To wrap up the year, hikers can try out a new trail overlooking a restored wetland that opened at the San Dieguito River Lagoon this fall.
The Tidal Trail makes for an easy 2-mile out-and-back hike in Del Mar and is part of the San Dieguito River Park. Park officials announced the new trail in October, along with the completion of an 84-acre wetland restoration project. The area includes a mix of tidal salt marsh, brackish wetlands, saltwater, freshwater and wildlife habitats.
The trail runs parallel to El Camino Real, a busy thoroughfare, but the sound of traffic isn’t too noticeable. Instead, I was focused on the scenic wetlands and the sounds of birds and frogs living within.
The Tidal Trail can be accessed from the Dust Devil Nature Trail Staging Area. After hiking the new trail, I lengthened my hike with sections of the Dust Devil Nature Trail, so my total route was about 3.3 miles.
This hike would be a great option for large groups and families during the holiday season, since it was easy to meander with plenty of unique plants and animals to point out on the journey.
To reach the trail, park in the lot at the staging area, which is located on El Camino Real, off the Via de La Valle exit on Interstate 5.
Start hiking on the Dust Devil Nature Trail from the trailhead at the northeast corner of the lot, where there is an information kiosk and a trail map. Walk about 0.2 miles before reaching a sign for the Tidal Trail, heading north.
The trail is lined with freshly installed wooden fencing and recently planted native species. I also spotted a few egrets stepping with their long legs through the shallow lagoon.
After walking for about 1.2 miles, hikers will turn around and retrace their steps back to the Dust Devil Nature Trail. Once there, instead of directly returning to the parking lot, I headed west along the trail, which turned into a gravel road.
At 2.5 miles, I reached another trail, marked with a sign for “wildlife viewing,” that went southwest for a 0.2-mile loop. I was glad to get the extra mileage, but the sound of the freeway was too loud for my taste on this section of the trail.
From here, I made my final walk back to the parking lot. Keep in mind that both the Tidal Trail and Dust Devil Nature Trail are entirely exposed to the sun, so bring at least a hat on a sunny winter day.
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