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San Juan Trail (Lower Trailhead)
4.7 ★★★★★ 40 Google reviews · Running trail in Lake Elsinore, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from San Juan Trail (Lower Trailhead)'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 San Juan Trail (Lower Trailhead)
Did this today and it was a real challenge. It starts of with what seemed like 30 switchbacks in the first mile, and the climb didn't let up. A lot of switchbacks are followed by a good amount of technical maneuvering.
This trail can be a little tricky. Certain portions of the trail are slippery due to the small gravel, and some of the embankments are steep! A couple of moments had me envisioning a much shorter life expectancy. Be sure to wear hiking shoes with grip.
A popular place for adventure staging. It's an unmaintained dirt area under the trees. There is a bathroom here. No running water though. San Juan Trail starts here. Lots of people use this a a place to leave a car for shuttle back to the top where they left their other car. I recommend riding or hiking from here.
Nice parking lot, small (15-20 cars depending) but sufficient. The RR is typical forest standard but surprisingly clean. Don't forget your day pass to park. The trail is worth the $5 pass.. the views are always amazing.
Trail conditions & character
“You have to have Cal park pass for parking though there is no cash drop box.”
“A lot of switchbacks are followed by a good amount of technical maneuvering.”
Plan your run at San Juan Trail (Lower Trailhead)
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- 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 — reported by runners
- Websitefs.usda.gov
- Phone+1 951-736-1811
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Lake Elsinore
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Bell View Trail Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 63 reviews
Steep, unshaded hill trail featuring a pond (home to tadpoles, frogs and switchbacks).
