Two hikes to enjoy this holiday season

As we move into the winter holiday season, many families look for simple ways to spend time outdoors. With 67 miles of trails in Carlsbad, here are two options you may want to explore.

Batiquitos Lagoon North Bluff Trail
This easy 0.7-mile trail offers views of the lagoon wetlands, coastal bluffs and Ponto Beach. It’s a short, family-friendly option where you can watch for local birds and other wildlife. A bench along the trail provides a quiet spot to take in the scenery.

The trail includes both paved and unpaved sections, making it accessible for a wide range of walkers. Its location along the bluff provides clear, open views, even on cooler winter days.

Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park Trail
For those looking for a more challenging outing, this one-mile unpaved trail recently received improvements during a volunteer event in October. It winds through a natural area with posted wildlife photos to help you identify what you see along the way. The western entrance is wide and accessible, while the eastern side includes rolling terrain.

This route is a good option for those wanting a workout or a more rugged trail experience. Its changing grades offer variety without being overly strenuous.

If you’d like to find a different trail that suits your plans, the city’s website and GoHike Carlsbad app provide maps and descriptions of all local trails.