I was at the San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek trail for my husband’s mountain bike race. With 600 bikers, I wasn’t really sure I would have time to run or hike on the trails, but I found a pocket of about 2 hours where the bikers were all out and the trail was empty. I’m not afraid of mountain bikers, but out of a respect for the race, I didn’t want to get in there way.
We parked in the San Pasqual Staging Area off Highway 78 to the Ysabel Creek Staging Area. This eastern portion represents the end of a scenic 22-mile stretch, with hopes that one day, it will extend further east to connect with the Santa Ysabel truck trail near Boden Canyon.
San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek trailhead address: 16414 Ysabel Creek Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek Trail Quick Facts:
- Strava
- Elevation: 400
- 361 Futura Shoe
- Mortal Hydration
My Experience at the San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek trail:
The San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek trailhead starts through a shady eucalyptus grove. Interestingly, these trees aren’t native to San Diego. The trail begins following a wooden fence. I was excited because the bikers were on the other side of the fence, but about half a mile in, they all merged onto the single-track trail.
Around that point, the trail veered left, moving away from Ysabel Creek. With an orange grove on one side and a vast turf farm on the other, the trail was bordered by fences, creating an enclosed path. We continued along the fence until around mile one. Here, you pass through a fenced-off area and then make a right to head up a narrower dirt trail.
The trail follows Bandy Canyon Road, which remained mostly quiet, allowing us to enjoy views of open fields stretching southward. At one point, you find yourself briefly on the side of the road and might wonder, “Is this the trail?” Yes, it is!
On the way back, I sadly witnessed an ambulance passing by for a rider who had fallen during the event. Around 1.5 miles in, you pass a unique sight—a non-operational dairy building. They make it very clear there are no restrooms there, LOL. Speaking of no restrooms, there are very few places to hide if you need to go, so keep that in mind. I’d definitely recommend bringing water and using the bathroom beforehand.
Around the second mile of the San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek, you cross a charming wooden bridge over a dry creek bed. You’ll also see the entrance to The Ranch at Bandy Canyon, which hosts weddings.
Beyond the bridge, the trail curves right, roughly following the creek. This is one of my favorite parts because, in the distance, you can see the San Diego Safari and the vast open fields in front. At about 2.9 miles, you reach the staging area. It offers plenty of great views, but from here, you’ll continue upward for Raptor Ridge.
Raptor Ridge adds another two miles, which are more challenging. Compared to Raptor Ridge from the opposite direction, this route is steeper but lacks switchbacks. I alternated between running and jogging, just going at my own pace.
I reached Raptor Ridge at about 5.1 miles, took in the views, and headed back. I was in a bit of a time crunch, hoping to beat the bikers back, and I did…barely. I arrived just five minutes before the first bikers returned. I’m still undecided about which part of the San Pasqual area I prefer; both sections are unique and beautiful.
This trail would also make for a nice walk if you’ve been to the San Diego Safari and are looking for something to do afterward. Keep in mind, it’s a shared path, and you’ll see plenty of mountain bikers.
You can see more hikes and trail runs here.
Questions for you:
Have you been on the San Pasqual to Ysabel Creek trail?
What is your favorite hike?