Bernardo Bay Trail (Lake Hodges)
Rancho Bernardo, CA
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.8(12 Google reviews)
What parents say
AI summary of 5 Google reviews — not a first-hand visit. How we write these
Wide, mostly easy trails along the lake edge with some rocky patches and moderate inclines. Almost no shade apart from the northernmost stretch, so bring water and go early. Signage is poor and paths cross each other, though reviewers say you cannot get properly lost. Expect a lot of cyclists.
A mostly flat lakeside trail through oak and scrub, from a large free lot on West Bernardo Drive. Go early — there's almost no shade after mid-morning and inland summer temperatures run fifteen degrees above the coast.
Good for
- Restrooms
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W Bernardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92127, USA
Hours via Google — confirm before a special trip.
Free
Map
What visitors say
- Craig Bellavance★★★★★
Bernardo Bay Natural Area—co-managed by the City of San Diego and the San Dieguito River Park—is clearly a favorite spot for both hikers and cyclists, judging by all the tire tracks and footprints. I spent about three hours wandering the Bernardo Bay Trails, saving the Piedras Pintadas Trail for another day. The trails twist off in different directions and occasionally cross one another, so it can feel a bit confusing at times. Trail signs are few and not especially helpful, but if you’re in the mood to simply roam, it’s a great place to explore—you really can’t get lost. The northernmost trail offers plenty of welcome shade from big, leafy trees, while the rest of the area is mostly sun-exposed. I passed more people on bikes than on foot. The whole park felt clean and well cared for—pet owners seem to be doing their part too.
9 months ago
- Nyree★★★★★
There is very little shade out there, so plan your outing accordingly. Most trails are cleared and even though my trail was rated east, there are still rocky areas and a moderate incline.
7 years ago
Showing 2 of 5 Google reviews · Read them all on Google Maps
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