Lake Miramar
About This Trail
Lake Miramar has something for everyone! There is a paved, flat road that has gorgeous views of the lake all the way around the 5 mile path. This path is great for strollers, bikes, rollerblades, and more! Not a fan of paved paths? No problem, there is also a dirt path between the lake and paved path. Both paths have trail markers every quarter mile and porta potties (including a few accessible ones) roughly every half mile. If you aren’t up for 5 miles, you could easily make this path an out and back. If you plan on turning around, I highly recommend starting counter clockwise as the last mile over the dam is the least pretty, surrounded by a fence, least amount of shade, and the path narrows. About halfway around the lake there are two places that are great to let the kids get out and walk around. There is a dock with shaded picnic tables on your left, and a little further down is Natalie Park on your right. Lake Miramar is a popular place so it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Depending on the time of day and season, it can also get extremely hot with limited shade, so plan to go early and bring lots of water. Very rarely there will be a car that uses this path, so keep an eye out for slow moving cars and fast bikes. After your walk you can go fishing, boating, hang out at the main recreation area, or get a snack at the concession stand.
Trail Features
| Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter |
|---|---|
| Surface type | Paved |
| Stroller friendly | Yes |
| Stroller terrain | Any Wheels |
| ADA accessible | Yes |
| Water fountains | Yes |
| Bathrooms | Yes |
| Cell reception | Excellent |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | Yes |
| Camping Nearby | No |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
Yes |
Trail highlights
Five miles along a paved flat path, with gorgeous views of the lake the entire way.
Fee & Parking Details
There is no fee to use this lake.
Trail Contributor
Hike it Baby member since spring 2016. Current HiB San Diego CA Branch Ambassador. Past HiB Orange County CA Branch Ambassador, and past National Team volunteer for Community Values, HiB30 Challenge Prizes, Mentor, and Ambassador Continued Education teams.
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Parking
Trail Head
Weather
Trail Map
Getting There
Coming from the 15 freeway, exit Mira Mesa Blvd and head East. Turn right on Scripps Ranch Blvd, then left at Scripps Lake Dr.
*NOTE* The address for this trail will take you to outside Lake Miramar. There is a hard to read sign (picture included), turn left there and head up the hill. The main parking lot is around the bend on the right, past a smaller lot on your left.
About The Guide