Visit the park's website for closures specific to Santa Rosa Island. Skunk Point is closed March 1 - September 15 for nesting sea birds. Pinnipeds haul out along the shores at times; please do not disturb these animals and keep a safe distance away.
Runner Notes
Steep beginning and end to this trail might be challenging, but the middle is lovely for runners.
Description
From the Coastal Road, start at the eastern-most portion of this trail. The trail slopes steeply upward. In short order, you'll come to the grove of Torrey Pines. These are the rarest native pines in the United States - with a sister population in La Jolla, CA.
After pausing to admire the pines, continue up until you reach the 'top'. You'll work your way the ridge along with the grove to your right and fields to your left. Neat views of a box canyon along with Torrey Pine Road can be had from this vantage point, but the two trails do not officially connect.
The singletrack trail continues on through mixed manzanita and oak groves. Look for the manzanita leaf gall evidenced by swollen red leaf edges. Once through the grove, you'll descend steeply on a few switchbacks. Look for wildflowers along the way. At the bottom, you rejoin the Coastal Road once again.
Flora & Fauna
The rare Torrey Pines are the highlight. The mixed oak/manzanita groves provide welcome shade and shelter from windy afternoons. Wildflowers in spring will add to the gorgeous views of Bechers Bay.
Continue with onX Maps
Sign in with Facebook
Particularly Special Place
Intermediate
Unknown
0 Comments