Encinitas’ Manchester Preserve, located just about a mile east from Interstate 5 in Cardiff. The Preserve is a 123-acre open space area that features miles of varied trails within a wide, sloping canyon. In total, there are approximately 4 total miles of trails within, but this week’s route is 1.89 miles round-trip.

Starting from a small trailhead parking area, located on Manchester Avenue just south of Trabert Ranch Road, hit the trails and follow the main path up, heading toward the canyon highpoint. From the top of the Preserve, follow the loop across the top of the canyon in a clockwise direction, around the canyon, descending back toward the parking area. The single track will run alongside Trabert Ranch road as you finish. There are plenty of other routes to explore, but If you do, please be sure to stay on marked trails and out of sensitive habitat areas. You will find that most trails lead back to the main staging area/parking at the bottom of the canyon.

The trails at Manchester Preserve are rugged and steep in some parts. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good traction and watch your step!