Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve

Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is managed jointly by the County and City of San Diego. Trails run along both sides of a creek that feeds a dense grove of riparian plants and trees, and native chaparral fills the land beyond, right up to the edge of suburban development. Hikers, cyclists, and equestrians use it all year.

Single-track trails near the creek are shaded almost the whole way, while a wider, sunnier trail and access road run farther out. In spring a waterfall may be flowing at the west end of the preserve, where the paths meet. The preserve has about 12 miles of trails, and they connect to a historic adobe ranch house with a museum, a community garden, and a small collection of farm animals; the ranch house is also used for weddings and special events. Visitors are asked to follow the signs and stay on designated paths to support restoration.

The staging area on Black Mountain Road is open for both vehicle and equestrian parking. Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset, with pedestrian access from sunrise to sunset. There is no public vehicle access and restrooms are closed on December 25.