Best Hiking Trails near Cleveland National Forest

"After taking in some of the best restaurants in Escondido or best brunch spots in Carlsbad, head to Daley Ranch to walk off what you just ate. With over 3,000 miles of conservation area to explore, you can enjoy the natural vegetation, oak woodlands, grasslands, and more. And if you’re interested in some history, there are plenty of old buildings to explore on the property too."

"Daley Ranch was established in 1996 and covers a ground area measuring 3058 acres. The Ranch has been used as a conservation area for protecting and housing various species of animals and plants which are considered endangered in the area. The ranch is also home to a wide range of regional plant species that are not found at other places in the world."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Downtowngal used under CC BY-SA 3.0. A great way to explore true southwestern California, the way you’re supposed to, Daley Ranch has fresh air and rustic ambiance in a gorgeous location. The hiking trails are lovely, offering breathtaking views over Escondido ranch land."

"The park was named after Christopher (Kit) Carson, the famous scout who guided Captain John C. Fremont over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during a government exploration expedition. The City of Escondido acquired the land for its largest regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Address:3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025"

"This hike will take you through unique rock structures, and at the end, you can enjoy the sunset from the beach (a sometimes nude one). Don’t forget to check out the Mushroom House too while you’re there. More: Photo Guide to Hiking the Ho Chi Minh Trail"

"Hosp Grove was founded by a group of investors called The Hosp Eucalyptus Corp in 1908. They planted 219 acres of trees in this Carlsbad grove hoping they could be harvested & sold to the Santa Fe Railroad as railroad ties. Much of the grove has been sold off, but what remains are fun, forested trails with plenty of inclines and twists & turns."

"Tuna Dockside Market is a hidden gem - a pop up fish market on the pier between Seaport Village and the USS Midway, more or less, is a fishing pier where the local fishermen bring in their catch every Saturday morning from 8AM to 1PM. Everything here is fresh, there’s no fake prop fish or fresh frozen fish here. If you are on vacation it’s fun to see what the local waters have provided (and if you’re a local you would be wise to bring a cooler) and there’s always a stand there serving up ultra fresh fish tacos, typically two for $13."

"Source: Photo by Flickr user Joe Wolf used under CC BY-ND 2.0. Photo is only for illustrative purposes. Escondido Promenade is a local shopping mall that covers all of your basic commercial needs."

"If staying in the mix downtown is your vacay of choice, make it an extended weekend by checking in to The Westgate Hotel on a Thursday afternoon to enjoy the Sunset Poolside Jazz Series on the rooftop pool deck. Rise and shine and head to the AquaVie Fitness + Wellness Club, which is adjacent to The Westgate. Incorporating organic skin care and body treatments, its holistic ethos purifies the body and restores balance."

"Brigantine invites you to explore the beach lifestyle of Coronado Island. The restaurant is located across from the Hotel Del Coronado, which is a must-see for anyone visiting the island. The historic hotel offers tours where you can learn the history of its celebrity status."

"More than worth a visit if you’re in the Gaslamp Quarter, Neighborhood features healthy food for everyone from the meat lover to the gluten avoider. Guests will also find around 27 local brews on tap and many more kinds of bottled beer."

"Taco Shack: Tues, Fri & Sat 4-7pm, Sun 2-5pm / B&S Bar: Fri & Sat 5:30-9:30pm. Join us for outdoor live music at the Beach + Taco Shack or Babcock & Story Bar."