and we will be visiting on our next trip when COVID restrictions change. As the tours resume, the hours should be updated here.
POINTS OF INTEREST NEAR SAN SIMEON
TO THE SOUTH – CAMBRIA
Cambria is one of our favorite places to visit. This seaside town is just 9-miles south of San Simeon and makes an excellent location for a home base during your Central Coast adventure. Some of our favorite hotels are located in Cambria, and we cover all of our favorite things in Cambria in this guide! Cambria is filled with great food, wine tasting, free nature preserves, and stunning sunset views.
TO THE NORTH – RAGGED POINT
Although 15-miles outside of San Simeon and heading towards Big Sur, Ragged Point is worth mentioning here! We have not taken many drives more beautiful than Highway 1 up the California Coast. We have been lucky enough to make the journey north and south, and a stop at Ragged Point is a MUST. Do not miss this photo opportunity!
The views are second to none on the coast, and the Ragged Point Inn offers a variety of dining options – a wine bar, an espresso bar, a sandwich stand, and a restaurant. If you have a picnic, you are more than welcome to enjoy it on their grounds. If you pass through on your California road trip, definitely make this a stop.
At times I use my blog as my travel list. I want to check out this short hike next time we are near Ragged Point – the Salmon Creek Trail. I will update here once we do. It would be amazing to spend a day hiking and then relaxing at the Ragged Point Inn. If you are reading this, I suggest you do the same! Let me know how it is.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT…
Take some time to enjoy the healing properties of this beautiful area in California. Here my husband and I were on a weekend away in 2018. We took this trip to help process some pain and disappointment in our growing family. Although trying to process these events and enjoy our vacation, this pain was real.
However, when I look at this photo, I know the ocean DOES heal. If you need a getaway, please consider a trip to the central coast of California. You cannot escape the pain you need to feel to grow, but you can take a deep breath and reframe it all.
These are the gems of Cambria, our favorite things to explore when visiting. I suggest starting here – choose what matters the most to you and build the rest of your day from here. There are so many things to do in Cambria, CA. So many of these are places have astonishing views. If you have the time, try to see them all. Plan where you want to spend your morning coffee and sunset views and fill in the rest with our additional recommendations. Several of these places are on our *DO NOT MISS* list of favorite things to do in Cambria, CA.
A MAP OF THE EAST & WEST VILLAGES
Cambria is a small, coastal town, with Main Street divided into two parts – the West Village and East Village. The two villages are separated by about 1/2 to 3/4 mile, so it is all very close together. There are so many things to do in both villages. When visiting Cambria, you will want to explore the shops and restaurants in both villages. We have walked from one end of Main Street to the other several times. You can get a feel for the distance by looking at this map. However, the entire walking route does include a hill between the two villages. With parking so plentiful throughout town, driving is your easiest option when exploring Cambria.
Just a little over one mile long, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is one of the most beautiful walks you can take as a family. The boardwalk is also one of our favorite things in Cambria, CA. There are several benches along the path to take in the wildlife. You can watch the dolphins, birds, and even whales during the morning hours. Then, you can take the stairs down to Moonlight Beach or follow the small pathways down to different tidepools you can explore. I HIGHLY recommend heading out here for sunset.
The boardwalk runs parallel to Moonstone Beach and starts next to the El Colibri hotel on Moonstone Beach Drive, just off Windsor Boulevard and Highway 1. There is a small dirt lot for parking at the start of the boardwalk, or there are many dirt areas on Moonstone Beach Drive to park and hop on the boardwalk. Many of Cambria’s cute motels and lodges are also across the street from the path.
MOONSTONE BEACH
*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*
Moonstone Beach is famous for its jaw-dropping views. The beach runs parallel to Highway 1 up the coastline to San Simeon. Moonstone is also known as a spectacular beach for wildlife viewing and beachcombing. Our son loves walking with his Mimi looking for moonstones in the sand and funky driftwood creations. When staying close, it is a fun beach to head out at night to look for moonstones shining under the night sky. It is not uncommon to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other animals from Moonstone Beach and the boardwalk above it. The beach is accessible from the boardwalk above, Leffingwell Landing State Park, or Shamel Park off Windsor Boulevard.
SHAMEL PARK
Shamel Park is a beachfront park off of Windsor Boulevard with plenty to do for kids! The playground is always clean and the views are astounding. Shamel Park is home to the Discover the Whale Trail due to the likelihood of seeing whales and other marine mammals from the park. It is the perfect place for your kids to play before or after a visit to Moonstone Beach. The park has a large grassy area, picnic facilities, and a swimming pool. Parking is easy as you can pull up right in front of the park and walk through the park to the beach. Shamel Park is a perfect stop for beautiful views and happy kids.
WINDSOR BOULEVARD
Windsor Boulevard runs parallel to the coastline and is home to some of Cambria’s most beautiful oceanfront properties. There are several areas with beach access and lookouts along Windsor Boulevard and benches to rest on along the road. Many of the homes are available for weekly or monthly rentals as well. We love taking a bike ride down the street with hotel bikes or a morning coffee walk towards the gem at the end of the road, The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.
THE FISCALINI RANCH PRESERVE
*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*
Hiking around Fiscalini Preserve is one of my favorite things in Cambria, CA. I have taken in the foggy morning views with a hot cup of coffee and watched the sunset from the coastline with a glass of wine. Fiscalini Ranch is excellent no matter when you visit. The views along the bluff are unreal, and the Friends of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Foundation does an incredible job of keeping the trails maintained and the plants flourishing. I do not think I have ever seen litter, let alone any graffiti or other damage. During COVID, the trails have been turned into one-way circles to keep people socially distanced. I dream of retiring one day and being a friend of the preserve, planting trees and weeding the ranch to preserve this special place.
Along the trails, you will find artistic benches made from driftwood and sea glass to stop, slow, rest, and take in the views. We have seen dolphins and elephant seals and I am still waiting for my whale sightings from one of the benches! With over 440 acres to explore, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a must-see in Cambria. Parking is easy, and we love to enter from the parking at the end of Windsor Blvd (North), although there are several areas to enter “the Ranch” in Cambria. The Windsor South or North entrance will allow you to enjoy the boardwalk along the cliffs, which is my absolute favorite.
NIT WITT RIDGE
Nitt Witt Ridge is a house made from glass bottles, auto parts, shells, and other garbage and is a sight to see. The home is now a California Registered Historical Landmark and sits high on the hills above Cambria. Arthur, “Art” Beal (or Capt. Nitt Witt) was an artist with a unique personality that used to work at Hearst Castle. He purchased the property in the 1920s and worked to create his home entirely out of hand tools and household materials. Driving by the house is a fun thing to do in Cambria, CA. We have only driven by, but you can take a tour of the property if you are more interested. Tours run daily, and you can call 805/ 927-2690 for more information.
SHOPPING AND DINING IN THE EAST VILLAGE
The East Village is filled with great restaurants and shops to explore. In our guide to visiting Cambria, California, you can read more about the dining, sipping, and shopping options in Cambria’s East Village. Cambria is such a unique town, and you can see so much of the relaxed vibe as you stroll through different art galleries, nurseries, antique stores, and other shops that fill the East Village. Wandering around the East Village between meals is a necessary thing to do in Cambria, CA. Even the trash cans are pretty!
CAMBRIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Cambria has a rich history of miners and cowboys. If history is of interest to you, the Cambria Historical Society Museum is the place to take it all in and learn more about the town you are enjoying. The Cambria Historical Society has a wealth of information about the town, and I especially love their Historical Walking Tour. The tour allows you to explore the area with an appreciation for the area’s rich history.
The Cambria Historical Society Museum is housed in the Guthrie-Bianchini House built in 1870. The gardens surrounding the museum are always fun to explore and are a magnet for butterflies in spring. During the COVID pandemic, the gardens have doubled as a place to enjoy your take-out meal.
Cambria is a magical seaside town on California’s Central Coast, and it is one of our favorite places to visit. My husband grew up visiting Cambria often as his Grandma would rent a house each summer. We hope to continue the tradition. Our son already loves our visits, and, at four months old, our daughter has already had her first visit. Cambria is a beautiful place to escape for a weekend getaway- or longer! Here is our guide to visiting the coastal gem of Cambria, California.
WHERE IS CAMBRIA, CALIFORNIA?
Cambria is a quiet, beautiful town full of fun shops, delicious food, and beautiful places to explore. Whether or not you stay in the east village or west village, you will find yourself surrounded by the ocean and Monterey Pines. Cambria is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend away. California’s Central Coast has so much to offer, and I hate to write too much about it because I don’t want our favorite places full of crowds. However, the magic of Cambria is something everyone should experience.
WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN VISITING CAMBRIA?
Check out the following pages for our ultimate guide to Cambria! If you plan to head up the coast a bit, check out my post about San Simeon too. Here are our favorite family-friendly places to explore, eat, drink, shop & stay when visiting Cambria, California.
Are you looking for a quick way to submerge yourself in nature from the East Bay? Living in Southern California, we were craving some of the lush greenery Northern California hiking offers after the holidays. The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Loop Trail was a great way to escape the post-holiday business and enjoy a short afternoon hike. The loop takes you down into a beautiful forest and luscious change in scenery filled with bright green ferns and aromatic bay trees.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve is tucked away in the Oakland hills, sandwiched between the East Bay and San Francisco. The preserve is run by the East Bay Regional Park District and is well maintained. At the start of the trail, you can pick up a park brochure that includes a trail map and information about the 21 interpretive panels along the 1.7-mile loop.
PARKING AT THE HUCKLEBERRY BOTANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE
Parking was easy, as there is a small lot at the park entrance on the left side of Skyline Blvd., just after the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. The parking area has several picnic tables to enjoy, as well as bathrooms and trash/recycling cans. Unfortunately, there are no dogs or bikes allowed on the Huckleberry Loop.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Trail loop is 1.7 miles and took us less than 1.5 hours. The loop takes you down into a beautiful green fern and bay forest and teaches you about the local flora and fauna along the way. The unique climate of this area has created a moist environment that is home to many native plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the Bay Area. We loved the change of scenery and damp feel under the canopy of greens.
STARTING YOUR HIKE
At the start of the loop, you can either take the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail to the left or the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail to the right. The left takes you down a set of stairs into the fern and bay forest. We opted for this direction, knowing we would be climbing back up as we looped around. Many hikers opt to take the flatter Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail out a bit and back for a less strenuous hike. This is an excellent option for families with young kids concerned about distance. However, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail was the highlight of our hike. I highly recommend starting to the right, down the Lower Loop Trail.
LOWER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
We visited after light rains, so the trail was slightly muddy. The sun was peeking through the clouds, but the canopy of trees made for a primarily shady and damp hike. The trail can be slippery and steep at times. I can see this trail being very muddy after heavier rains, so plan your footwear appropriately. The smell of bay leaves filled the air throughout the hike, making for a peaceful feeling winding through the fern and bay forest on the lower half of the loop.
The greenery was plentiful, and the tree canopy made you feel like you were hours away from the busy Skyline Blvd and cities just outside of the preserve. The Lower Huckleberry Loop covers interpretive panels 21 to 16 as you move down the interpretive panel list when starting from the lower trail. Shortly into your hike, you reach another fork in the trail. Continue on the trail to the right, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail. The path to the left will take you to the 31-mile Skyline National Trail into Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve (North) or Reinhart Redwood Regional Park (South).
UPPER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
After interpretive panel 16, you will see a sign heading up towards the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail. As you begin to climb up, turn around for beautiful views of Mt. Diablo through the trees.
The climb up the “connector” portion of the Lower Trail to the Upper Trail is steep but short at .11 miles. There are several sections of stairs to help on muddy days.
We looked down at the climb we had just made up to the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail.
After the climb, you will reach another sign and head right to continue on the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail back towards the trailhead. Heading left will take you on the Upper Pinehurst Trail into Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park.
DETOURS
Shortly after connecting to the Upper Loop Trail, we took a slight detour to the right towards interpretive panels 14 & 15. After an uphill stretch through some bushes, we came out into a clearing with beautiful views of Mt. Diablo. There was also a bench where we enjoyed a snack and the sunshine. This would be an excellent place for a picnic or extended rest when hiking with our kids.
After our detour, we continued along on the Upper Huckleberry Loop. We immediately noticed it was a much flatter path along the ridge. We took another detour to see interpretive panels 9, 10 & 11. The clearing was much smaller than the previous clearing we discovered, so we quickly headed back to the main trail. As we continued along the main trail, we enjoyed seeing the red bark of the manzanitas as well as the sprawling bushes of the coast huckleberry.
MANZANITA TREES
At one point, a live manzanita tree has grown over the trail and gives you an up-close view of the beautiful bark. It is against the law to carve into the branches of these beautiful trees, as they are protected in this preserve. Although manzanitas are abundant on the upper loop in this preserve, they are eventually overtaken by the huckleberry or chinquapin native to the area.
As you approach the trailhead, you find yourself winding through similar greenery as the start of your hike. Finally, there are two benches where you can rest and take in the final views and smells of bay leaves surrounding you!
This trail was a beautiful getaway from the East Bay. We visited in December 2020, when COVID numbers were surging, and everyone on the trail was wearing a mask. The trial is thinner, but we could step aside when parties need to pass. I would love to explore the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve next door with more time. Some trails connect the two preserves.
LAST STOP – GRIZZLY PEAK
Don’t forget to stop at Grizzly Peak for incredible views (on a clear day) of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and Golden Gate Bridge. Grizzly Peak is right on your way to Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve from the East Bay. As you head up towards the Preserve from the East Bay, you exit Fish Ranch Road right before the Caldecott Tunnel and then take a left onto Grizzly Peak Blvd. for a little over 2 miles before hitting Skyline Blvd. Although giant logs have blocked the main turnouts, the view is still exceptional from different points on the road.
Views of the city from Grizzly Peak
We pulled on the side of the road as we left the preserve and crossed Grizzly Peak Blvd. to take in the view. This pullout was a great spot to take in city views at night in high school. However, I did read police are patrolling and citing between 9 pm-6 am. Apparently, the views were not only attracting people but also smoking, bonfires and fireworks. These do not pair with high fire danger, so “hanging out” is no longer allowed. But do stop to enjoy the view!
Do you love getting into nature from the East Bay? Check out my post on Muir Woods. What are some of your favorite hikes in the Bay Area? We are always looking for new things to explore!
Creating family adventures and sharing them with you!
