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    San Luis Rey Bike Trail

    4.3 (60 reviews)

    San Luis Rey Bike Trail Photos

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    Teresa L.

    I loved this trail. It's fun great for all biking levels. I also d Found it to be safe and refreshing. Not too busy so lots of room to ride. Found a beautiful place on the trail to take a rest that was shaded with plenty of trees and beautiful flowers. It was truly a wonderland.

    Map
    Kristin J.

    San Luis Rey trail actually extends further to the east. You can take your horses out on trail. There's not yet a horse trailer parking area. There might be some plans in the future to add a parking lot off the 76. The trail extends down a long little gopher Canyon and runs along the 76 freeway and goes around into the Bonsall hill area.

    Douglas parking lot
    Marcus F.

    One of San Diego's best bike trails, this 10 mile there-and-back bike path is very family-friendly. There are many entry points to this trail, but the recommend starting point would be at Mance Buchanon Park. If a full 10 miles is simply too much, you can also park at the dirt lot off of Douglas, though it's a little sketchy, your round trip will only be 7 miles. The path is mostly flat, unless you take the paths under the various street bridges. Your biggest challenge will be biking toward the beach. You'll get the headwinds which will make it harder to ride. Obviously the ride back gets the benefit of the wind at your back. Things you'll see - Trains - A cool green bridge - Squirrels running right out in front you while you're biking The negative - There are vagrants all around this area. I wouldn't recommend a women biking this trail alone early or late.

    Normally dry river bed has a bit of a current right now. Worth a quick walk to check out.
    Aiko M.

    There's actually two trails along this river: a dirt path, intended for walking, and a raised, paved path, intended for biking. I suggest the bike trail, as it's more visible, has more traffic, and just overall feels safer. I rarely see anybody on the dirt trail... The bike path is about 8 miles long, runs mostly parallel to the 76, and ends at the harbor. It's fun because the trail has distance markings painted on it, I think every 2/10 of a mile. It's mostly flat, with a few turnabouts and a few benches near the underpasses. It's relatively well-maintained; cracks seem to be filled fast. People walk their dogs, ride bikes, skateboard and rollerblade the trail. I can make it to the beach in about an hour and a half walking. It's usually not very scenic..the river bed is pretty dry and full of dying trees. One thing to watch out for are homeless camps in the bushes. I've never been encountered by anyone but people have come out of seemingly nowhere onto the trail. In the summer, I once saw a mountain lion sitting on the trail. It was nearing sunset. Thing had huge paws! I've been using this trail over a decade and I'm always hoping to see one again. Especially because I carry my phone and can snap a picture! There's a huge blind spot between the concrete pillars going under the 5 freeway- the turn is sharp and path gets super narrow. Be careful along this section of the trail. Overall, I highly recommend it. There's Nana's Sweet Shop for ice cream at the end of the trail, the beach, restaurants, restrooms, and Nautical Bean. Pros: - dog-friendly - easy/moderate walk - raised/visible - free parking at major streets Cons: - dog messes - some dark areas - can get crowded; listen for traffic - no bike cops like before

    So many people out this weekend!
    Lori R.

    Really impressed with this bike trail. It's well protected from traffic and very well engineered. It's mostly flat, riding West you get head wind from the beach and riding East the wind is at your back. Choose your direction wisely if you're out of shape. It's kind of hard to find the on and off ramps to the trail, they aren't all marked from Google maps so you need to explore the neighborhood a bit. Once I figure it out it should be easy. From my place, it's about a 30 minute ride to the beach which is pretty amazing. There are a ton of people out so ride courteously and use the correct lanes. There were many riders who were training but I didn't feel like they were running the other riders off the path. Everyone was polite. This is protected enough from traffic so I'll probably use headphones next time! Check this place out!

    Ashley D.

    This is a great trail to do if you're looking for a long stroll. I wouldn't call it a hike because it's paved the entire way. It's just less involved with nature and exploring because it's paved. I did a total of 6 miles while being 5 months pregnant and it was a really easy workout. It's all mostly flat and there's a lot to look at since you're walking along the outskirts of Oceanside. The trail felt unsafe at times as a female walking by myself. People kept coming out of the lower banks onto the trail and there were a lot of homeless people in certain parts. This trail leads you through quite a lot of different parts of Oceanside so you get a handful of nature along the way. There's no shade on any part of the trail so keep that in mind for hot weather!

    View of the beach
    Mirna E.

    A trail that goes to the beach... Yes please!!! We started our bike ride from Mance Buchanon Park. There is plenty of parking and it appears relatively safe compared to the rest of the neighborhood. The trail is relatively flat and paved with the exception of a few ramps to go up and down. As a beginner biker (haven't ridden a bike since I was a kid)... The trail was relatively easy. The trail was windy at times which made it a tad difficult. My hubby and I rode together taking breaks as needed along the way. There are a couple large open spots but most of the time you have to pull off the side to not get in anyone's way. My hubby said the trail was brutal on a mountain bike because it was all flat and paved. I don't know any better as I don't have a comparison. However, yes, your tush will be sore without proper padding. I would know! It was a descent work out 14.4 miles from Mance Buchanon Park and to the beach and back. You'll see painted mileage markers on the trail (look down). We went on a Friday after work and didn't encounter too many people on bikes but more walkers as we approached the park on our way back. I agree with other reviewers. There isn't a whole lot to see as a walker. This is in no way a hike. The trail is more suitable for bikers- specifically those with road bikes. As you pass the river, yes, there was actually water in the river, there will be a turnout to the right which will take you up a "s" shaped ramp. I got off my bike for this one. There was just no way I could make it up such a steep incline as a beginner. Once up the ramp, you'll see the beach. Cross the street and continue to go straight. There is a small entry way into the beach... We didn't get far here as the sand sunk our bikes, lol. It was definitely a nice trail to try out and reward yourself with the beach. It would probably be nice to bike out there and eat at the harbor and bike back. It was tough on the tush for a mountain biker- especially a beginner such as myself. I need some recovery time before I return and definitely proper padding! Otherwise, enjoy the trail!

    Eva L.

    I really love this trail. But, it's more of a "trail". It's a little paved road going down a path. Super awesome to run on & it's nice to make it look like a road because people know which side to be on! Because there's all sorts of people exercising on this stretch - bikers, runners (my husband & I), dog walkers, or just people wanting to walk & get some fresh air. It's a good distance - especially if you just want to enjoy the beauty & awesome weather of oceanside! It's right by my house so it's very convenient when I don't wanna drive all the way to the gym. PS - i'd go when there's sunlight. I've never been here during the early morning darkness or night darkness but i'd reckon that it's pretty weird & sketchy! lol just to be safe.

    Cindy F.

    The San Luis Rey River trail runs right behind my home in the SLR area of Oceanside, and has been a source of recreation, relaxation, meditation, and exercise for everyone in my family for almost eight years now. It's my daily go-to source st any time of the day or night that inspires my creativity, boosts my productivity, releases my negativity, and has provided my "zen" over the years. People have warned me against going out on the trail at night, but if you've got a good flashlight, a decent intent, and have self defense skills (all of which I possess to some degree!), then you're really not in any danger. Sometimes, there are teenagers that hang out down there - and I've come to know some of them on my nightly wanderings. There are also many homeless individuals who live there in the basin when it's not full of water (which has been most of the time during the years we have lived in this neighborhood). I have taken them food and blankets and clothing, because seriously, they're not doing any harm and calling the police on them is not going to do anything but demoralize another human being. They have as much a right to be there as I do, they just stick around a bit longer. :) It is a trail that runs for miles inland down to the beach, and I've taken the entire trail more times than I can count. There's a bike path, you can hike it, and if you're in good enough shape, a run or jog is a good way to build up some cardio. For me, I like to walk at a light stride. I rarely (but sometimes do) take music, just because I like to be aware of my surroundings (especially if I'm alone), but overall, it's much more peaceful to stroll along with one's thoughts and focus on the sounds of nature and the world around you. I am fond of the area around my home, and sometimes still take the trek down to the beach, where I will often pass by others who are very friendly and out either in groups or walks/biking solo. My family has enjoyed group walks down the trail over the years, and it has given us a sense of closeness that I don't often get to have with my older son now that he's an adult...while keeping those ties to my youngest strong in the meantime. It's easy to sit around a TV or computer and wait for the day to end as you watch another video or show, but getting outside in nature with the people you love is invigorating...and it prompts good mental and physical health as well. It's a free perk of living in the area I do, and I am serious when I say that the sunsets and terrain you'll see on your walks are some of the most breathtaking you'll ever know in your life. It's a slice of nature carved through a suburban jungle that offers some much-needed lucidity at times...but overall, provides some of the best free recreational opportunities that this area has to offer. Check it out - there are many places to park if you don't live within walking distance - in my area there is a bridge on Douglas just between El Camino Real and North River Rd., where you can bring picnic supplies, biking gear, hiking gear, or even beachwear if that's where you're planning to end up at the end of your journey (just remember, it's a few miles to get back...save some return energy for that trip! Happy walking, running, biking, and wandering! If you see me out at any time of the day or night, feel free to say hi and let me know you saw me on Yelp (just so I don't think you're a creeper or something...haha!). Hope to see you on the trail!

    Basic bike route.  Keep your eye out for the homeless living along the route in the brush.

    I used the entrance not far from the pier/strand. It's a decent option for cyclists, walkers and runners to avoid cars. Some areas are scenic, other spots are unattractive. Not really any shade, so not recommended on hot days. Riding back to the beach got windy. It appears generally safe, but I did see several large homeless encampments hidden in the brush, a homeless couple standing along the path in one spot and another homeless woman smoking while coming out of the brush alongside the trail, so be aware of your surroundings and at least take some pepper spray and a whistle just in case.

    Biking and Walking Trail
    Bridgette B.

    Ive been coming to this trail on & off for several years now. I've only walked it & haven't gone all the way to the ocean yet. Someday I'll bike it and do that. I start by Mance but perhaps I'll try from Douglas another time. Watch out for nature. Rattle snakes in particular. I only heard them on this visit. This time around I saw mainly birds such as white Herring, Hawks and Hummingbirds. I also saw some caterpillars crossing the road~~and oddly I was chuckling and grateful they crossed before the bikes rolled by. This flat trail is great for walkers, joggers, runners, & pro Bikers in particular. I've seen all sorts of people here from moms with strollers to dads with toddlers in tow. I'm starting to see tents in the bush area below suggesting an increase in homelessness. Be on alert and happy trails to you!

    Stats if you enter where College dead ends into North River Road
    Amanda R.

    So I don't really know where this trail starts out but it extends all the way to the Ocean. I've always entered it at College Blvd. and North River Road. There are 2 paths on both side of the aqueduct/river. If you go on the left side aka "Bike Trail" it is paved. Whereas the right side (closer to North River Road is not paved. So it would be closer to Trail running. I usually just run from this entrance to the Douglas bridge which is 3 miles all together. This would be my 2# pick behind Guajome Park. Besides the scenery you have less chance of running into a snake on this trail. Both sides of the Trail are completely exposed to the sun. So do not go running here in the peak hours of the day unless you are a glutton for punishment. The left side/Bike Trail had way more people on it. So if you like solitary running where you are the only person I would go out onto the trail part. Also there is literally no lighting after it gets dark. So if you are running around 5pm I would run on the Bike trail side next to the new Park they put it. Both sides have built in parking lots.

    Liz J.

    Nice trail I went for a run on earlier. The rain has made some erosion. They have done some updates to the trail to make the divots in the road more bearable. The run was nice. Not flat but lots to see, which was nice. Parking isn't great but its manageable.

    Taking a breather at the Skate Park stop.

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    2 months ago

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    3 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Great trail. Great scenery. Jogged multiple days on this trail! It also was not crowded like other reviews mentioned.

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    8 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Love this trail! Great and fun experience for a family or with some friends! We too our puppy on it and she loved going through the river!!

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    12 years ago

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    7 years ago

    Love this ride! Just with the homeless would move out of the river bed! Really alarms people

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    10 years ago

    The San Luis Rey Bike Trail will be closed from (approximately October 10 - March 31) from Foussat Road to Douglas Drive.

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    8 years ago

    This place looks pretty cool. I took my girlfriend on there and we had a great time beautiful scenery felt really safe.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - San Luis Rey Bike Trail

    How are people about wearing masks when nearby? Visiting Nurses here for the surge, want to go hiking but given the level of nonmasking we see & needing a break from N95s we wear, wejust want to simple mask, but wary where people are lax?

    No mask is required. I don't wear one when I bike but I'm also going 14mph +

    Are dirt bikes allowed?

    No please do not!!! This is a small path and it's bicycles and walkers/runners. Some people ride in the river bed but it's not allowed and a sensitive area. Please go elsewhere for this activity and keep the path safe for the people using it.

    Will be in town for 5 days, Will be staying in Carlsbad. Besides san luis rey trail, any suggestions on some ez/moderate walks/hikes? i've done cowles and some other ones in SD, so looking for some others in the area 15-20m driving?

    San Onofre State Beach has a nice VERY EASY paved trail along coast.

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    Review Highlights - San Luis Rey Bike Trail

    That said, I always really enjoy my rides at San Luis Rey River Trail.

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    Santa Margarita Preserve

    Santa Margarita Preserve

    4.1
    (68 reviews)
    11.4 mi

    Santa Margarita Preserve is a very popular spot for hikers and anyone looking to connect with…read morenature. The preserve has several well-marked, directional trails, which is super helpful in case you get turned around. It does get very busy, and parking is almost always full unless you arrive early or don't mind waiting. The views are beautiful, with lots of flowers along the way. I personally did about 5 miles, but the trails definitely go beyond that. It was a great hike--challenging but enjoyable--and perfect for my dog and me. The trail is dog-friendly, but we did come across horseback riders, so a friendly reminder to be mindful of others on the trail, especially horses, and to keep your dogs under control. Overall, this was an amazing hike and I highly recommend this trail!‍

    Nothing less than five stars for this Fallbrook hike. It's got wildlife, a river system, and it's…read moredog friendly! Note: dogs must be on leash due to horse traffic. I'd consider this to be a mild hike, more like a nature walk. There's multiple river crossings throughout to be explored. We crossed at six, which was easily up to my knees. The stream was cold, refreshing, and completely clear. You can easily spot fish and we were lucky enough to see turtles. I also love that there's a sign at the beginning of the hike that lists/dates recent wildlife sightings. It does get incredibly busy here. Despite visiting on a Wednesday the parking lot was completely filled by 10am. Highly recommend arriving early if you want to snag a spot.

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    Santa Margarita Preserve
    Santa Margarita Preserve
    Tip: Bring Lots of Water! They offer a Trail Map before you start your walk, don't loose it

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    Tip: Bring Lots of Water! They offer a Trail Map before you start your walk, don't loose it
    Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve

    Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve

    4.6
    (233 reviews)
    14.8 mi

    We arrived around 8 AM on a Sunday, and the main lot was already full, but there's an overflow lot…read moreabout 400 feet away where we were able to grab the last spot. The trail itself was pretty quiet. We passed a few people here and there. It's very well maintained, though there aren't any signs or clear directions at certain points, so I'd recommend using AllTrails to stay on track. Also worth noting, there are no trash cans along the route, so plan accordingly. The trail is technically listed as not dog-friendly, but we did see a couple of dogs along the way. We did the 4.5-mile overlook loop. There were a few sections that were a bit steep, but overall it's a fairly easy hike with mostly flat terrain. There's a lot of greenery throughout, and the creek adds a really nice touch. It's a really scenic and peaceful setting. It took us about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. We went on a cloudy day, which ended up being perfect for the hike. Overall, it's a beautiful, well-kept trail and definitely worth checking out.

    What an incredible trail! The mix of flowing water and those scattered rock formations makes every…read morestep feel like a little adventure. Going around 10 in the morning sounds perfect for soaking in the peaceful vibe without running into many people. It's a relatively easy route with plenty of spots to pause for a picnic, making it the perfect way to connect with nature and start the day surrounded by quiet beauty.

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    Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
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    Cougar Ridge Trail

    Cougar Ridge Trail

    4.7
    (3 reviews)
    12.2 mi

    Hidden gem in Daley Ranch…read more... This is a great spot if you don't want to deal with the crowds on the main path. Park in the dirt lot, cross over, go over the metal gate and you're in. You'll see an information board. Be aware...there have been mountain lion sightings here. Really nice views, different paths, dog friendly, some incline.... 5 stars!

    Beautiful Trail. It's got a lot of shade, perfect place to get some exercise without getting beat…read moredown by the sun. When you park, there is a trail off the parking lot... that trail is not the trail head. The trail head is across the dirt road you came in on. The trail head is marked by a metal gate meant to keep vehicles off the trail, and there is an information post about 100 ft in. The trail is easy enough for an off road stroller with inflatable tires to do. I think the trail might be a little too bumpy for any thing with solid tires. The trail does have some hills to climb. My wife and I, along with our 9 and 10 yo had absolutely no problems on this trail. We did see one mountain biker and some evidence of horses. I would definitely come here with either if you have them. Most of the trail has good head room for riders and the trails are wide enough to share with hikers. You're on the outskirts of town, so we saw evidence of large wildlife like paw prints and skat. There is signage warning you of the local animals in the area. Just watch the time of day, have a plan and you should be safe.

    Photos
    Cougar Ridge Trail
    Cougar Ridge Trail
    Cougar Ridge Trail

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    San Luis Rey Bike Trail - hiking - Updated July 2026

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