Oak tree on the Boulder Loop, Daley Ranch
Geology on the Boulder Loop Trail, Daley Ranch
Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Daley Ranch (Escondido)
- Location: 3024 La Honda Drive, Escondido, CA. From I-15, take the El Norte exit and head east for 3.1 miles. Turn left on La Honda and drive a mile to the dirt parking lot.
- Agency: City of Escondido
- Distance: 5 miles
- Elevation gain: 750 feet
- Difficulty Rating: PG
- Suggested time: 2.5 hours
- Best season: September – May
- USGS topo map: Valley Center
- Recommended guidebook: California Hiking
- More information: here
- Rating: 6
Geology, ponds, city views, history – it’s all here at Daley Ranch. The property was purchased by English immigrant Robert Daley in 1869 and remained in his family until 1996, when it was sold to the city of Escondido. As parks located near urban areas go, this one offers a lot of scenic variety and some challenging trails, such as those included in the route described here. This loop might sound involved, but if you print out a map or pick one up at the park, it’s pretty easy to follow.
From the parking lot, take the Ranch House trail, which gets its name for an obvious reason, arriving at the house after a mile. However, you can take a scenic and more isolated detour by taking a hard left on the Boulder Loop trail after passing by Middle Pond. This 2 1/2 mile loop climbs steadily, passing by some interesting geology and taking in nice views of the surrounding area.
After the second junction with the Rock Ridge trail (an option if you want to shorten the hike), the Boulder Loop trail descends, with great views to the east. At the bottom of the hill, take a left and continue on the Ranch House Trail. In half a mile, it arrives at the green ranch house where the Daley family lived.
After checking out the house, return by taking a left on the East Ridge, which passes the other side of Middle Pond. In a mile, take a left on the Creek Crossing trail and return to the parking lot.
If you enjoyed this hike, you can easily extend it by exploring some of the other trails in the back of the park. You can also visit the nearby Dixon Lake Recreational Area.
