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Calavera Nature Preserve
4.6 ★★★★★ 227 Google reviews · Running trail in Carlsbad, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Calavera Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Nature reserve for casual hiking through lush trails and a climb up a volcano.
What runners say about Calavera Nature Preserve
“What an incredible place , you must go take a hike , walk , or a stroll , it’s beautiful !”
“Dogs are welcomed, strollers are absolutely ill advised, and the buddy system is highly recommended.”
This is our favorite hiking spot in Carlsbad. It is great to stroll on the level trail around the lake as a warm up, then scale the steep side of the volcano. Views from the top are awesome, then take the "easier" route down the west side and finish crossing the dam.
Great easy to moderate hike with a bit of elevation. There are multiple entrances to the trail that leads to volcano. This one is a bit far, and takes 30-40 minutes to get to the volcano. Great variety of local plants and lake make it a pleasant hike. It is dog friendly as well 🐕🐕🐕
I hike here on a daily basis, ranges from easy to difficult, dog friendly, free parking. Get place to get back to nature and have a peaceful or intense time! Get place for tourist as well
Popular park with gorgeous volcano remains. Several access points. Northwest part of preserve is quite busy but paths available to venture out east or south. Sunset time is gorgeous
Trail conditions & character
“One of the best local hiking end biking trails through local nature scenery including a creek with little bit of a waterfall mountain to climb.”
“One of the best local hiking end biking trails through local nature scenery including a creek with little bit of a waterfall mountain to climb.”
“Dogs are welcomed, strollers are absolutely ill advised, and the buddy system is highly recommended.”
“Easy to moderate level hike with optional trials leading uphill for a more difficult hike, plenty of nature filled scenery.”
“Dogs are welcomed, strollers are absolutely ill advised, and the buddy system is highly recommended.”
“It surprisingly even offers a restroom and a water fountain.”
Plan your run at Calavera Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadwater — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitepreservecalavera.org
- Phone+1 760-434-2826
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5:30–8:30 pm |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Running trails near Carlsbad
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lake Calavera Preserve
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Network of volcano, lake, hill and mountain trails that attract hikers and mountain bikers.
Lake Calavera Hiking Trail
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Hiking spot with a trail around a lake, plus picnic tables and views from the top.
Lake Calavera
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A warren of trails on a dormant volcano draws hikers & cyclists to this serene locale with a view.
Calavera Trail
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Relaxed hills area with paths for hiking and biking, plus views, dogs and lake access.
Hidden Canyon Park
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Park with a playscape shaded by huge umbrellas, plus grassy open space & undeveloped land.