Hollenbeck Canyon Trail | Jamul, CA

Looking for a trail with light foot traffic, expansive fields, stunning mountain views, and patches of oak woodlands, all within a 30-minute drive from downtown San Diego? Look no further than the trails at Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife area—a 6,100-acre wildlife corridor situated between Otay Mountain and the Jamul Mountains. There are a number of trails to choose from at Hollenbeck Canyon, however my favorite is a 6-mile loop that traverses through oak woodlands, riparian forests, grasslands, and over mountains.

From the trailhead, follow the single-track, well-defined trail toward the mountains. At about 0.2-miles you’ll find a brown post with a yellow painted top for the California Riding and Hiking Trail (CRHT). You will see these markers along your hike and they will help guide you in the right direction. At 0.3-miles you’ll reach a cluster of old oaks. During certain times of year you may hear a stream that runs through the canyon.

At 0.5-miles you will reach your first fork. Follow the brown post with the yellow painted top to the left.  You’ll continue along a long stretch of fields. This area was once grazed, plowed, and cultivated prior to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife acquiring the land in 2001. The trail continues to cross through rolling foothills and past fences and empty holding pens.

At 3 miles you will begin a somewhat steep ascent uphill. This section isn’t too arduous for the moderate to experienced hiker, but may be challenging for beginner hikers. This is one of the more beautiful portions of the hike, with stunning views of the Otay Mountains to the south and Lyons Peak to the east. As you travel down and away from the mountains you’ll soon be greeted by the shady oaks. Past the oaks you will see the initial fork you reached at the beginning of your hike. Follow the trail to the left to return back to the trailhead and dirt parking lot.

Hollenbeck Canyon Tips

Tip #1: When in doubt, follow the brown posts with yellow painted tops to stay on course.

Tip #2: Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail so feel free to bring your furry friends.

Tip #3: This hike is largely exposed with little shade. It is best to hike it during winter and spring when temperatures are cooler and the surroundings are lush.

Tip #4: Hollenbeck Canyon is also ideal for mountain bikers with over 14 miles of trail networks to explore.

Tip #5: Stick to the trails to avoid the poison oak thriving along the banks.

Driving Directions

From northern San Diego, take I-8 east.  Take the Spring St. exit toward Downtown and stay in the right-hand lane to merge onto Spring St. Continue on Spring St. 1.3 miles and merge onto CA-94 East.  After 4.5 miles when the large portion of highway ends, turn right onto Campo Road/CA-94 and drive 8.9 miles through the town of Jamul and turn left onto Honey Springs road.  The trailhead is immediately on your left.

Elevation gain: 596 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

Total Distance: 5.69 miles

Trailhead Address: 1800-, 1898 Honey Springs Rd, Jamul, CA 91935