Colloquially known as PQ, the preserve has something for every rider and every ability level. For families, trail loop variations, offshoots, and off-bike exploration options, make this trail network San Diego’s best.
Spanning ∼7 mi, the park runs west/east from Sorrento Valley to I-15. With over 14 different habitat zones, highlights include a year-round stream, waterfall, giant California Oaks, stream crossings, sycamore groves, goat and pig petting zoo, and abundant wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see deer, coyotes, and bobcats. And birds. A lot of birds.
Where to Start
There are a couple of good options. I recommend starting at Peñasquitos Creek Park. The initial descent sets the tone for the ride. It’s a nice introduction to the day’s loop and provides the opportunity to get everyone comfortable shifting and climbing on some minor loops before getting on the main trail. However, it’s a heavily trafficked area and can fill up quickly with hikers and cyclists on busy weekend mornings. In the event it’s too crowded, the next best place to park is at PQ’s Ranch House. Importantly, there are no restrooms at Peñasquitos Creek Park; only a port-a-potty. Sometimes. If starting here, you’ll have to ride east ∼1.5 mi to the Ranch House for the first pit stop.
Clockwise for the win
Trail names known to mountain bikers won’t be found on any map. Google isn’t your friend here. Instead, use Trailforks. After the initial descent from PQ Creek Park, get on the main trail, Black Top Swamp, headed east. The party starts.
Dense sycamore and oak groves line the creekside trail. It’s a welcome respite from the heat in the middle of summer. The trail welcomes riders with g-outs, whoop-de-do’s, rollers, and options for very short and punchy climbs. The tight and twisty nature of the trail will get the family laughing. But, watch out! Poison oak is begging to zap the unsuspecting. It’s usually cut back, but nature happens and it grows back with glorious purpose. Like Loki, it wants to kill you, but, actually not. It will take you on an itchy escape though.
This part of the trail dumps off at the Ranch House. After a quick pig and goat pet, because you have to, it’s back on the trail. Take the Ranch House Connector to the Ranch House Crossing where it links up with the South Side Trail.
The Ranch House Crossing is interesting. Before intersecting with the South Side Trail, a decision must be made: attempt to cross Peñasquitos Creek on bike, or take the boring route and walk around? I’m all about boring. Creek depth is 9″ at parts and wet shoes and squishy socks are a guarantee for the remainder of the ride. Also, if you’re a good parent, you’ll encourage an attempt. Discomfort for the remainder of the ride is a sure thing. However, if ever there was a moment to take a picture, this is it.
The waterfall
Once on South Side Trail, flat and slow going with a few rocky and sandy sections, it’s just over 2 mi to Carson’s Crossing. A huge bridge, only 3′ wide, elevates riders above the marshes. While not skinny, shaky riders will find the drop to the swamp and creek on either side thrilling. Another highlight, the bridge is a unique feature among riding options in San Diego.
The crossing spits out riders on the North Side Trail. Head west to the year-round waterfall that cascades over and through volcanic rock. Theft isn’t an issue in the park. Bikes can be left along the wood fence for a nice break and a short hike to the creek. I wouldn’t recommend swimming, but a cool dip of the toes is a welcome relief on warm days. Heck, even on cold ones.
Finishing up
The North Side Trail – eastbound, is a 1.5 mi fire road effort back to the Peñasquitos Creek Park parking lot. Flat until the end, the descent that started the day becomes the final climb. Correct gearing and a healthy dose of enthusiasm get riders to the top. Time for ice cream.
In total, the ride is around 5.5 mi. While relatively straightforward, there are a number of options to add a little more spice, challenge, and distance. Front wheel lifts, small drops, rock dodges, additional creek crossings, and short, punchy climbs can be found with a little more exploration. If so, get the cameras out.
While not long, it’s one of the longer options covered in this series. Get the family out and spend time together building the active lifestyle muscle. You’ll be glad you did.