Hike Mount Israel Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, CA

Apr 19, 2024 — The Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve was established to preserve the natural beauty and ecological significance of the area, and features 11 miles of trails in Encinitas, California. Among these, the Way Up Trail is particularly popular for its ascent to the high point, Mount Israel. On the official park map the peak is labeled "Elfin Forest Overlook," so the summit's name might be confusing. The trail begins at the main parking area of the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, which is a relatively small lot that can get crowded. After parking, I crossed Escondido Creek on a footbridge and ascended the many switchbacks on singletrack. A bit after a quarter mile I reached a junction with the Botanical Trail. I chose to hike this on my way back later, a worthy side-trip.

I passed the shaded Harmony Grove Overlook which had a viewpoint and shaded bench looking down toward Escondido Creek. The trail continued ascending, though more gradually, until reaching the ridge above. There's a variety of trail options up here, but they're all likely quite similar since the ridgeline is really just a wide chaparral slope. I chose to just stick to the main Ridgeline Road/Trail, which led up toward Mount Israel. I was able to get some views of Lake Hodges and the Olivenhain Reservoir along the way. A spur trail brought me to the summit, where a viewfinder connected to a toposcope helped to identify nearby peaks.

I backtracked, but chose to take a slight detour to enjoy the Botanical Trail. There were fewer hikers on this short trail, and it descended through forest along Escondido Creek before crossing it using large stones rather than a bridge.