You’ll never run out of spots to hike in our amazing city of San Diego, and Annie’s Canyon Trail is a newer addition for a truly unique experience. Located in the San Elijo Lagoon Reserve, this area was once known as the “mushroom caves” and was closed to the public. Of course that didn’t stop vandals from going in there and hanging out late at night. Recently, thanks to a donor by the name of “Annie” and a lot of work, this amazing slot canyon is now open for exploring and it’s a family’s dream!
When to go: Annie’s Canyon is a great experience no matter what time of year. Avoid it for the first few days after a good rainfall as the Canyon closes until it dries out. So if you see rainy weather in the forecast, be sure to visit Annie’s Canyon before the rain hits!
What to wear: Wear some sturdy shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. You’ll be rubbing against the slot canyon and it will leave a very washable debris on you. Sunscreen is always a must and don’t take anything bulky (big handbags or backpacks).
What else you should know: Climbing through the slot canyon is not too physically challenging. Those who are claustrophobic or on the larger side may have difficulty. No worries though, as those who are up for the slot canyon climb can enter to the right, and the others (including dogs who are not allowed to go through the slot canyon) can enter and climb up the stairs on the left, and everyone can meet at the viewing point up top. And, as with so much of San Diego, this incredible natural wonder is completely FREE!
How to get there: Annie’s Canyon trail is in the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. Take the Lomas Santa Fe exit off the 5 freeway and head West. Turn right at the traffic light on Rios, and take that all the way to end. When you hit the cul de sac, you are there! It’s a very easy .5 mile stroll to the trailhead.
Once you arrive at the trailhead it’s very obvious. Head right for the climb through the slot canyon! Those who don’t want to climb through the slot canyon, you can head left and meet your party at the viewing point up top.
As you enter the slot canyon you’ll notice the temperature dramatically drop! You’ll see quite a few carvings they couldn’t clean up from when the trail was closed. Please please please do not be tempted to carve anything into the slot canyon – it’s very frowned upon.
My brother visited us from New York City and declared he wanted to be active in his visit to San Diego. So here he is at the start of the canyon, ready to explore with us!
Our kids absolutely love it here! The first time we explored it here last year they went up the slot canyons 3 times. It doesn’t take long to go through it, maybe 15 minutes. Definitely some tight fit squeezes, but it’s super fun! There’s even a neat little cave to explore.
The kids like to beat us to the top and look down on us. When you get to the top you are greeted with a sense of accomplishment and some glorious views of the San Elijo Ecological Reserve.
Once you are done enjoying the views, you can walk down the stairs which brings you back to the start of the trailhead. If your kids are like mine, they’ll ask to do it again…and again.
You can then return back, enjoying the beauty of the lagoon as you walk back (highly recommend taking one of the trail spin offs that get you closer to the water). My boy is obsessed with bodies of water…look closely as he is and you will see some fish.
We hope you check this out sometime, it’s definitely a unique experience!
