Upcoming Hikes

Peaks Hike Series
San Marcos offers spectacular 360-degree views from its highest peaks. Hike to the summit for a rewarding challenge—whether personal or shared with friends.

January hike

San Elijo Park, Denk Mountain, Copper Creek
Saturday, January 10 (second Saturday)
9:00 a.m. (sign-in at 8:30 a.m.)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance/elevation: 7.0 miles; 850 feet gain
Meeting location: San Elijo Park (Recreation Center parking lot), 1105 Elfin Forest Road, San Marcos, CA 92078

February hike

Twilight Trek (a hike under the stars)
Saturday, February 7
5:30 p.m. (sign-in at 5:00 p.m.)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Distance/elevation: 4.2 miles; 1,390 feet gain
Bring: flashlight or headlamp
Meeting location: Double Peak Park, 910 Double Peak Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078

Borderland Hike Series
Explore the borderlands of San Marcos and beyond to see how our community connects with neighboring areas.

March hike

San Elijo Park to Sage Hill Preserve
Saturday, March 7
9:00 a.m. (sign-in at 8:30 a.m.)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance/elevation: approximately 4.3 miles; minimal gain
Note: dogs are not allowed on this hike
Meeting location: San Elijo Park (Recreation Center parking lot), 1105 Elfin Forest Road, San Marcos, CA 92078

Watershed Hike Series
Each hike offers a chance to discover the diverse ecosystems linking San Marcos to neighboring communities, featuring lakes, rivers, and creeks.

April hike

Sunset Trail/Lake San Marcos Overlook

Saturday, April 11 (second Saturday)
9 a.m. (sign-in at 8:30 a.m.)

Difficulty:Strenuous

Distance/elevation: 3.1 miles; 430 feet gain
A series of winding ascents and descents will gofrom the bottom of the Sunset Trail to the top of the Lake San Marcos Trail and back. Hard-to-spotviews of the south end of Lake San Marcos included!This hike is 3.1-miles with approximately 430’ of elevation gain.

Meeting location: San Elijo Park (Recreation Center parking lot), 1105 Elfin Forest Road, San Marcos, CA 92078

Brand new program - Trail Talks
These leisurely trail talks invite you to slow down, observe, and learn about the local plants and animals that we share our backyard with. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into local ecosystems, discover fascinating natural stories, and practice the skills of a naturalist—building a deeper appreciation for the world around you.

March trail talk

Creatures of the Dark: Nocturnal Animals and the Role They Play After Dark
Saturday, March 21
7:30 p.m. (sign-in at 7:00 p.m.)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Join us for a guided moonlight walk around Lakeview Park as we explore the secret world of nocturnal plants and animals. Learn how darkness shapes the nighttime food web and why it’s essential for a balanced ecosystem. We’ll also use UV lights to reveal hidden colors and patterns that bring the night to life in a whole new way. After the walk, take home a self-guided fact sheet to continue exploring, including a look at unexpected pollinators—from bats to beetles—that help keep our world blooming after dark.

Meeting location: Lakeview Park, 650 Foxhall Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078

May trail talk

Pollination Nation: Bees, Butterflies and Beyond
Saturday, May 23
9:30 a.m. (sign-in at 9:00 a.m.)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Start with a guided walk through Jack’s Pond Nature Center, followed by a leisurely 1-mile stroll as we talk about local pollinators, their vital role in a balanced ecosystem, and the challenges they face today—plus simple ways you can help. After the walk, stick around to plant a native plant in your own pot, decorate it, and take home a living reminder of the day. A self-guided fact sheet will be provided with more on pollinators beyond bees and butterflies.

Meeting location: Jack’s Pond Nature Center, 986 La Moree Road, San Marcos, CA 92069