Annie’s Canyon Trail

Annie's Canyon Trail is a unique hiking trail that features a sandstone slot canyon with narrow walls and ladders. The trail offers beautiful views of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, a critical migrating waterfowl habitat. The hike is short and easy, but it can be challenging for those with claustrophobia due to the narrow sections of the canyon. The trail is one-way, and visitors can expect to get sandy, so it's recommended to wear casual fitness clothes and sneakers. The trail is popular, so it's best to arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. The area was once underwater, but over time, runoff eroded the sandstone, creating the canyons that exist today. The trail was previously private property, but it was acquired and opened to the public in 2016, thanks to a generous donation from a long-time San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy supporter named Annie