Lower Creek Trail

Overview

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.<br><br>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.

Trail Stats

Photos

Santa Ysabel Creek is quite beautiful as it flows full of spring runoff.

Santa Ysabel Creek is quite beautiful as it flows full of spring runoff.

Springtime brings greenery in Santa Ysabel West Preserve.

Springtime brings greenery in Santa Ysabel West Preserve.

Hikers climb away from Santa Ysabel Creek.

Hikers climb away from Santa Ysabel Creek.

Santa Ysabel Open Space becomes a contrast of grey and green shortly after a winter rainstorm.

Santa Ysabel Open Space becomes a contrast of grey and green shortly after a winter rainstorm.

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