Name: Lower Creek Trail
Rating: 3.5

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Plan in onX Backcountry

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Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views

Family Friendly It's an easy introduction to hiking with views and a stream crossing

Closes after ½" or more of rain (or any snow) until trails dry out to prevent damage.

Description

Folks in Ramona, Julian, and Santa Ysabel undoubtedly know about Santa Ysabel Open Space but I feel it gets overlooked by San Diegans in their rush to visit the Anza-Borrego desert, stuff their mouths with pie in Julian, or complete a day driving loop through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. That's too bad because they are missing an easy hike with whimsical views in land that stays green longer owing to its elevation.

The trail follows a dirt road with a small climb before dropping to Santa Ysabel Creek near the end and then climbing away from the creek. It's mostly exposed so take plenty of water if you're hiking in the summer. Having come 2 miles already, it works well to complete a lollipop route via the short Santa Ysabel Ridge Trail, a segment of the Coast to Crest Trail: Santa Ysabel West to Highway 79 trail, and the Santa Ysabel Upper Creek Trail, before returning the way you came.