Upcoming Hikes

Step it up and hit the trail with our free, ranger-led City Hikes, offered on the first Saturday of each month (unless otherwise noted). Each hike features a new route, showcasing a variety of terrains, difficulty levels, and scenic views across our local trail system. Whether you're looking for a gentle walk or a more challenging trek, you’ll explore diverse landscapes while learning about the natural and cultural features that make each location unique.

Discovery Hills Hike
Saturday, May 9 | 9 a.m. (Sign–in at 8:30 a.m.)
Please note: this is the second Saturdayof the month

Easy-to-Moderate: Discover the geographical features of the Discovery Hills region on this 5.3-mile “figure eight” hike. Trails and parks to be experienced will be Lakeview, Discovery Creek, Cima Loop, Rancho Tesoro and a traverse around South Lake. Minimal elevation gain/loss. 

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

Annual Trails Day Event 
Saturday, June 6 | 9 a.m. (Sign–in at 8:30 a.m.)

Get outside and explore San Marcos! Join us for a guided hike, bike ride, walk, or equestrian experience through our scenic parks and trails.

Choose your adventure:

• 5-mile hike to Double Peak Park with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain
• 5-mile bike ride along Discovery Trails and South Lake
• 1-mile interpretive walk around Discovery Lake
• 6-mile equestrian trot along the Ridgeline Trail (separate meeting location)

Location:
Lakeview Park, 650 Foxhall Drive, San Marcos

Equestrian sign-in (8:30 a.m.):
Ridgeline Trailhead Parking Lot (across from Double Peak Elementary School), 102 San Elijo Road

Schedule:
8:30 a.m. Check-in and booths open
9:00 a.m. Welcome
9:30–9:40 a.m. Activities begin

Equestrian trot check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. at Ridgeline Trailhead.

Heart of The City
Saturday, July 11 | 8 a.m. (Sign–in at 7:30 a.m.)
Please note: this is the second Saturday of the month

Easy-to-Moderate: A 6.5-mile loop hike with 580’ of elevation gain towards the northern city limits. We’ll pass through Civic Center Park using urban trails that follow the rail trail east; and then visit Hollandia Park and catch views of Mulberry Park. 

Meeting location: San Marcos Community Center (Outdoor Hearth), 3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos 92069.

Twilight Trek: A Hike Under the Stars 
Saturday, August 8 | 7:30 p.m. (Sign–in at 7 p.m.)
Please note: this is the second Saturday of the month

Moderate-To-Strenuous: Experience this San Marcos trail segment like never before. With a moderately difficult, 4.2-mile hike we will explore the Cerro de Las Posas ridgeline trails with evening overlooks of Lake San Marcos and the Valley of Discovery. There will be steep climbs with an elevation gain of 1390 feet. 

Meeting location: Double Peak Park, 910 Double Peak Drive, San Marcos 92078.

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.

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

Rooted in San Marcos: Native Plants and Their Usage 
Saturday, August 15 | 9 a.m. (Sign-in at 8:30 a.m.) 

Easy: Join us for a walk around Lakeview Park as we dive into the native plants that call San Marcos home, their unique adaptations that allow them to thrive and how some of these plants were used in the past. After the walk, stick around to plant native plants in your very own pot! 

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

Fire and Flora: How Wildfires Shape the Land 
Saturday, September 12 | 9 a.m. (Sign-in at 8:30 a.m.) 

Easy: Join us for a one mile walk around South Lake as we explore the vital role fire plays in our local chaparral ecosystem. Along the way, we’ll discuss how native plants and animals have adapted to thrive in arid conditions, learn about wildfire prevention, and take in the natural beauty South Lake has to offer. Afterwards, stick around to paint your own rocks based on your favorite plant of the day!

Meeting Location: South Lake Park, 975 Sunstone Dr, San Marcos, CA, 92078. (Parking is limited, No restrooms available on site)