Hiking San Diego's Slot Canyon: Annie’s Canyon Trail Guide
Lindsay Shimono
5/1/20254 min read
My parents were in town recently. Being the adventurous people they are, they invited me to join them on their trek through Annie’s Canyon in Encinitas. This was a highly anticipated hike for all of us. We had seen images online of people venturing through the trail’s narrow slot canyon and steep rocks for a post-worthy photo, so our expectations were high.
We met up at the San Elijo Activity Hub Park & Ride. A quick internet search told us the parking lot gets full later in the day, so we decided to go in the morning — around 9 a.m. There were plenty of open spots when we arrived, and the cool morning weather was perfect for a hike.
It doesn't take long to get to the start of the trail. After parking, just cross the street, take the suspension bridge under the freeway, and head right until you hit the path. As soon as you step into the slot canyon, you'll be consumed by the sculpted, narrow walls that surround you. Being wedged between layers of orange and black rock made me feel small, while the world felt endless. I had never done a hike like this before, so it was easy to feel mesmerized by the landscape.
We had to pause several times to wait for the group ahead of us to move forward (since the canyon is so narrow, it’s pretty difficult to pass anybody without seeming at least mildly rude). But while I’d usually feel a little restless waiting, I actually didn’t find it burdensome at all on this hike — the slot canyon offered enough beauty and funk that I was happy taking my time and capturing photos of the slick walls during the slower moments.
Those who aren’t comfortable with tight spaces, beware! It’s a one-way trail, so if you’re not sure you’ll enjoy the narrow parts, it may be safest to skip this one.
A section of Annie's Canyon Trail.
Soon, we reached several sets of ladder-like steps tucked between the canyon walls — you will need to be okay with a bit of climbing here! The ascent was a fun change of pace, and we emerged at the top to find a lovely view of the San Elijo Lagoon. It wasn't too crowded at the vantage point, and we enjoyed the cool breeze passing through as we admired the scene below.
But our awe was cut short when we realized that we had already made it completely through the slot canyon. Because of all the pictures and hype we had seen online, my parents and I had expected the canyon to be a lot longer. We all felt a little disappointed in its length; it was absolutely cool to experience while it lasted, but we didn’t realize how short it was! Most
as 1.5-2 miles long, but that’s only if you start at the Solano Hills, North Rios, or Via Poco Trailheads. The slot canyon itself is far shorter.
We weren’t ready for the trip to be over, so we decided to walk to the visitor’s center to see what else the area had to offer. We spotted a handful of birds bathing in the water nearby and picking fights with each other, but other than that, there wasn’t a whole lot to look at. On a better note, the visitor’s center itself was actually pretty interesting; it had a lot of information on the animals that lived in the area and even a live snake for the little ones to enjoy. There, you have the chance to make a small donation to support the area.
Overall, I wouldn’t rank this trail high on my to-do list. If you’ve never experienced a slot canyon before, it’s definitely cool to check out at least once. And if you’re looking for that perfect shot for your next Instagram post, you’re sure to find it here. But if you want a longer slot canyon experience, I’d recommend researching some alternatives. Once you’ve done this hike, you probably won’t feel the need to come back.
online publications label the hike
online publications label the hike as 1.5-2 miles long, but that’s only if you start at the Solano Hills, North Rios, or Via Poco Trailheads. The slot canyon itself is far shorter.
We weren’t ready for the trip to be over, so we decided to walk to the visitor’s center to see what else the area had to offer. We spotted a handful of birds bathing in the water nearby and picking fights with each other, but other than that, there wasn’t a whole lot to look at. On a better note, the visitor’s center itself was actually pretty interesting; it had a lot of information on the animals that lived in the area and even a live snake for the little ones to enjoy. There, you have the chance to make a small donation to support the area.
Overall, I wouldn’t rank this trail high on my to-do list. If you’ve never experienced a slot canyon before, it’s definitely cool to check out at least once. And if you’re looking for that perfect shot for your next Instagram post, you’re sure to find it here. But if you want a longer slot canyon experience, I’d recommend researching some alternatives. Once you’ve done this hike, you probably won’t feel the need to come back.
Hi! I’m Lindsay, a recent college grad turned full-time office worker in sunny San Diego. But I don’t let my day job stop me from exploring the world. How? Weekend getaways, holiday travel, and a clever use of time off. When I'm not editing copy or planning my next vacation, I'm on here, sharing my adventures and honest reviews with a bold community of travelers. Feel free to take a look around!
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