Hodges Overlook Trail

Lake Hodges Overlook Trail is nestled inside the 783 acre Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. If your pup needs a day out in nature, this is the place to be. They can fill their lungs with fresh air and enjoy some puptacular views. Best of all, they can hang out by your side!

There are a couple ways to access the Lake Hodges Overlook Trail. A maintenance road takes you to the trailhead. Another pupular route is to take the Way Up Trail. Please note that this way adds another three miles per round trip. Once you make it to the actual trailhead, start your journey to the woofderful overlook. Shortly into your trek, you will come to a junction for Witch Trail, but stay left for Lake Hodges Overlook. The trail winds through the brush and has some incline, but nothing too serious. While hiking, you and your pup can enjoy lovely views of Olivenhain Reservoir.

Once you make it to the overlook, take a seat on one of the covered benches and gaze out at the surrounding land. This is a great place to paws for a snack and water break. Don’t forget to bring a biscuit or two for your furry hiking partner. If your pup isn’t ready to quit, follow the Lake Hodges Overlook Loop. It adds some mileage and will bring you right back to the overlook.

The Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve opens at 8:00 a.m. closes about 30 minutes before sunset, so be sure to check the main entrance signs for exact closing times. Once the gates close, any remaining cars are subject to towing. Dogs and people must stay on the trails. As always, be sure to have plenty of water for both you and your fur baby, and don’t forget the clean up bags. 

A puptastic day on the Lake Hodges Overlook Trail will be sure to make your pup’s tail wag!