Horned Lizzard to Whiptail Loop

Overview

This ride has a nice 1 mile warm-up around the back of the Circulo Sequoia neighborhood ending in a mild, straight climb to the the Powerline Access Road. The climb up Horned Lizard begins with a traverse along the west side of the hill before turning upwards though a series of switchbacks. It's rocky and rutted out in spots with a few short but steep sections that will challenge intermediate riders. <br><br>MTB etiquette asks that you please stay on the trails through the more difficult sections so as not to widen the trail around obstacles.<br><br>There is a shade structure and MTB repair station at the top. Take a break and enjoy the 360-degree views of the ocean, lagoon and San Diego North County. On clear days, you can see Downtown San Diego, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Black Mountain, Palomar Mountain, and even Catalina and San Clemente Islands.<br><br>The descent on Whiptail Loop Trail starts out easy and gets progressively more difficult though the middle section of the trail. This trail was rutted out pretty badly during the heavy rains in 2016/17 making for some challenging turns and sharp rock gardens. The bottom third of the trail flows a bit more, allowing you to pick up your speed.<br><br>Stay to the right at the intersection of Copper Creek, and you'll finish with a short twisty climb back to the intersection of Horned Lizard and the Powerline Access Road.<br><br>Bomb down the Diestro Connector straightaway then take a cool down back the way you came.

Trail Stats

Photos

The view from the top is worth the climb.

The view from the top is worth the climb.

Copper Creek Falls at end of Whiptail Loop

Copper Creek Falls at end of Whiptail Loop

Horned Lizard Rocky Descent

Horned Lizard Rocky Descent

Tags