Located in the heart of San Diego, the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve is easily accessible from the 805, 15 and 56 freeways. The main feature of the canyon trail is Penasquitos Creek, which runs the length of the preserve. Hikers can find a secluded spot with a seasonal waterfall located just a little over 3 miles west of the Black Mountain Road trailhead that is suitable for a picnic lunch.
The preserve offers a variety of hiking trails on both sides of the creek, with a few creek crossings and a couple of bridges. This 6.4 mile route is just one of the several options available for visitors to explore Penasquitos Creek. The Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach trail is a family-friendly hike that provides an opportunity to explore the natural and historical beauty of San Diego.
Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach trail info.
- Distance: 6.4 miles
- Hiking time: 3 hours
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 300’
- Difficulty: 3/10
- Usage: Hiking, Trail running, Mountain biking, Dogs allowed, Good for kids
- When to go: All year
- Permits Required: Day use fee
- Agency: San Diego Parks & Recreation
Map & directions for Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach
- Trail map
- Directions to trailhead (via Google Maps)
More trails near Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach
- Black Mountain
- Cowles Mountain South Trail
- Iron Mountain
- Kwaay Paay Peak
- Mt. Woodson & Potato Chip Rock
- North Fortuna Peak
- Pyles Peak
- South Fortuna Peak
Additional links & resources
- Park Info: San Diego.gov
- Article: SanDiegoReader.com
- Trail report: ModernHiker.com
Photos of Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach
- John Muir Trail Day 13 – Mt. Whitey Summit from Crabtree Meadows Past Guitar Lake - January 10, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 12 – Vidette Meadows Over Forester Pass to Crabtree Meadows. - January 9, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 11 – Lake Marjorie over Pinchot Pass and Glen Pass to Vidette Meadows. - January 8, 2017