Crestridge Ecological Reserve from Visitor Center

4.5 miles 500ft ascent. No hazards.

This is a mostly out-and-back hike through Crestridge Ecological Reserve to a hilltop overlooking Flinn Springs. We last did this hike 11/17/22.
https://www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/289757577

The Earth Discovery Institute manages this reserve and several others. Information about Crestridge is available at their website.

Vegetation types include Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, mixed coast live and Engelmann oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian. Two rare plant species that are known from the Reserve are Lakeside ceanothus and San Diego thornmint. The Reserve includes breeding and feeding habitat for golden eagles, owls, white-tailed kites, Cooper’s hawks and numerous other raptors. In addition, species such as bats, deer, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes occur in the area. Insects include Hermes copper butterfly and Harbison's dun skipper.

We'll meet at the signed entrance at the end of Horsemill Rd. in Crest ( at 9:30 AM. They have a restroom, but it is usually closed.

From San Diego: Take I-8 east and exit at Greenfield Drive. Turn right (south) on Greenfield Drive, turn left on La Cresta Road. Go about three miles uphill and at the top of the hill veer left onto Mountain View Road. Continue about 1.5 miles and turn left on Horsemill Road. Follow Horsemill Road about a half mile to the reserve entrance.

Google Maps: Crestridge Ecological Reserve Visitor Center
Apple Maps: Crestridge Ecological Reserve
GPS: N 32º 49.681' W 116º 51.375'

Wear good hiking shoes, dress in layers, and take sunscreen, water and a snack. Leashed dogs are allowed.

CONTACT: Nick Burke text 858-264-7787
Cell phone service is available in this area, but there may be some dead spots.