At 2,272 acres and over 10 miles of multi-use trails, the Sycamore Canyon Open Space Preserve is a prime hiking destination in San Diego. The preserve includes the Goodan Ranch Visitor Center, adjacent to the original ranch house which burned almost in its entirety during the 2003 Cedar Fire.
The sweeping vistas and stunning views Sycamore Canyon Open Space Preserve offers can be accessed via two different trailheads: Goodan Ranch Staging Area, which I’ve previously covered, and the Highway 67 Staging Area. The main trail found at the Highway 67 Staging Area is the Ridge Trail.
When people ask me which trailhead I prefer, my answer is both have their advantages. The Goodan Ranch Staging Area offers Martha’s Grove, spectacular, lush green views and seasonal streams throughout almost the entirety of the hike after a season of decent rainfall. The Highway 67 Staging Area offers fewer trail options, but a more rigorous route for those looking for a cardio challenge.
At 5-miles in length, this out-and-back trail traverses a ridge that overlooks the surrounding Poway mountains. It also offers plenty of steep inclines and declines to keep your heart pounding and provides a full-body workout.
The Ridge Trail picks up at the very end of the parking lot, not marked by a kiosk or any sort of signage until you begin walking on the trail. However, it isn’t too difficult to find as it is the only trail that branches from the parking area.
At just a short 0.1-mile walk you’ll encounter a green sign that reads “Ridge Trail”. Follow the trail as it immediately begins to climb uphill. After your first initial ascent, you’ll find a covered wooden bench, a good spot to take your first water break and admire the surrounding views.
For the next 1.8 miles you’ll continue to walk along the ridge, the trail dipping and gaining elevation throughout. After walking just under 2 miles, the trail will veer to the right and quickly begin to lose elevation as you walk downhill. While this part of the trail is easy on the way down, it’s probably the most difficult part of the hike on the way back out.
At the bottom of the hill, the trail will meet up with the main trail that will take you to the Goodan Ranch Center. Turn right here to join the main trail. Follow the main trail for another 0.5 miles, ignoring spur trails you’ll encounter on the way. Soon, you’ll pass an old shed to your right. It may be worth a few minutes to stop, however there isn’t much to be seen here. What was more interesting was the dead wood and views behind the shed.
Continue forward for a short distance until you reach the Goodan Ranch Visitor Center, which will be on your left. On your right you’ll see the remains of the old original ranch house, plastered with “Keep Out” signs. The ranch belonged to May and Roger Goodan, whose ranch became a popular destination for friends and family on weekends and summer vacations.
Goodan Ranch Visitor Center
Near the Goodan Ranch Visitor Center you’ll find benches beneath the shade of trees looming above, a good place to stop and eat a snack before retracing your steps back uphill, across the ridge, and to the parking area.
Ridge Trail to Goodan Ranch Tips
Tip #1: Hike in cooler temperatures/months. Almost the entirety of this trail is exposed with limited shade.
Tip #2: Bring plenty of water. This hike not only has limited shade but is also rigorous.
Tip #3: Wear shoes with good traction. There are many steep and rocky portions on the trail.
Tip #4: Pack out what you pack in. Sycamore Canyon Open Space Preserve is immaculately kept, let’s keep it that way.
Tip #5: Watch out for rattlesnakes. In warm weather, I’ve spotted a few rattlesnakes in the middle of the trails.
Driving Directions
From downtown San Diego, take CA-163N for 11.2 miles. Merge onto I-15N. Use the right lane to take exit 14 for Pomerado Road toward Miramar Road. Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto Pomerado Road. Turn right to stay on Pomerado Road. In 1.2 miles, turn right onto Scripps Poway Pkwy. In 5.6 miles, turn right onto CA-67 S. Stay on CA-67 S for 0.7 miles, turning right onto a dirt road for Sycamore Canyon Open Space Preserve. Follow the dirt road for 1.4 miles until you reach a large dirt parking lot at the end of the road.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Total Distance: 5 miles
Trailhead Address: 13920 Highway 67, Lakeside, CA 92040
Park Brochure : Click here
