HIKE IT UP! on “Lake Hodges Overlook” trail: 7:30a - 10:00a. Escondido,CA

About this event

**Lake Hodges Overlook Trail** The Lake Hodges Overlook Trail is a popular hiking trail that crosses into the Del Dios Recreational County Preserve and the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve near Escondido, California. The trail offers panoramic views of Lake Hodges and the Olivenhain Reservoir, as well as the surrounding mountains. It's generally considered a moderately challenging hike. The trail features a mix of rocky terrain, switchbacks, and challenging ascents. The initial ascent of 1.2 miles has a 834’ elevation gain so it is advisable to stretch before starting the hike. Once we finish this initial climb we make our way to the East rim of the Oliverhain Reservoir in route to the Lake Hodges Overlook Loop trail. The loop trail takes us to the Lake Hodges Overlook picnic rest area. Once we rest we will continue onto the loop trail which will return us back to the Lake Hodges Overlook main trail. The last 1.2 miles decent off the mountain can be challenging because of loose gravel so trekking poles are recommended for the decent. Rating: higher end of Moderate Distance: 6.4 miles Terrain: Rocky, Up/Downhill, very steep grades at times Elevation: 1,440’ elevation gain First 1.2 mile has a 834’ elevation gain! Trekking poles for the steep rocky downhills are highly recommended What to bring: Light pack, water, sunscreen, hat, good shoes/boots, lunch or snacks. **Where to Meet us:** The Del Dios Highlands trail parking lot opens at 8am. Since our hike begins at 7:30am, we will be parking at “Del Dios Lot”, which is across the street from the preserve.(See pics). We will then walk across Del Dios Highway and walk into the preserve. We will be meeting at the trailhead iron gate at 7:20a. **How to find us:** We will meet at 7:20am at the iron gate right at the trailhead. Hike starts promptly at 7:30am  **If you wish to bring a guest, please have them join our group and sign up for the event.** Please note the following: KNOW YOUR LIMITS **and be prepared.**…