If you are interested in hiking with great views, and enjoy a few hours out in the Southern California weather, Elfin Forest is worth checking out.
Elfin Forest is a rural community just east of San Elijo Hills in San Marcos, and extending into the western part of Escondido. This is a residential area characterized by large parcels of land and homes set back from the winding 2-lane road, lots of horses, and plenty of open space, hills, and chaparral.
The Elfin Forest Recreational Preserve is a 760-acre open space day use park that has been developed by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. There are 14 miles of trails (which allow horse back riding, hikers, mountain biking and dogs) to enjoy, and spectacular views in all directions (including the ocean, about 12 miles away, and the islands) from the top at the Lake Hodges Overlook and other points.
The park is located on Harmony Grove Road (the road starts out as Elfin Forest Road in the town center at San Elijo Hills to the west), with the main parking left down the hill where the visitor center is located, and overflow parking along Harmony Grove just past the driveway.
The trail along the creek is level and easy to navigate. The Way Up Trail leads up the mountain to a picnic area overlooking the reservoir installed in recent years, about 2 miles.
A Few Other Places I have enjoyed hiking:
Idyllwild, California - A Hiker's Paradise
ENJOY THE TOUR!
********************************
If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.
All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits
