Trail of the Month: Crestridge Ecological Reserve
Illustration by Ashleigh Corrin
Difficulty Level
Easy, great for beginners
Distance
3 miles round-trip
Good to Know
Dog friendly
Stroller friendly
Free parking
Where
Start at the visitor center off Horsemill Road in El Cajon. Follow the Valley View Truck Trail and loop south at around 1.75 miles, or keep going for longer distances.
What to Instagram
Views of the mountains after you emerge from the oak forest.
Why We Love It
This relatively flat path is good for beginner trail runners or those who want to take it easy on their joints. It also makes for an easy family hike, with endless loops of trails in the reserve to make a longer trip.
Where to Refuel
Get scrambles, potato cakes, and French toast at the kitschy diner Cafe 67 (12381 Mapleview Street, Lakeside).
