It’s not a travel week for Luke and me. The Van is parked in the garage while we wait out this rainstorm. However, I still enjoy taking long walks and hikes around our hometown. On the other hand, Luke is such a homebody; he would rather stay at home, but he still joins me because the pup needs his walks.
This week, I’m sharing a hike in North County San Diego. Luke and I typically start the New Year with this hike. However, it will be a bit delayed this year due to the rare rainstorm we received here in Southern California. It did cause some flooding, and trails aren’t in the best condition and may be closed.
I park and start the hike at The Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve at 8833 Harmony Grove Road, Escondido, CA 92029. When it is open, Way Up Trail to Harmony Grove Overlook is a great hike. I like to go early in the morning when the gates open because the parking lot is relatively small, and I get annoyed when I have to wait for someone to leave. I would rather be on the trail hiking. Plus, when you start early, there are fewer people on the narrow parts of the trail—no need to squeeze by, especially with a large dog.
***Update*** I took a day off from work and decided to try this hike out on a weekday. We arrived a little after 8 am when the gates open and there were only 2 other cars in the parking lot. There were only a handful of hikers ahead of us and the hike was pretty peaceful. We didn’t have to squeeze to the side to let others pass us on the way up the hike. However, on the way down around 9:30 am, there were more people heading up the mountains. But no matter the day, make sure to bring tons of water for you and your pup ***Update***
When you first get on track for the trail, you’ll see a pathway for the Botanical Trail. You’ll want to go uphill to get to the main trails that lead to the Way Up Trail to Harmony Grove Overlook. The Escondido Creek also runs through this area. Luke is scared of water and the sounds of water. So we typically jog/walk very fast to escape the sounds. There is a bridge that leads to the trails going uphill. Do not make the mistake I first made by crossing the creek on the rocks. There are maps on the Botanical Trail that will lead you to what I consider the easier route.
One of my favorite things about this Reserve is that there are trails that connect, many different picnic area stops, and nice viewpoints. The Way Up Trail to Harmony Grove can be a roundtrip hike of around 2 miles, depending on your route from the parking lot. So, you can continue to come back and explore or even extend the hike.
You will be going uphill with elevation gain. It can also get warm depending on the day and time of year you go. So plan accordingly. The hike is cool enough to enjoy when you go early in the morning, even during the warmer months. Also, remember dogs must be on a leash. Always bring water for you and the pup.
Join Luke and me on our Weekend Vanventures, and let us know of any excellent dog-friendly hikes we should check out.
