Home › California › Escondido › Coast to Crest Trail
Coast to Crest Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 85 Google reviews · Running trail in Escondido, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Coast to Crest Trail'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.
Relaxing hiking, horse riding and mountain-biking area near a beautiful lake with parking and scenic views.
What runners say about Coast to Crest Trail
“The path is wide, well-maintained, and perfect for all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned trail users.”
“Hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding along the lake shore in and out of the coastal live oak woodland is relaxing and beautiful.”
“Lake Hodges Trail is one of the most scenic and peaceful hiking spots in North County San Diego.”
“There’s ample free parking at most access points, and dogs are welcome on a leash.”
It was a nice morning hike. The first/last mile is step.. hiking shoes and poles are recommended. Great views of both the Lake Hodges & Olivenhain Reservoir.
This is a very scenic hiking area. Shared walking/mountain biking trail, so be alert.
Good hike! The trail is narrow so it's a little rough when bikes go by, and there are steep and rocky spots on the trail that could be rough for a beginner level hiker.
Beautiful trails for running or walking. Lots of wildflowers and wildlife too.
Trail conditions & character
“Hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding along the lake shore in and out of the coastal live oak woodland is relaxing and beautiful.”
“There’s ample free parking at most access points, and dogs are welcome on a leash.”
“There’s ample free parking at most access points, and dogs are welcome on a leash.”
“The trail is narrow so it's a little rough when bikes go by, and there are steep and rocky spots on the trail that could be rough for a beginner level hiker.”
“Bathroom is a portable toilet and there is a small restaurant along the trail.”
“Lake Hodges Trail is one of the most scenic and peaceful hiking spots in North County San Diego.”
“The trail is narrow so it's a little rough when bikes go by, and there are steep and rocky spots on the trail that could be rough for a beginner level hiker.”
Plan your run at Coast to Crest Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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 trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Escondido
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Del Dios Community Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 139 reviews
Picnic-friendly destination featuring hiking trails for bikers and runners.
North Shore Lake Hodges Trailhead
4.6 ★★★★★ 95 reviews
Hiking and mountain biking are available at this area that's also good for kids.
Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,529 reviews
Large park featuring native plants, picnic areas & hiking, biking & equestrian trails.