Cuyamaca State Park Loop

The Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Loop is a 31.3-mile route located about 40 miles east of San Diego, California. The route uses singletrack and dirt road trails, including stretches of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). As it traverses through pine forests and oak woodlands within Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, it passes by several primitive campsites and campgrounds. With a minimal elevation gain, this loop could be managed by people with a wide range of endurance levels and is rated as easy to moderate. There are sections of the route that pass through popular recreation areas, but there are also quiet wilderness areas where you can find solitude. The trip can be completed in one day, but is best done overnight, over the course of approximately two to three days. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is a California state park located in the Cuyamaca and Laguna Mountains. Located on 26,000 acres, the park is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The park offers camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and backpacking opportunities. It has peaceful meadows, creeks and streams, as well as more than 100 miles of trails. In addition to providing a great overview of the area, this loop crosses several dirt roads and trails, which allows you to adjust the distance according to your preferences. VEGETATION AND WILDLIFETrees found in the area include oaks, willows, alders, sycamores, white fir, sugar pine, ponderosa pine, and Jeffrey pine. Some of the animals that inhabit this area include gray foxes, badgers, bobcats, mountain lions, frogs, and snakes, including rattlesnakes. CAMPGROUNDSThe park offers primitive and backcountry camping as well as campgrounds for families and groups. Campground campsites cost $40 per night and require advance reservations from April to October. Reservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCalifornia Department of Parks & Recreation: https://www.parks.ca.gov/667.