Hellhole Canyon Preserve

Cappie’s Scoop: Mom and I have been waiting to do this hike forever! It seems like whenever we planned to go, it was too hot. But finally we found the right day and got out there early. We decided to explore the entire area by hiking a big loop around the preserve. Keep in mind furiends that there is next to no shade on this trail except for one small part which was really nice. Other than that, you’re hiking down and up and around the canyon. The views were really nice but it’s a bit rocky so be careful and don’t run down those steep parts! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: Avoid this trail in the summer because there is little to no shade and it gets very hot. Preserve is closed in August due to extreme heat. Recommend hiking poles because some parts of the trail going down have those small little rocks that like to make us slide!

Directions: Can use address 19324 Santee Lane, Valley Center, CA 92082. Or from I-15, take the Valley Parkway exit and head east on Valley Parkway. Heading east, Valley Parkway will briefly turn into Grand Ave, Crescent Road, then 2nd Ave before turning back into Valley Parkway. Approximately 5.4 miles from the freeway, turn right onto Lake Wohlford Road. Follow Lake Wohlford Road for 5.9 miles and turn right onto Paradise Mountain Road. Follow Paradise Mountain Road for 3.3 miles, turn right onto Los Hermanos Ranch Road, then make a quick left onto Kiavo Drive. Follow Kiavo Drive for 0.5 mile and turn left onto Santee Lane where you will find the entrance to the preserve straight ahead.