An unfortunate series of vandalism events led to the closure of Annie’s Canyon Trail. This site, formerly known as Mushroom Caves , was technically off-limits to hikers for years, although many people still explored the area. This trail was bedecked in graffiti and a haven for underage drinking and other illegal behavior. Now, after hours of restoration with the help of volunteers, Annie’s Canyon Trail is now safe and open again to the public once again. And what a restoration they did. The trail is nearly free of graffiti and is easier and safer to hike than before.
Annie’s Canyon Trail is a short .25-mile loop trail accessible from three different trailheads :
- Rios Avenue Trailhead—.6-miles
- Solana Hills Trailhead—.6-miles
- La Orilla Trailhead—2.1-miles
All three will take you through the naturally eroding sandstone walls, created long ago by water which sculpted the sandstone into narrow slots. Water exposure is also evidenced in the dramatic shift in colors you will see on the sandstone.
This post will cover the La Orilla Trailhead, for those looking to extend their hike and take the longer route. After parking in a small turnout on the left hand of El Camino Real, you will see a sign for the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. Follow this trail as you pass beneath the shade of trees looming overhead. The greenery on this portion of the trail is impressive. Many times I felt as though I had been transported out of San Diego and into Oregon, even in the midst of summer. Aside from greenery there are also a number of benches you’ll pass on your route. Each is marked with a quote related to nature.
After you break free from the greenery, you will be presented with three different options: turn left, continue straight, or turn right. Continue on the La Orilla Trail by walking straight when you approach the fork. The trail continues through a large field and again forks. Stay straight and do not veer to the right (this will lead you away from Annie’s Canyon Trail and onto a different trail). Soon, the trail becomes fenced in by wood posts and you will have the option to continue straight along a narrow trail or turn left on a wider fenced path. The wider trail will take you up into housing developments. Follow the narrow trail toward the sound of cars driving on the I-5 ahead.
This portion of the trail is straightforward, a single path winding down towards the busy interstate ahead. Continue to follow the trail beneath the overpass. When you emerge on the other side of the overpass, you’ll be greeted by captivating views of the San Elijo Lagoon to your right. Follow the upper trail as it loops to the right. Soon you’ll be walking along the newly renovated portion of the trail, evidenced by the brand new wood chippings beneath your feet.
Annie’s Canyon Trail will appear to your left. Continue to follow the trail until you reach a second sign, informing you of the two different routes you may take. I’d recommend the “strenuous” loop trail to the right. While the trail is considered “strenuous” it mostly consists of climbing up carved footsteps in sandstone walls.
As you make your way through the narrow sandstone canyons, you’ll pass by a cave to your left. You’ll notice the cave is still covered in graffiti. Unfortunately, due to the environmental sensitive nature of the area, it was not possible to remove all traces of graffiti. This serves as a reminder that defacing nature has long-term consequences and destroys the beauty of our natural environment.
Once you pass the cave, the walls will grow narrower and the trail will gradually bring you up to the view point. Admire the views of the Pacific Ocean from afar and the San Elijo Lagoon below. Once you’ve had your fair share of admiring the stunning vistas surrounding you, follow the switchbacks downhill. Once you reach the bottom, re-trace your steps back to reach the La Orilla Trailhead.
For those who have previously been to Mushroom Caves, Annie’s Canyon Trail is a dramatic improvement. Not only is the trail rid of most traces of graffiti, it is also much easier to navigate thanks to the new guided path and newly constructed switchbacks. There are also plenty of signs advising where to not go off the trail. I suspect this trail will grow in popularity in San Diego, thanks to the countless volunteers who made this possible. My thanks to all of you!
Annie’s Canyon Trail Tips
Tip #1: Let’s keep Annie’s Canyon beautiful. If you see anyone defacing any part of this trail, contact authorities immediately.
Tip #2: Dogs on leashes can hike this trail.
Tip #3: There are no restroom facilities on this trail. Take care of business beforehand.
Tip #4: There are a number of spur trails on the La Orilla Trail to Annie’s Canyon Trail. When in doubt, head towards the ocean and the I-5 freeway.
Tip #5: Stay on the designated trail at Annie’s Canyon. There are a number different opportunities to venture off path and explore other portions of the slot canyon that are unsafe and should not be attempted.
Tip #6: Bring a backpack for your supplies. You will need both your hands to climb up to the view point.
Tip #7: Wear shoes with good traction. The climb up to the view point is sandy and slippery.
Driving Directions to La Orilla Trailhead
From Downtown San Diego: Take I-5 N to Lomas Sante Fe Drive (exit 37). Continue on Lomas Sante Fe Drive. Turn right onto Lomas Sante Fe Drive. Turn left onto Highland Drive. Turn left onto El Camino Real. A small turnout with parking spots will be on your left.
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 4.2 miles
Trailhead Address: 16230 – 16398 El Camino Real, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
