SD - Annie's Canyon Hike

Great Outdoors - San Diego Annie’s Slot Canyon

Sunday November 26, 2023 at 9am sharp

We will be hiking the Annie’s Slot Canyon trail near Cardiff on November 26th. This is a moderate 4.25 mile hike with around 225 feet in elevation change. This is an open invite to members. 

Details: This is a beautiful canyon just north of San Diego, California. The trail loops around San Elijo lagoon and consists mostly of flat trail or gentle inclines, except for the slot canyon section. 

We will begin at the San Elijo Lagoon Nature center. Starting with the nature trail that follows along boardwalks, we will connect with the north coast trail and cross the bridge over the lagoon to the slot canyon trail. Once at the entrance of the slot canyon hikers will have a choice to make. They can either take the “difficult” trail which includes narrow passages and two sets of steep ladders, or they can take the “moderate” trail which consists of switchback and stairs. If we need to split at this point to accommodate various physical abilities we will discuss that at that time. The split would be momentary as the path is short, and we will all travel down the canyon together as the “difficult” trail is one-way.

Host: KJ Archer

Length: ~4.25 miles

Difficulty: MODERATE

Elevation Gain: ~225 feet 

Meeting Location: 2710 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff, CA 92007

                                https://maps.app.goo.gl/EB2vng5cDx8bVXX46

Meeting Date & Time: Sunday, November 26th @ 9:00am

Parking: Parking is available at the San Elijo Lagoon Nature center at 2710 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff, CA. If the parking lot is full, there is overflow parking across the street at the water treatment plant.

Cost: Free

Time Commitment: Plan for approx. 2 hours

Dogs: Dogs are allowed on 95% of the trails we’ll be taking. At the actual entrance to the slot canyon dogs are not permitted up the “difficult” trail due to the ladders involved. Dogs can use the “moderate” trail which includes switchbacks and stairs

What to Bring

• Food

• Ten Essentials

• Phone/camera 

• Warm/cool weather clothing

• Any prescription or other needed medications

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)

Cell Phone Service: No reception issues anticipated.

Health Problems/Allergies: This hikes goes through large sections of milkweed, goldenrod, and various other high-allergen plants so keep that in mind. It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with a trip leader if you wish.