Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

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What visitors say

• Frank R.★★★★★

  This suburban trailhead is a hidden gem. It has shorter loops in the 2 mile round trip and less range, mostly under the shady branches of Live Oak in the canyon. Lots of interpretive signs, so it's great for kids. It is also a good launch point for hiking to Ramona dam, and a more challenging alternate starting point for Mt Woodson (10.8 miles, 2500' elevation gain. You'll lose the shade on these hikes. There is lots of poison oak just off the dirt road in the preserve, so stay on the paths. The free parking lot holds a few dozen cars. It opens at sunrise (6:30 am in summer) and closes at sundown.

  2 months ago

• Craig Bellavance★★★★★

  The Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is jointly owned by the State of California, the County of San Diego, and the City of Poway. With that level of support, it’s no surprise the reserve offers visitors a really enjoyable experience. A mid-sized, paved parking lot provides plenty of space for cars and serves as the main access point to the reserve’s primary route, the Green Valley Truck Trail. The Green Valley Truck Trail connects hikers to Lake Ramona and Lake Poway, both located just outside the reserve’s boundaries. Two shorter trails—the Torreto Outlook Trail and the Creekside Trail—are located near the parking lot and are especially kid-friendly. The parking area and trails are well equipped with interpretive signs and information kiosks. Amenities at the parking lot include shaded seating areas, potable water for both you and your dog, and a conveniently located portable toilet near the trail entrance. Farther along the Green Valley Truck Trail, hikers will also find a small rest area with picnic tables and another portable toilet.

  6 months ago

• Pamela L★★★★★

  Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is one of the best-maintained nature preserves in the area. The trails are well groomed, the signage is helpful, and amenities such as clean restrooms, picnic areas, and educational displays make it an enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages. The docents do an excellent job helping visitors learn about the local environment and wildlife. The reserve offers everything from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes connecting to Lake Poway and Ramona Dam. If you plan to venture beyond the main trails, be prepared for some uphill sections and a moderate level of exertion. The trail markers are generally good, but I still recommend bringing a GPS or trail app. The scenery is beautiful, with a wonderful variety of native plants, wildlife, and expansive views. On a clear day, the reserve truly lives up to its name, offering wide-open skies and a peaceful escape into nature. It's a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys hiking, wildlife, and the outdoors.

  2 months ago

• A A★★★★★

  Some shaded area. Lots of options on which trail to take, there's a creek trail but we didn't see a creek. Beautiful hike! They have guided tours, must look at schedules for those. They have volunteer opportunities as well.

  8 months ago

• Frank Chaco★★★★★

  I absolutely love this preserve. I don't like that I can't take my well trained dog with me on the nice scenic trails though. This is a well maintained preserve great for the beginner hiker, someone who just wants a nice scenic stroll or even advanced hikers who wants to take it to the top of various choice mountains, like moubt woodson/potato chip or to the top of Ramona dam. It's all here and nice picnic areas in between. Family friendly too. I keep coming back since it's one of my favorites. Dogs must be on a leash.

  a year ago

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