Lake Hodges - #LakeHodges

Socal - San Diego County - Escondido NickNames: #LakeHodges

Exit I-15 at Via Ranco Parkway, head east, turn rght on Sunset, go to end of cul-de-sac. General purpose trail. Controlled access to side trails. Fairly easy ride with nice views of the lake. Try the south side of the lake, across the I-15 bridge, for somewhat more challenging terrain and less crowded trails. Thomas Guide page 1150

55 Review(s)7 Photo(s)Login

• Trail UpdateGreat January Sunday-I hadn't ridden this trail since well before the fire, but I was pleased to see how the area has recovered. Also, the recent rains have refilled the lake, so it's all nicer than my last ride.

  I parked across from Hernandez' Hideaway and rode east. The first bit is great winding singletrack, but watch for walkers and runners. There is a stretch through the main recreational area, along and across the paved road, but when I was there the road was closed to vehicles. You finally cross the road and head for the singletrack on the hill.

  There are some washed out areas, and one big ditch you can barrel through if you have the momentum. You finally have a choice of staying on the dirt fire road or heading farther up. That requires a short, steep climb, but I saw the single speed dudes take it. From their you have narrow singletrack, so watch your turns and for other riders. Eventually the fire road rises to meet it and it's a wide ride from there to I-15 and the other trailhead.

  There is one way cool water crossing, maybe 6"-9", near the eastern end. From either direction track to the outside of the curve across the water for the easiest crossing and momentum up the other side.

  Well worth the trip.
  First Sarnt a 60 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Jamis Dakar XCR Comp from Encinitas

  Posted:02/17/2011

• Trail UpdateHodges Trail-Rode this trail today, for the first time in probably 3 yrs, and wow was it different. There is a portion closed that now requires a detour right as you hit the dirt, and the fire has really taken its toll out there. Majority of the trail from the parking lot to the marina is the same, just little differences here and there. Couldn't believe how low the creek was..I can remember time where that water crossing was a good 2 ft deep, and getting wet was getting lucky...soaked was more like it. Still a fun little trail, fairly easy ride. Single track was nice as the plants have somewhat filled in. Watch out for snakes if you go in the later morning as I saw some fresh tracks when riding back. Also please obey the signs to stay on trail, saw some rangers out there today working to get the trail back to how it was so follow the rules and give them some time to get the job done.
  schrader a 21 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Fisher Tassajarra from Loma Linda/Escondido

  Posted:07/22/2008

• Trail UpdateI see there is constuction on the trail. Do anyone know if the trail is open to bike?
  BikeLover

  Posted:01/15/2008

• Trail UpdateHeartbroken-Rode the north side for the first time since the fires. It breaks my heart to see what the fires did to this place. It doesn't even look the same. To make matters worse, the rain we recently had has added to the destruction. The place looks like a combat zone. Many of the fun singletrack trails are off limits, but you can still ride from "Hernandez Hideaway" to I15. It's just not as fun right now. If you plan to ride just to check it out yourself, I recommend you wait a few days to let the water/dirt dry up. The dirt is very soft, which slows you down immensely. Please abide by the signs and stay on the designated trails. I don't want to loose a good thing. Lead, Follow, or Get out of the way!!! Retired GySgt/USMC.
  Conejo3rd (Art) a 44 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Specialized Bighit / Yeti 575-08 from San Marcos, Ca.

  Posted:01/08/2008

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges North & South Update-Lake Hodges Trail North and South were closed due to the recent fires. The north side is now open and the south side remains closed. Even though the north side is open, there are several sections that are closed. There are several detours all around the area and the last part that goes to the dam is still closed due to the construction of the aqua duct. This section should re open sometime in 2008. Even though some areas are closed, I still had fun and managed to put in around 15 miles round trip.
  Marco Topete a 49 year old Weekend Warrior riding a TREK Liquid from San Diego

  Posted:12/29/2007

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-This is a very fun trail. Worth the drive.
  Kayvman a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Mongoose from Chula Vista URL: Mario's space

  Posted:01/13/2007

• Trail UpdateIt's open all the way to Hernandez Hideaway. Trail is closed just past that.
  Denduro a 31 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Heavily upgraded Spec Enduro

  Posted:12/03/2006

• Trail UpdateI was wondering if the trail from The Self Storage to the Lake is still open? It looks closed from all the construction going on.
  LazyBeaner a 29 year old Weekend Warrior riding a SC Nomad and an old HT from San Diego

  Posted:11/16/2006

• Trail UpdateTrail West Of Del Dios Highway-Does anyone have any info on the trail that heads west from the west side of Lake Hodges near the intersection of Del Dios Highway and Date Lane? There is currently a fence with a no-trespassing sign, but it looks like you could easily go around the fence. From looking at maps, it appears it may connect up to the Elfin Forest area. Does anyone know whether (1) this trail is worth riding, and/or (2) the no-trespassing sign is enforced???
  JD a 33 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Gary Fisher Aquila from San Diego

  Posted:07/07/2006

• Trail UpdateSaturday Double-Header-Rode Hodges yesterday morning for the first time. Weather wasn't very good, was somewhat chilly (for so Cal) and misting. Trail was pretty tacky and still somewhat wet, but was a fun ride. Nice little creek crossing. It's definitely a good scenic ride for beginners. Lots of fireroads. Decent amount of climbing, but not difficult at all. Trail was definitely pretty busy with hikers/joggers and equestrians.
  stumpygirl a 24 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Specialized Stumpjumper 120 Expert from So Cal

  Posted:10/23/2005

• Trail UpdateBernanrdo Mtn Directions-http://www.mountainbikebill.com/LakeHodgesNorth.htm(this link should get you there)
  GhostRider a 31 year old URL: Lake Hodges - North

  Posted:05/30/2005

• Trail UpdateBernardo Mountain Directions?-OK, I've been told to go climb a mountain, so to speak. But how do ya get to whatever trails lead up to Bernardo Mountain? Help a brutha with some directions! Thanks!
  The Seaclasper a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Rising Tide of Public Sympathy from Mira Messy

  Posted:05/30/2005

• Trail UpdateFound Keys-I found a set of keys at Lake Hodges on Friday, 5/27. My buds and I searched around for any would be owners for quite awhile. We also waited at the trailhead for awhile too, but to no avail. Email me if you think they might be yours.
  Denduro a 30 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Specialized Enduro Expert

  Posted:05/29/2005

• Trail UpdateHey Seaclasper, you need to throw in Bernardo Mountain on your ride. It adds some good cardio and tech to the otherwise slow ride. The rest of this place deserves to be mowed down at uberspeed.
  Hodges Destroyer a Cross-Country Rider riding a painted green machine

  Posted:05/03/2005

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-I have been hesitant to hit Lake Hodges since moving to SD a year ago, having heard how tame and boring it is... Well, it is relatively tame, but like most places I go biking in the county, it was a pleasant surprise. There is some real pretty country back in there once you get away from the 15 - I'm sure the recent rains had a lot to do with this, but there were wildflowers everywhere! Unfortunately, they probably also contributed to the overgrowth that was choking the available 'singletrack' (which in many areas appears to be an old truck trail that has seen happy neglect). I did a serious tick-check when I got home!

  I agree with some of the previous reviews, this is a great place to bring a beginner. Even for experienced bikers, it's a nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon...
  The Seaclasper a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a anything but an ORV from San Dee Eggo

  Posted:05/02/2005

• Trail UpdateActual "update"-
  The tree clearing continues, now including the entire area adjacent to the "Sailboard lauch" area where the chemical toilet and picnic bench are, also. The Eucs and brush are all sawn/whipped down.

  The crews doing it confirmed this is in preparation for the pumphouse/pipeline project and that they're clearing the trees to prevent project delays due to nested birds. They also said the ultimate installation of the pumphouse will require the lake to be drained down 20 feet. Niiiice.
  EBasil riding a Manitou HT from San Diego

  Posted:02/07/2005

• Trail UpdateTreebeard, I'm going to tear down the bait shop next. It blocks my view of good trails. Some of the buldozers need to be dismantled too. Keep up the uberspeed.

  
  Hodges Destroyer a Cross-Country Rider riding a Painted over green machine

  Posted:02/07/2005

• Trail UpdateFence Damage/Hodges Destroyer-I witnessed the "Hodges Destroyer" tear down the fence at the grinding stones last year... the only thing he accidentally hit was his head as a child... He was just an angry asshole ripping the fence apart in a fit meth/roid mania. He was riding some neon green POS, ranting about how he's been riding Lake Hodges for 20 years and no one can tell him to do anything (nice skintight shorts dude... stuck in the 80's?). I filed a report with the sheriffs & rangers...they'll keeping any eye out for him.

  This kind of ass is obviously the biggest threat to MTB riders. His sociopathic actions risk the privileges of the other 99% of sane and grateful riders who have access to such a nice trail so close to metropolis.

  Remember, when you see someone damaging the trail, or riding off trail, or doing any kind illegal stuff, use that camera phone, take a photo, then call the Rangers : Todd 858-674-2275 x17 or David at x18 (Todd’s a big Costa Rica Surf fan, and David’s an Epic mountain biker...both very kewl guys!)

  See you on the trail!
  
  Treebeard

  Posted:02/06/2005

• Trail UpdateGood Workout But...-This is a nice trail for a decent one to one and a half hour ride. The long climbs are tame with a low grade, offering a good cardio workout. A short single track section, at about the halfway point will break the monotony and really bring a little life to this trail. Recommended for the MTB beginner. The intermediate to advance riders will likely find it a little boring. Good family trail.
  Ride rating: Novice
  Singletrack=30% Dirt Road=70%
  a 36 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Marin Mount Vision

  Posted:02/04/2005

• Trail UpdateGood Workout But...-This is a nice trail for a decent one to one and a half hour ride. The long climbs are tame with a low grade, offering a good cardio workout. A short single track section, at about the halfway point will break the monotony and really bring a little life to this trail. Recommended for the MTB beginner. The intermediate to advance riders will likely find it a little boring. Good family trail.
  Ride rating: Novice
  Singletrack=30% Dirt Road=70%
  a 36 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Marin Mount Vision

  Posted:02/04/2005

• Trail UpdateBrush Clearing-Never said I thought there was a conspiracy going on. I'm just saying that I'm amazed that so much clearing could take place with the Rangers being totally oblivious. Maybe they didn't have anything to do with it and another agency did the work without asking them first. I would just think that the Rangers would notice all the commotion and at least take a look see.
  DS from Logical Thinking Mt Biker's Club

  Posted:01/28/2005

• Trail UpdateBrush Clearing-I too have seen this carnage and if I had to guess I would bet this is related to the pipeline that is to eventually connect Hodges w/ the new Elfin Forest reservoir. From some of the maps I’ve seen that area appears to be the approximate location of the pipeline end. A bit surprised the Hodges rangers would not know about this though….
  Fireplug41 a 41 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant NRS1 from SD

  Posted:01/26/2005

• Trail UpdateBrush Clearing-Well, he was either lying to cover up a deep seated conspiracy, or the work was done by a division of the City other than the Water Department (for whom the SDRP RAngers work, instead of Parks & Rec). I choose to believe the latter, based on the radio inquiries made in my presence. Feel free to stick with the conspiracy theory, if you really need to...
  
  EBasil riding a Manitou HT or a Fisher Cake from National Security Agency, Black Ops Trails Division

  Posted:01/26/2005

• Trail UpdateConcerning The Brush Clearing-I rode there today and was very suprised by the new look of the singletrack that has been cleared. I can't decide if I like it better than the old way or not. I just don't see how the ranger could not know what it was about though. It must have taken quite awhile to clear all that brush and trees, and I don't see how the ranger could have NOT know about it. I guess we will have to wait and see what's going on.
  DS riding a Specialized Enduro Expert from North County

  Posted:01/25/2005

• Trail UpdateOpen, Great, And A Few Surprises-
  Both the north and south side of Lake Hodges are open, in basically great shape and very rideable.

  On the north side, if you start at the Via Rancho Parkway side, the "high route" is absolutely great, although that ladder bridge at the stream crossing is gone. We tossed a scavenged 2x10 there today, but it's better to ride the crossing and it's only about 8 inches deep. From there back to where you rejoin the "low route" it's a little rockier, but not muddy, not slimey at all. The low route is dry and excellent from the east to its water crossing, which is about 10" deep and a little wider than before. The climb up to where the high route links in is not muddy and only a little rockier.

  The fun singletrack descent from the high route to just east of the lower water crossing is very rutted and has a massive 3' deep rut where the "notch" used to be. There's a line very high to the left, but the center is sketch.

  From that point to the lake, the route is excellent, and the low route is dry. The upper route is buffed with a few mud puddles you should ride straight through, rather than widening the trail.

  Past the Del Dios Store the singletrack to Hernandez Hideaway is in great shape. The first stream crossing is somewhat abrupt...take the upstream side or just jump. There are a few minor washouts that make the trail more rocky, but everything is great until just past Hernandez...where there's an 8' wide washout the entire width of the trail. It has yellow tape marking it today, but be aware..it's also 5' deep. The rangers are cool with you walking around it, and the trails are perfect all the way to the dam, except for one thing:

  Someone has installed orange construction fencing and then clearcut the brush starting south of the washout and stopping north of the old/new sailboarder launch site where the chemical toilet is. The Ranger didn't know what the F this was all about, so hold on for news. Even if it's not pre-bulldozing, the winding singletrack is no longer in brush tunnels, but rather a flat field. Bummer.

  SOUTH Hodges is freaking perfect. Some ruts, a few wet spots to ride right through, but basically very little storm damage.

  That's all I got.
  EBasil riding a Manitou HT or a Fisher Cake from San Diego

  Posted:01/22/2005

• Trail UpdateWell, the Rangers must have too much time on their hands. They have been out again with the grader messing up the trails again. The hill East of the marina is one of the latest victims. They have managed to turn the ground into washboard smoothness--very bumpy. And for what? I just don't understand.

  The singletrack by Hernandez near the closed section has also been severely jacked up. They have graded away all the rocks to make it smooth--that is except for the 4 inches of super loose dirt left in it's place. God forbid anybody should have to ride/walk over bumpy rocks!! The Rangers in their infinite wisdom left about 30 feet of the trail covered in very deep dirt--I could barely pedal through it. Thanks again guys, you rock.

  Have you ever considered taking up a hobby that doesn't include grading?? Maybe stamp collecting or bird watching or long walks off short bridges??
  DS a Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Spec Enduro

  Posted:08/24/2004

• Trail UpdateWhat Up?-Oh, sorry about the fence damage. I was cranking at my usual uber speed and it was too late to avoid the idiotic fences put up on that section. There ought to be some warning or something.

  
  
  Hodges Destroyer

  Posted:07/12/2004

• Trail UpdateDon't Vandalize-
  If you ride the singletracks on the west side of the lake, you know that the Rangers elected to close off a section of rocky trail near Hernadez Hideaway, leaving trail users to take an alternate, lower route. It's a bummer, because the closed section of trail was pretty fun for runners and cyclists, but it IS the Rangers' decision and it's been made.

  Unfortunately, somebody has been knocking down and breaking the wood rail fences installed to close off the trail, and even more unfortunately the cycling community is getting the blame. Who knows, it may be fair or unfair to blame us, but put out the word: quit the vandalism.

  If you see the fences and they're down, put'em back up.

  
  EBasil riding a Manitou HT from San Diego

  Posted:07/12/2004

• Trail UpdateSome Trail Work Done-We rode "north" Hodges, ie leaving from the lot east of I-15 and out to the dam, on Saturday. Other than the areas where some trail work was just done, the trails are in great shape (it's loose and dusty in the work areas).

  Three of the "vees" between the upper singletrack and the paved road around the lake have been scraped and smoothed so that they're grader-blade wide. They're also silty and about 4" deep of dust right now. The two more westerly vees, including the one with water in the bottom, weren't touched.

  Once getting past Hernandez Hideaway while riding the singletracks west/south, the short rocky climb section there has been fenced off and closed. Trail traffic is directed to the lower trail directly adjacent to it. Bummer--I'd rather have seen the lower trail closed, it's got a big hole on one side, just waiting to swallow a night rider...
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Singletrack=50% Dirt Road=40% Paved Path=10%
  EBasil riding a Fisher Cake from San Diego

  Posted:05/24/2004

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-did a hodges ride today due to the limited trail options. i parked at the trail head along side the I15 overpass. it was nice and cool temps probably in the low 70s, not very crowded and a pretty relaxing ride. i rode the trail to the dam and back mostly fire roads with some fun non technical single/double track. this trail is easy enough for a novice but fun for an intermediate
  Ride rating: Novice
  Singletrack=20% Dirt Road=80%
  rockstar a 31 year old Weekend Warrior riding a santa cruz blur from san diego

  Posted:11/09/2003

• Trail UpdateDel Dios Side-Rode the trail on the Del Dios side of the lake today. We parked across the street from Hernandez Hideaway restaurant. If you head down Valley Pkwy out of Escondido, just follow the signs.
  Trail was mostly roller coaster single track, with some easy climbs. Only real challenge here is the amount of rocks on the trail, but it is nothing a novice couldn't work around. Awesome views of the lake through the entire ride, all the way to the dam. The scenery alone makes this a great trail. Can't wait to ride it again!!!
  Ride rating: Novice
  Singletrack=90% Dirt Road=10%
  DS a 28 year old Weekend Warrior riding a TREK from Fallbrook

  Posted:10/12/2003

• Trail UpdateSDRP Patrol Note-.
  Greetings!
  I'm with the SDRP Volunteer Patrol.
  1) Please stay on the designated trails. (This is a protected habitat area!)
  2) Please watch out for slow movers on the single track. (there are some huffy riders out there!)
  3) Bring lots of water! It's very hot in the summer.
  4) Watch out for snakes!
  Stop by our website for more info on the trails!
  
  Adam a Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant Warp DS1 from Del Dios, CA URL: River Park

  Posted:07/16/2003

• Trail UpdateCool Nights, Buffed Singletrack-
  This is a good place for night rides: you're away from homes and street lights, the regular trail "traffic" is gone and the singletracks on the Del Dios side are buffed and twisty. The Black Mustard is in major bloom right now, and some of the maybe 4' wide trails have more like 18" of visual width right now...really fun at night. Water in the streams, but not much in the lake!

  Make out-n-back loops from the I-15 side or the lot at Hernandez Hideaway.

  We thought we were the only ones out there last night, and then as we were packing up at around 10, out came three more riders with HID lights (1 or 2). Get more than 50 feet apart, and you'd never see them unless one of those HID's was coming your way.
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 8 Elevation change:
  Singletrack=50% Dirt Road=30% Truck Trail=20%
  EBasil a Weekend Warrior riding a Manitou HT from San Diego

  Posted:04/25/2003

• Trail UpdateUPDATE ON SAVE BERNARDO MOUNTAIN-In early July, the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy announced an agreement to purchase the undeveloped 232 acres of Bernardo Mountain. A target of $500,000 of community support was set to match the $3.6 million in state grants and loan commitments that have been secured in order to meet the September 1, 2002 purchase deadline for the property. More than 200 individuals and groups have donated just over $300,000. The conservancy needs to raise the remaining $200,000 by Sept. 1. With only weeks remaining to meet the September 1, 2002 purchase deadline, there is still a big hill to climb to raise the additional $200,000 in community support needed to complete the deal. If the organization doesn't collect the money by then, the purchase will be terminated and the conservancy will lose the governmental grants that are contingent on the sale. People wanting additional information about the Save Bernardo Campaign can call the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy at 858-755-6956 or visit the citizen-designed website savebernardomountain.com.

  Posted:08/12/2002

• Trail UpdateSAVE BERNARDO MOUNTAIN-HELP! Bernardo Mountain is threatened by a proposed housing development. An out-of-town developer wants to build 42 houses on the side of the mountain. The planned development will ELIMINATE TRAIL ACCESS to the Mountain.

  A Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been prepared for the project. It is currently being circulated for public review. It is available at the Escondido Public Library and City Hall in the Planning Division. I believe the Draft EIR does not adequately address serious environmental problems with the project. I encourage you to review it yourself. The public review period is your opportunity to provide comments on issues related to the proposed project.

  However, YOU MUST SEND IN YOUR COMMENTS TO THE CITY OF ESCONDIDO PLANNING DIVISION NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY MAY 29, 2002. Comments should be directed to: Bill Martin, City of Escondido Planning Division, 201 North Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025.

  Thank you for your anticipated concern about the future of Bernardo Mountain.

  Posted:05/16/2002

• Trail UpdateMount Bernardo-is a great workout going up, and a thrill to descend. Did it last Sunday for the second time with 4 dabs. The hobbit trail section is a lesson in climbing balance (rut and branch obstacles on either side makes for a 2 inch line in spots), and visually stimulating. I did walk some by the water tank. That big rock by the tank crest is tough to push over when you are anaerobic. I saw a family on the way up. The two boys (8 at most) were sort of riding. They are troopers! That hill stops most adults.

  About the rock ledge by Hideaway, I don't know the line. I've considered it many a time, but figured it wasn't worth the wreck I imagine. I think copying the ledge down would be the safest, although not as exciting option. Flying off that would be fun, but the big rock seems an unavoidable obstacle.

  Cheers!
  Mike Kim from Carlsbad

  Posted:05/09/2001

• Trail UpdateIt's Been A Long Time...-Hadn't been to the top in a while. Sure is killer getting up there just as the sun is setting. Enjoyed the view at the top a little too much last night I guess, since it was pitch black by the time I got back to my car @ the Hideaway. It's cool though, got to play my favorite game, "Dodge that Tree."

  BTW, anyone doing that new little rock drop on the lower section near the Hideaway? If you are, how can you make that quick left-hander? I see the tracks going off of the rock, but I can't find the line.

  And as always...the post-ride Negro Modelos @ Hernandez' Hideaway kicked ass!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 12 miles Elevation change: 1000
  Singletrack=80% Dirt Road=12% Paved Path=7%
  Red Riding Hood a 28 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Steel Hardtail with Judy SL from Del Mar, CA

  Posted:07/27/2000

• Trail UpdateMount Bernardo Transition-Whoa! I found the trail finally. From a new person's perspective, this was a killer! I walked some of it, and barley crawled other parts. After the water tank, boulders the size of my fist and larger are everywhere, making traction difficult. The mailbox is up there alright, and I made my note to the world. A great ride down, and a good hill to learn on for us new guys. Just be patient...it took me an hour or so to get there (couldn't stay on the bike). A gorgeous view is the reward!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 10 miles Elevation change: +/- 1000ft
  Singletrack=50% Dirt Road=25% Paved Path=25%
  ATPMatt (formerly MEIMatt) a 26 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Schwinn S[9five].2 All-Weather Interceptor from San Marcos,CA

  Posted:07/18/2000

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges (South Side)-If you're looking for a little more of a challenge than the north side trails there are some fairly good trails on the south side of the lake that are worth checking out. Not a terribly long ride and a little over grown in spots but less crouded than the north side. Good for a short evening ride!!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Singletrack=50% Truck Trail=50%
  Rick a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Univega DS900 from San Diego

  Posted:05/30/2000

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges (South Side)-If you're looking for a little more of a challenge than the north side trails there are some fairly good trails on the south side of the lake that are worth checking out. Not a terribly long ride and a little over grown in spots but less crouded than the north side. Good for a short evening ride!!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Singletrack=50% Truck Trail=50%
  Rick a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Univega DS900 from San Diego

  Posted:05/30/2000

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-Take the singletrack that branches off by the second boat dock. The trip is worth it when you see the view. It can be steep at times and a little technical in places. Be careful in your travels, we had an outbreak of Poison Sumac and/or Poison Oak.
  a 20 year old Cross-Country Rider

  Posted:05/18/2000

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-The rocky, technical section in the middle has been smoothed over. Looks like the rocks were removed and loose dirt put in it's place. Takes some of the challenge away from this trail. By the way, on a personal note, I slammed pretty hard at the bottom of the deep creek crossing yesterday (that slippery rock just jumped at my front wheel, I swear!), to the bemusement of some observers. Just learned from my friendly doc I fractured my wrist in the process, although I didn't think so at the time. I rode on enjoying the trail, taking some masochistic pleasure in riding like a wounded warrior. I think my bike mind took over my sense of reason. Oh well, I learned the hard way. I'll be back in 4-6 weeks, so they say. MikekiM from Ocean Beach.

  Posted:03/27/2000

• Trail UpdateTop Of The World-Been riding here for years. This is where I learned how to ride a bike! Lots of trails to ride. Never gets boring. Mount Bernardo trail is a must. Such a great view. Such great memories. Can you find all the trails? I doubt it.
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: Lots Elevation change: 855 feet
  Singletrack=35% Dirt Road=45% Paved Path=20%
  Rich a 17 year old Downhiller riding a Mongoose from Escondido

  Posted:01/22/2000

• Trail UpdateLake Hodgdes(mailbox Climb)-the ride was great. Get the climb outa the way first (if you start on the east side of 15). the rest of the ride is a cruiser. i went to the dam and back. about 18 miles?
  Ride distance: 18-20 miles Elevation change: 800ft
  Singletrack=75% Dirt Road=75% Paved Path=50%
  voodoochildS.D. a 30 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a hard tail

  Posted:12/25/1999

• Trail UpdateFinally found the trail that goes up past the water tank to the top of the mounntain (Bernardo Mtn.?) It's the one with the small box and notebook on top where you leave your name or message. Very cool. The singletrack is steep in sections and tunnel-like. Great fun but it was blazing hot on 10/8. Lots of fun coming down. . .like Anderson Truck Trail. To get there, start from the parking lot on north side of lake, ride the usual upper trail over the creek, and when leaving the creek bed hang a right on the singletrack (instead of usual left). It's about a mile and a half to the top, though I didn't clock it. Spectacular 360 degree view on top. Watch out for the bees about one-third of the way up!!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Singletrack=100%
  Mark a Cross-Country Rider riding a Hardtail from San Diego

  Posted:10/11/1999

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-Nothin fancy here. From the I15 freeway to the dam and back is a good ride if you are just wanting a semi long,(16 miles) easy ride. It's worth checking out if you have never been there. Great views of the lake from the north shore trail. This ride is definately not for those of you who like to shread the dirt. In fact there are too many other trail users to really open it up for very long. Oh by the way, Many thanks to all you idiots who don't think you need to leash your dogs. (Like the last guy wrote, good for practicing your slalom skills). Multi use trail doesn't mean use a leash if you want to. Have some respect for the rest of us and keep your dogs under control.
  Singletrack=75% Dirt Road=15% Truck Trail=10%
  Rick a 36 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Univega DS900 from San Diego

  Posted:03/16/1999

• Trail UpdateThe Mt.Penasquitos Loop is 12.2 miles out & back from Hernandez's Hideaway. The lower portion is becoming increasingly crowded (good if you're into slalom). Once you start climbing it opens up and you rarely see anyone. The trail has been pimp since the El Nino rains and continues to shine. Berms and little hits all over. Going in the downhill direction its possible to hit the 25+mph range. The best part of the trail continues to be the Hideaway w/ ice cold Negro Modelos and killer chips and salsa for the post-ride BS session.
  Singletrack=80% Dirt Road=10% Paved Path=10%
  J a 27 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Specialized Stumpjumper from Del Mar

  Posted:03/01/1999

• Trail UpdateThe Dorthy Ride-The only trail that takes you where you REALLY need to go.
  Singletrack=95% Paved Path=100% Truck Trail=5%
  Dorthy a Downhiller riding a Giant Butte from San Diego URL: The Dorthy Ride

  Posted:06/11/1998

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-The lake has never been so nice! The recent rains have made it some soft dirt, and mostly mud/hard packed sand (just how I like it!) its really great! The little stream is slightly deeper and some assholes tend to think its funny to shove rocks in the middle of it (damn punks) so watch out, nothing is quite as imbarassing as ruining your big splash with a mud-filled faceplant. Expect lots of people walking their dogs and such on the weekends so I'd reccomend you (cough, cough) suddenly become ill and unable to go to work/school ;-) The upper trials tend to get rutted out, but its in general a great place, the best area is over towards Hernandez Hideaway, you'll know it when you see it. Happy trails.
  -Gus
  "I'd rather killmyself on my bike than ride a huffy."
  -The Aardvark Cycles Guys
  Singletrack=80% Dirt Road=9% Paved Path=1%
  Gustavo Huber a 14 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant Carbonfiber Cadex CFM 4 with Judys from Scripps Ranch, San Diego

  Posted:05/11/1998

• Trail UpdateTop Of Hodges-Park at the park and ride off the 15 and Via Rancho Pkwy. Follow the path until you pass the creek and go up the short uphill. There you will see a trail going back the way you came but uphill about 30 feet. follow this trail all the way around the back side of the mountain and stay left. There you will come to a hike and bike to the top of the mountain. The trail is mostly singletrack and with the rain it has become a little rutted. The way up is a hike and bike but once your there look out for the mail box and leave a message for everyone to see. The way down is steep at times and can be a little technical. The whole ride can be finished in just a couple of hours and is a great ride in the middle of Escondido if you dont have all day.
  Singletrack=80% Dirt Road=15% Paved Path=5%
  John a 26 year old Downhiller riding a GT LTS-1 w/ Marzocci Z1 Bombers from Escondido, CA

  Posted:04/22/1998

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-There are two areas of Lake Hodges that are generally unfamiliar to all but the local riders. The first area is called "The telephone lines". This is an access road for the telephone company to repair the high power lines. This road is very hilly, unlevel and varying in condition. I would recommend this to those individuals who like to hill climb and fast down hills.
  Second area is the lake trail. To locate this area, ride to the south side of lake Hodges down and across to the water fall, follow the main trail to the lake and bear to the right. Once on this trail, you are single tracking around the lake. This is an advance trail, with low overheads, steep hills and challenging terrian. I have never made the trip to the overside of the lake from this trail, once up on the steep side of the hills it becomes very advance and I have yet allowed enough time to traverse this area. I am planning on an all day and will let you know the outcome.
  Singletrack=100% Dirt Road=100%

  Posted:12/30/1997

• Trail Update<a Href="http://www.gsinteractive.com/sdbiking/hodges/hodges.-
  Greg Shorts

  Posted:11/29/1997

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-Don't go in the middle of the day in the middle of summer, Escondido can get hot!! Go to where the fishermen park, ride the trail to the I-15 bridge. Go left, up the hill, to the upper trail. There is some single-track up there. You'll never find it from that description, though.
  SandBag a 26 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Cannondale v500 from Escondido

  Posted:07/08/1997

• Trail UpdateBernardo Mountain-The begining of the trail is packed with other bikers, horses, and, walkers. After you get about a half a mile down the trail the traffic begins to thin out. This is a great trail for any experience rider. There are from Begining to Intermediate trails and a little bit of advanced if you want to try to scale Mount Bernardo. It takes many, many weekends to find and ride all the trails.
  Singletrack=70% Dirt Road=15% Paved Path=5% Truck Trail=10%
  Rich a 15 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Fugitive from Esc, Ca

  Posted:07/08/1997

• Trail UpdateLake Hodges-Tends to be crowded with hikers and joggers. You can ride to the lake and buy a beverage at the bait store when its open.
  Single Track 5%, Dirt Road 85%, Paved Path 5%, Truck Road 10%
  A weekend warrior from Escondido

  Posted:07/08/1997