The City of San Diego's Parks and Recreation Department manages and maintains the trails of San Pasqual and Clevenger Canyon, located east of the San Pasqual Valley. These trails offer great hiking and bird watching and are part of the San Dieguito River Park. Note that bicyclists and equestrians are not allowed.

History

Many years ago, these trails were used by the Kumueyaay Indians who found ample food and medical resources along the trails. Historians believe the trails allowed them to collect more than 12,000 native plants. Spanish settlement in 1769 began a process of drastic change for the Kumeyaay people. Missionaries introduced new social and religious practices, and settlers claimed land for agriculture and cattle ranching, which became the area's economic mainstay.

When Mexico ceded California to the United States in 1848 following the Mexican-American War, most ranches were dissolved. Years later, a man named John Clevenger and his family settled in the San Pasqual Valley and began farming dairy and wheat, which proved to be a major source of income for them and for those who followed them. In recent years, avocados and citrus have become profitable for people in the area.

Today

This area is characterized by its steep canyons and peaks, formed over a local fault line. The landscape is dominated by granite bedrock and reddish, coarse, sandy loam from weathered granite. These unique soil conditions support a southern mixed chaparral plant community, with chamise, ceanothus, and scrub oak being prominent. Rare Englemann Oaks are also found here, providing vital food and shelter for abundant wildlife. Notably, poison oak berries, though harmful to humans, serve as a significant food source for many animal species.

Hiking

Trail Map 

Both trailheads have paved parking, but lack restrooms and prohibit overnight camping. Hikers are advised to carry plenty of water due to hot canyon temperatures.

The south trailhead offers two shorter trails: A 1.5-mile west trail that gently climbs to an overlook of San Pasqual Valley. A 2.3-mile east trail that descends to a shaded ravine before climbing to a 1,755-foot summit, offering views of San Pasqual Valley.

The north trailhead is a more challenging 20-mile round trip offering more variety and solitude. However, it is poorly maintained with overgrown sections and lacks directional markers, making it difficult to follow. Hikers are advised to stop when the trail is no longer defined. Maps can be obtained by calling the Park Ranger's office.

Directions

To get to San Pasqual and Clevenger Canyon from downtown San Diego, take state Route 163 north and continue onto Interstate 15 north. Exit at Via Rancho Parkway and travel east. Turn right on San Pasqual Valley Road and follow signs to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The southern trailhead is located 5.3 miles from San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and the northern tail head is 5.8 miles ahead. Parking lots are open from sunrise to sunset.

For more information on San Pasqual—Clevenger Canyon Open Space Park, call the Park Ranger's office at 858-538-8082.

To report suspected illegal activity, including transient encampments, encroachment onto City property, or other maintenance needs, please call 858-538-8082. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.