You have to be patient with this hike. The initial trek in from the parking area is worst part of the hike. Once you get to the valley then there are several beautiful trails to explore.
We are not REAL hikers but always enjoy our trips to Daley Ranch to hike the wide trails there. The Ramona lilac is in blossom on the hills at this time of the year, giving a lavender-blue tinge everywhere. There is a box at the trail entrance with maps, but the suggested price is $2, so we didn't take one. When we later found that we needed one, other hikers were happy to give us directions. Regular sneakers are not good enough for the traction needed on the steep, sandy slopes, so make sure that you have a good hking shoe!
We were spending the weekend in Escondido and the weather was beautiful so we headed here for an afternoon hike. We took an easy hike to the ranch house that was about 2.2 miles I think round trip. It starts off pretty step levels off a bit then down the back side. There are many trails to take in the area and if we had more time we certainly would explore more of them.
This ranch is located about 90 miles south of LA, arrive early on weekends to get a spot in the free lot. Just a short walk from trailhead, restrooms available at Dixon Lake. This is a popular hiking area that's dog friendly and shares trail with mountain bikers and horses. Tip: if you stay off single track trails, you won't run into as many bikes. Very little shade, need water, hat, sunscreen because it does get warm, and summer even hotter! Many trails, but decided 5-6 miles would be about right. Started counter-clockwise from Sage trail which takes you past the Old Water Tank. For a better workout, continue on to Stanley Peak. Once through the meadow, the elevation gain makes a noticeable appearance. At the top, check out view and don't forget to sign the register. There's a few ponds before arriving at the Ranch House where you'll find porta potties, benches, and shade! From there, it's downhill to the parking lot.A nice surprise, large jugs of water on the trail for you and/or your dog. Not to mention the friendly ranch staff driving around in a truck (w/water) making sure everyone stayed hydrated....a nice perk for hikers!Summary: a nicely maintained trail and a good place to get your steps, so go for the peak!
My parents own a house near Daley, The best views Westward across the Escondido Valley can be seen from the high points of the trails around Daley. Take a bike or hike through. There's not a lot of water in the region so Lake Dixon just at the foot of these trails is a nice view in the midst of the dusty trails. Don't forget to go on a weekday when parking is free inside Dixon Lake and outside as well.
We hiked there some time ago. It is wild and scenic and worth a trip.We were led by a docent, who did a great job.
Many miles of trails most with little elevation gain. You can get a climb if you do the trail that takes you up to Tom's Peak. Cool Ranch House and Historic area. Easy to get to off of the 15 freeway. A little hot to hike during the months of June-September but the rest of the year it's a real treat.
This is a great place to go with your horse! The trails are good and have differing degrees of difficulty. Beautiful, especially in the spring! There are mountain bikers but most are very considerate about not spooking your horse!
My dogs and i love this place it is so nice to walk in nature, one of those places to go and take a relaxing walk, you feel out of the city, I love the peace in this place.
If you're looking for a calm stroll through beautiful So Cal scenery or an invigorating Hike up a steep hill, maybe a mountain bike ride through the back hills. This is the place to do it. They have clearly marked trails for every level of outdoors person.