Outbound Collective logo

Hike Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail

Escondido, California

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

7.36 miles

Elevation Gain

1150 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Robb Keele

This hike, part of the growing Coast to Crest Trail, features amazing views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's dog and family friendly, so pack up all your little ones.

Bernardo Mountain is located on the Coast to Crest Trail in San Dieguito River Park.

The 7.36 mile out-and-back trail to the 1150 ft. summit starts on the east side of I-15. It's a relatively easy hike all the way to the top. It picks up a little once you make it to the Summit Trail junction, where you will begin to gain some elevation. But even this part of the trek isn't all that difficult if you're in moderately good shape.

At the base of the mountain, you're welcomed by the Lake Hodges nature preserve, a beautiful lush, green area that even has a palm tree lined oaisis with a small creek running through it. Further up, the trail becomes more typical of other trails in San Diego with the dense vegetation and chaparral we're all familiar with. At points, the trail overlooks the houses of lucky homeowners whose backyards butt up against the preserve. If you start to feel like your prying eyes are unwelcome, simply look back to the trail ahead and your attention will once again be nature bound.

Once standing atop the peak, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Mt. Woodson and Iron Mountain are both visible to the east, and Black Mountain to the South, and Lake Hodges sitting in between.

And remember to sign the summit register to let everyone know what you accomplished on this day.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic

Hike Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail Reviews

Great hike with an amazing view. Took a few hours but was definitely worth it. It's very easy to miss the summit trail head. The sign is facing west on the trail and you come up to it from the east side so it's very easy to pass.

It's a long hike, but the view at the end is worth it

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Battle Mountain's Cross

Hike the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

Day Hike Elfin Forest

Relax at Lake Poway

Mount Woodson and Potato Chip Rock

Hike Miner's Ridge Loop Trail to Black Mountain Peak