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Turtle Head Trail head
4.4 ★★★★☆ 34 Google reviews · Running trail in San Diego, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Turtle Head Trail head'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 Turtle Head Trail head
“Beautiful view, but a few places could get quite difficult for small kids and even adults.”
The trail has beautiful view of the lake Hodges. It has many steep area. rock scrambles & lots of poison oaks. Recommend to wear hiking shoes or boots. Hiking poles are very helpful on steep hills. If you like frogs there many on the pond near the trail entrance, they’re tiny green frogs 🐸
Moderate-hard trail. Beautiful view, but a few places could get quite difficult for small kids and even adults. Highly recommend to bring hiking sticks to help you get through a few spots. It took us about 3 hours back and forth.
Took us good amount of effort. It was about 4.5 miles roundtrip. It has quite a few ascents and descents. It's a nice trek to start your weekend with
What a great hike! Starts off pretty mellow and gives you time to warm up before the uphill. It's a pretty Rocky path and advised to make sure you watch a map because you may go the wrong way as there are multiple paths. Overall very rewarding and not too difficult if you are a avid hiker.
Trail conditions & character
“But a very rewarding view and hike when you get to the end also along the hike you get the view of the whole lake and dam!”
“Short steep sections, a scramble or 2, shade to start, but not much for most of the trail.”
“It's a pretty Rocky path and advised to make sure you watch a map because you may go the wrong way as there are multiple paths.”
Plan your run at Turtle Head Trail head
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.
Running trails near San Diego
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 Gorge (Lake Hodges)
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Kid-friendly hiking area known for its scenic views.
North Shore Lake Hodges Trailhead
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Hiking and mountain biking are available at this area that's also good for kids.
Bernardo Mountain Peak
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Piedras Pintadas Trailhead
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Coast to Crest Trail
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Relaxing hiking, horse riding and mountain-biking area near a beautiful lake with parking and scenic views.