Lopez Canyon Trail

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About Lopez Canyon

Lopez canyon is definitely a choose your own adventure type hike.  The actual Lopez Canyon Trail is around 1 mile out and back, but then there are many connecting trails taking you to so many other fun spots including the Los Penasquitos Waterfall.

I’ve done this hike twice now: once in the spring and once in the summer.  If you are looking for lush greenery all around you, then definitely do this in the springtime.  There are occasional shaded areas but much of the hike is exposed to the elements.

I know I talk about this often, but San Diego is being developed at such alarming rates, that open space like this is truly a gem that must be cherished.  Further north of this trail, thousands of homes have been built within the past decade. Let’s hope this open space will always be spared.

Please note there is a seasonal creek that winds along the pathway with you.  In the summertime it will be completely dry, but after some good rainfall, it will be a lovely addition to your hike.

Also beware of poison oak as it is in abundance out here!

History

The López Canyon preserves an important piece of the region’s natural and cultural history. The historic López House was built in the late 19th century by the López family, who were among the early settlers in the canyon. Constructed from locally made adobe bricks, the home reflects the simple but durable building techniques commonly used throughout Southern California during that period.

The family raised livestock and farmed the surrounding land, relying on the canyon’s seasonal water sources and fertile soils. Although the house has deteriorated over time, there are still tiny remnants of it if you know where to look, including etched signatures in the home’s foundation.