Nestled in Solana Beach, Annie’s Canyon Trail is a hidden gem full of beauty and history. Its story began in 2015 when a generous donation by Annie, a devoted supporter of the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy, led to the acquisition of this unique land. Volunteers came together to restore the area, removing graffiti and constructing a trail that officially opened in 2016. Since then, Annie’s Canyon Trail has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, offering awe-inspiring natural beauty and engaging activities.
The trail spans approximately 2.2 miles and is considered moderately difficult. It typically takes about an hour to complete, making it an excellent option for a short yet fulfilling outdoor excursion. Starting at the Solana Hills Trailhead, located at 450 Solana Hills Drive, Solana Beach, CA 92075 (33.000250, -117.258342), adventurers will encounter an elevation gain of 426 feet. Few notes when you arrive: certain portions of the trail are dog-friendly and it’s important to note that there are no restrooms at the trailhead or along the trail. Luckily, accessing this beautiful trail is completely free, making it an accessible option for everyone.
One of the highlights of Annie’s Canyon Trail is the stunning views it offers of the San Elijo Lagoon and Cardiff. The trail winds through picturesque landscapes, blending vibrant coastal vegetation with the serene beauty of the lagoon. These panoramic views are perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to pause, take in the scenery.
A unique feature of this trail is the Mushroom Caves, a name affectionately given by locals to the narrow passages within the trail. Accessible by ladders, these sandstone slot canyons add a sense of adventure to any hike. They invite visitors to squeeze through the tight pathways, climb wooden ladders, and marvel at the spectacular rock formations as they make their way to the top. It’s an exciting and memorable aspect of the Annie’s Canyon experience for those willing to take on the challenge.
Navigating Annie’s Canyon Trail is simple, thanks to its thoughtful design. The trail is well-maintained and includes clear signs and directional arrows to guide hikers through its twists and turns. This organization ensures a smooth and enjoyable hike, even for those visiting for the first time. Now, let’s jump into the navigation of trail from start to finish using the guide below!
Annie’s Canyon Trail Directions
Please note: you need to use the directions at the trail. This is just to prepare you for what you might encounter. Please remember to use the trail guides / signs at the trail and use caution!
Start of the Trail
- Begin at the gate at the end of the street. Signs at the gate will confirm you’re in the right place.
- Follow the wide dirt trail, climbing and descending three progressively steeper hills. Be cautious as slopes can be slippery.
- After the final hill, the trail runs parallel to I-5 and leads to the base.
Finding Annie’s Canyon Trail
- At the base of the last hill, look for a small sign on the left marking Annie’s Canyon Trail. Turn left here.
- Walk through a shaded, forested section. During Spring, wildflowers line the trail, but watch out for poison oak.
- Keep following signs as the trail brings views of the San Elijo Lagoon and leads to a large information kiosk with a wooden sign for Annie’s Canyon.
Reaching the Slot Canyon
- At the start of the loop, go right to enter the slot canyon or left for lagoon views via switchbacks.
- The slot canyon route is challenging but manageable—take your time and small steps. Note the canyon is one-way (upwards).
Inside the Slot Canyon
- Follow the narrow trail. It begins wide but progressively narrows.
- At a split, head left for a short detour to the Mushroom Cave or continue straight to proceed upwards.
- After the cave, encounter the narrowest part of the canyon where you’ll need to move sideways.
- Next, climb a steep metal ladder (challenging for kids or dogs). After the ladder, you’ll reach the top and the end of the canyon.
The View from the Top
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Elijo Lagoon at the top.
- Descend using the switchbacks. This connects back to the information kiosk.
End of the Trail
- From the kiosk, either retrace your original route or turn left to make it a loop, adding an additional 0.7 miles to the hike.
Other Popular Hikes:
- Coastal Rail Trail
- Gemma Parks Trail