RANCHO CARRILLO TRAILS

The entire trail length is approximately 4 miles and is divided by Melrose Drive with 2 closed loop routes; one on each side of Melrose. The trail to the east of Melrose connects to the San Marcos trail system in the open space corridor at Carlsbad's eastern border. The trail west of Melrose will connect with the future trails of Bressi Ranch, Villages of La Costa, and Alga Norte Park. The trail is unpaved with gentle slopes.

Vegetation in the open space includes riparian woodland, freshwater marsh, baccharis scrub, and non-native grasslands. A seasonal creek within the drainage area of the open space corridor supports nesting habitat and protective cover from predators. The majority of wildlife in this habitat are small, commonly occurring mammals, reptiles, and bird species, including the California Gnatcatcher.

Directions

I -5 to Palomar Airport Rd. exit.
Palomar Airport Rd. east to Melrose.
Right on Melrose. Follow Melrose south to Poinsettia Lane.
Right on Poinsettia Lane, continue west to stop sign, (Carrillo Elementary School will be on your left).
Left into Carrillo Elementary School parking lot drive then immediately on the right is paved parking lot at trail head.

• Trail Maps

Rancho Carrillo Trail Head

Bridge on the Rancho Carrillo Trail