Sweetwater River in Rancho San Diego

We'll be hiking the Sweetwater River Trail, starting near a historic 1929 bridge that used to carry California Highway 94 over the river. We'll go downstream along the more scenic south side until we've gone far enough. Then on the way back we can cross over to return on the north side of the river. Finally, we will cross the old bridge to the starting point. The total distance will be about five miles. The trails are mostly level, but there are a few rough hilly spots.

We've done this hike before. For details, including photographs, see
2017: https://www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/238544584/
2020: https://www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/268968062/

Leashed dogs are allowed. There are no rest rooms at the trailhead or along the trails.

THERE IS A NEW TRAILHEAD PARKING LOT ON THE north side of the old bridge, at 2806 Millar Ranch Rd. near Highway 94 (N 32 43.842 W 116 56.323). We'll meet there at 9:00 AM and set out at 9:15 AM.

Overflow parking is available in the old parking lot just off Singer Lane and at the Rancho San Diego Towne Center shopping center on the other side of Highway 94. I don't recommend parking along the highway. No parking on Millar Ranch Rd.

SUGGESTED ROUTE FROM SAN DIEGO: Take Highway 94 east to Jamacha Junction, where it turns right to follow Campo Road. Turn right there and go across the Sweetwater River (on the new bridge), turn right into Millar Ranch Rd. and then right into the new parking lot.

Check your favorite weather page on the Internet. (I like http://www.weather.com .) Wear good hiking shoes and layered clothing, take water, and use sun protection. Take a camera if you wish. Call or send E-mail if you have questions. No lunch stop is planned, but you may want to take a snack.

CONTACT: Philip Erdelsky cell 619-866-8512 e-mail: pje@efgh.com. Cell phone service is available in this area, although there may be a few dead spots.

On our previous hike, some hikers chose to cross the river at a very wet crossing (pictured in the 2017 hiker photos) before heading back. We will go as far as this crossing. I checked this crossing a few weeks ago, and it is still very wet, so I don't plan to cross it. We will use another crossing with a good, sturdy bridge. If you want to use the wet crossing, bring your galoshes or plan to get your feet wet. You will also be on your own on the return trip, but the road along the north side of the river is very easy to follow.

COVID-19: As usual, bring a face mask and wear it as required. According to the latest CDC decree, fully vaccinated people don't have to wear a face mask outdoors except in crowds.

Remember, we will meet in the NEW PARKING AREA on Millar Ranch. Rd. If you park in the old area, walk cross the old bridge (pictured above) to reach the new parking area.