Home › California › Escondido › Del Dios Highland Trail
Del Dios Highland Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 12 Google reviews · Running trail in Escondido, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Del Dios Highland 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.
What runners say about Del Dios Highland Trail
“Excellent conditioning hike with great views”
Great hike but a bit steep. Need to be careful when going down. The view up there was absolutely beautiful!
Beautiful trail with very steep incline. The views are incredible. Be careful cling back down and recommend hiking poles. No bathroom and is more of an advanced hike. Always has parking and no fees.
It's such a great hike for anyone up to the challenge. It's a steep incline all the way to the top.☺️ Absolutely love this hike!!😍
Trail conditions & character
“Small parking lot, but trails and views are worth it.”
“It's a steep incline all the way to the top.”
“Small parking lot, but trails and views are worth it.”
Plan your run at Del Dios Highland Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitesdparks.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–6 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
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Picnic-friendly destination featuring hiking trails for bikers and runners.
Coast to Crest Trail
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Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
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Large park featuring native plants, picnic areas & hiking, biking & equestrian trails.
North Shore Lake Hodges Trailhead
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Hiking and mountain biking are available at this area that's also good for kids.