Turf's Up!

Turf's Up!

When thinking of the famous “crests” of Del Mar, it's easy to imagine the majestic waves crashing down on the town’s iconic beaches. And while the swells definitely provide for great surf, head to the town’s turf for a different kind of crest. Enter Crest Canyon Open Space Park. A part of the southern section of San Dieguito Lagoon State Marine Conservation Area, the small but beautiful green space can be explored on a 2.2-mile loop that features famous flora, lagoon views, and sandstone cliffs. 

Park at the southeastern corner of the park (the intersection of Del Mar Heights Road and Durango Drive) to ensure comprehensive exploration of the charming yet rugged suburban oasis. Head north and avoid any spur trails as you parallel Durango Drive to your east and the beginning of great canyon views on your west. You may also have to spend some time on the sidewalk, as endangered Dudleya brevifolia succulents reside here (look for signs).

After just under a half-mile along the canyon rim, reach the official trailhead entrance at the intersection with Lozana Road. From here you descend into the canyon via some quaint wooden stairs, along the striking orange of steep-sloping sandstone cliffs. The reserve is populated with chaparral classics, like sagebrush, buckwheat, toyon, prickly-pear cactus, and even yucca (to name just a few), but hikers will notice the real stars right away: towering Torrey pines. There are multiple specimens throughout the hike as you meander north through current indigenous plant and habitat restoration efforts, with the San Dieguito Lagoon in your sights ahead.

The trail ends just past the 1-mile mark at Racetrack View Drive; here you’ll cross the road for a lagoon vista point (fittingly framed by the Del Mar fairgrounds). On the return trip heading south, take the leftmost trail (east side of the reserve) that heads toward those bluffs where it’s a tad more rugged before reconnecting with the original trail.

SUNSET TIP: Visit at sunset for crepuscular action—you may spot coyotes, rabbits, and quail, but also listen for towhee and the threatened California gnatcatcher.

To get to the southeast trailhead and entrance to Crest Canyon Open Space Park, take the I-5 to the Del Mar Heights Road exit and exit west. After 0.5 mile, you will reach the intersection with Durango Dr. Make a right to find immediate street parking and the trailhead. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View