Bernardo Mountain Summit

Bernardo Bay Natural Area to the Bernardo Mountain Summit and return.

Length: 6.6 miles

Rated: Moderate to moderately difficult

Type: Out and back

Featuring: The David Krietzer Lake Hodges Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge, Lake Hodges, and from the summit 360 degree views of the area

Elevation: 420' to 1,120' and return to 420'

Users: Hike, equestrian (some restrictions), bicycle

This hike is not for everyone to finish, but is certainly one that everyone can begin. Parking is at the Bernardo Bay Natural Area staging area. The first 2/5 of the hike is relatively level. Hikers will cross the "ribbon bridge" and then will travel west to Felicita Creek. Most likely a very minor "water crossing" will be experienced at Felicita Creek with boulders already placed as a foot path (if needed).

A few hundred yards after crossing Felicita Creek, hikers will turn right off of the Lake Hodges North Shore Trail onto the trail to the Bernardo Mountain Summit. The hike to the summit is a relatively constant grade - usually a single track. There will be little shade, no water, no services, and no toilets. Hikers can turn back when they feel they have 'gone half way'.

The Bernardo Mountain summit is extremely rewarding with 360 degree views that include Escondido, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Del Dios, the San Pasqual Valley, Lake Hodges, Mexico, the Pacific Ocean, and the Palomar Mountain range.