Luelf Pond Open Space Preserve is a small but picturesque spot situated adjacent to a residential area in Ramona. There’s only a single trail, but lush oak trees and a steep climb leading to some sweeping vistas make it a worthwhile trip.
We decided to check out Luelf Pond Preserve after hiking Dos Picos County Park since they are almost right next to each other and both are short hikes. Upon arriving at the preserve, we found Luelf Pond across the street from the entrance. It was currently a dry depression in the ground.
We crossed the road and set off down the trail. We found a kiosk with a map and information a short distance beyond the entrance.
There were beautiful, tall oak trees surrounding the trail.
Around .33 mile there was a “Y” junction. The left fork led a short distance to a locked gate – the boundary of the Canada de San Vicente Ecological Reserve which is currently not open to the public. So we took the right fork, heading uphill.
We quickly left the cover of the oak trees and began to ascend a steep, chaparral covered hillside.
The grade lessened after about a tenth of a mile, and we had a chance to catch our breath.
Our respite didn’t last long however. The trail once again got steep, and the further we went the rockier and more overgrown it became.
The climbing was totally worth it though, as we soon had fantastic views.
At .6 miles we reached the end of the the Preserve. A metal fence and numerous private property signs marked the end of the trail.
To the right was a nice patch of bare granite where we could sit down to have a snack and enjoy the views.
After our break, we turned around to head back the way we had come.
Directions:
Take Highway 67 north and turn right onto Dye Road (just before downtown Ramona). After approximately 1 mile, turn right onto Southern Oak Road. Follow Southern Oak Road for approximately 1 mile, then turn right onto Willow Oak Drive and park at the end of the street. Follow Duck Pond Lane for approximately .2 miles to the Luelf Pond entrance on your left. map
| Total Distance: | 1.2 miles |
| Difficulty: | Easy – Moderate |
| Total Ascent: | 315 feet |
| Dog Friendly?: | Leashed dogs allowed |
| Bike Friendly?: | Bikes allowed |
| Facilities: | None |
| Fees/Permits: | None |
For more information, visit:
County of San Diego Parks and Recreation – Luelf Pond County Preserve
View route or download GPX from CalTopo
