Once slated for a large housing development, Daley Ranch was set aside for conservation and recreation in 1997, and has since become a favorite spot for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. With over 20 miles of trails, there are lots of options for hikes of varying lengths and difficulties. The Jack Creek Meadow Loop travels the paved Ranch House Road to the historic Daley Ranch House, then makes a loop around the Jack Creek Meadow through a mix of non-native grasslands and riparian oak woodland. Continue reading Jack Creek Meadow Loop (Daley Ranch)
Category Archives: Daley Ranch
Boulder Loop Trail (Daley Ranch)
Once threatened by development, Daley Ranch is now a 3058 acre habitat conservation area in northeastern Escondido. With over 20 miles of trails to explore, it is a popular spot for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. The Boulder Loop Trail is a scenic hike in the southwestern portion of the property with some decent hills to conquer. Continue reading Boulder Loop Trail (Daley Ranch)
Stanley Peak (Daley Ranch)
It had been a long time since we’d made it up to Daley Ranch for some hiking, and were feeling like we were long overdue for another visit. The weather hadn’t been particularly conducive to peak bagging, especially in Escondido, but we decided to suck it up and make an early start so we could tackle Stanley Peak. The day turned out to be warm, but not unbearably hot, so with an ample supply of water and sunscreen we were adequately prepared for the adventure. Continue reading Stanley Peak (Daley Ranch)
Daley Ranch – Engelmann Oak Loop
Daley Ranch is a 3000 acre preserve in north eastern Escondido. It has over 25 miles of trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and leashed dogs. The preserve contains a variety of habitats including oak woodlands, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grasslands, and riparian areas. It holds several ponds, and sits adjacent to Dixon Lake. You can view a map of the Ranch’s trails here. Continue reading Daley Ranch – Engelmann Oak Loop