Lake Calavera Hiking Trail — Attraction in Carlsbad

Calavera Hills hiking trail is an absolute gem tucked away in Carlsbad - the entrance is just below the middle school. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a casual stroll with great views, this trail delivers. The main loop around the ancient volcanic plug—Mount Calavera—is both scenic and accessible. The climb to the top is short but satisfying, offering panoramic views of the ocean to the west and rolling hills to the east. You truly feel like you’re getting a slice of SoCal nature without having to drive far.

What sets this trail apart is the variety—lava rock formations, serene wetlands, shady eucalyptus groves, and open ridgelines all in one compact hike. It’s the kind of place where every turn introduces a new setting. Great for kids, dogs, runners, mountain bikers, and casual walkers alike.

Sunrises here are peaceful, and the sunsets are spectacular—especially from the summit. The trail is well-maintained, with clear signage and multiple paths that let you mix up your route. You’ll often spot hawks, rabbits, and the occasional coyote.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting North County San Diego, Calavera Hills is one of the best-kept secrets around. A really really special hidden gem.

Bikers, dogs, horses...

Grown up next to it all my life. Love it for views and varied terrain. Lots of intertwining trails. Good for beginners since your never more than a few miles from the car. Not much in the way of water and bathrooms other than the trail head. But again your never too far from the car. Often I mountain bike here and the single tracks are everywhere but again everything is not long, it's all how you make your loops. Tame fire road to some decent technical riding, it's all here. Eventually this will be closed to bikes im sure as it is nature preserve but the boundaries are very loosly endorsed. Leash laws for dogs are about the only thing enforced with tickets. So unleash the dog once your off the beaten path and leash em up when you see people. Losing a star because of the ecological boundaries they don't seem to have reason other than to break up MTB trails in spots to eventually push them out...

I was looking for a nice, natural bicycle path that would help take me from Vista toward the coast. The oak riparian park trail is wonderful, but 90% of the trails at Lake Calavera are for hiking or true mountain biking. I can ride from Oak Riparian park past the dam and either exit on Tamarak or head down to Sage Creek High School (College Blvd & Cannon). Every other trail that I have tried has required more technical riding than I am comfortable with. Therefore, if you are a hiker or a skilled mountain biker, this area is great! However, if you are looking for a casual bike ride, there are only 2 trails...