Trails & Conservation


Discover the Beauty of Agua Hedionda

Hiking

Bayshore Drive Trail

This is an approximately ¼ mile trail that overlooks the lagoon paddle-boarder's favorite beach. In the morning, birds can been at the recent habitat restoration project to the east.

Directions: Take El Camino Real and turn left onto Kelly Dr. At the end of Kelly Dr., turn right. In approximately 1/2 mile, turn left on Bayshore Dr. and continue to the end. The trail head will be on the left next to the Lagoon Foundation Sign.

Cove Drive Trail

This lagoon access covers 1/4 mile strip of shoreline and trail between the former cade residence, and the Carlsbad Boat Club. This portion will eventually connect with others to form a comprehensive lagoon trail.

Directions: Take El Camino Real and turn left onto Kelly Dr. At the end of Kelly Dr., turn right. In approximately 1 mile, turn left onto Cove Dr. and continue to the end. The trail head will be next to the Lagoon Foundation sign.

hubbs trail

The Hubbs Trail is approximately ½ mile in length and runs along the north shore of the outer portion of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon between the Coast Highway and the railroad tracks. Shorebirds are plentiful along this trail and perched nearby are pelicans who hang out at the Mussel Farm in the outer lagoon. Fires on this trail are prohibited and violators will be cited and fined.

Directions: Turn right coming out of the Discovery Center, right on Coast hi-way, right on Tamarack, first right on Garfield. Park at the end of Garfield and walk down the dirt access road to the trail.

kelly school trail

This trail is approximately 1 mile and runs along the northeastern border of the upland wildlife preserve, which is owned and operated by the California Dept of Fish and Wildlife. The area is dominated by the threatened coastal sage scrub plant community, which provides habitat for endangered species including the California Gnatcatcher, and Least Bell’s Vireo. This trail is home to a huge amount of native birds so make sure to bring your binoculars.

Directions: Turn left coming out of the Discovery Center, left on El Camino Real, left on Kelly Dr. Go to the end of Kelly Dr where it runs into Park Dr. The trail head is across from Kelly School and is marked with a metal gate.

discovery center trail

This trail is approximately ¼ mile in length and connects Cannon Road with the de-siltation basin on the southwest side of the Discovery Center. This trail provides a closeup view of the upland marshland area of the lagoon. Bring your binoculars as there are usually plenty of wetland birds to observe, such as egrets, herons, osprey and hawks. Although not as easily seen, be alert to the soft "mewing" sound made by the California gnatcatcher – an endangered bird that nests nearby. This trail is maintained through a partnership between the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Directions: Access to this trail is from the AHLF Discovery Center (dirt) parking lot.

Conservation

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon is a remarkable coastal wetland that serves as both a multiuse lagoon with public access and an ecological reserve protected by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Its significance lies in its ecological diversity, providing habitat for various species, and its recreational value for the public. However, it faces threats that require ongoing conservation efforts. Preserving the Agua Lagoon is essential for maintaining the health of the coastal ecosystem and ensuring its enjoyment for generations to come.

Coastal and marine ecosystems, including lagoons, wetlands, seagrass beds, and salt marshes like Agua Hedionda Lagoon have significant potential for carbon sequestration and serve as natural solutions to climate change. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon, with its multiuse functions and ecological reserve status, plays a vital role in this regard. By protecting and preserving the Agua Lagoon, we can enhance its carbon sequestration capacity and contribute to mitigating climate change while safeguarding the biodiversity and resilience of the coastal environment.


The 3.6 miles of trails and public access easements managed by the Agua Lagoon Foundation offer numerous benefits to the San Diego County community and beyond. It provides outdoor recreation opportunities to promote public health, provides economic and transportation advantages, fosters community pride and identity, and helps preserve a valuable natural landscape. It is essential to recognize the importance of protecting and maintaining such coastal wetlands for the wellbeing and sustainability of both humans and the environment.

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, in collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, is undertaking a significant project to eradicate Algerian sea lavender and other invasive species in the lagoon watershed. This project is primarily funded by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and involves close coordination with the Coastal Program Coordinator of Southern California.


The eradication of Algerian sea lavender and other invasive species in the Agua Hedionda Lagoon watershed is a critical step in ensuring the long-term health and biodiversity of this precious ecosystem. These invasive species pose a threat to the native flora and fauna, disrupting the delicate ecological balance of the lagoon ecosystem. To accomplish this ambitious goal, numerous volunteers have dedicated countless hours to monitoring, solarization tarping installations, and hand-pulling the plants. Their efforts play a vital role in the project's success. By actively removing invasive species, these volunteers contribute to the lagoon's health and sustainability.

If you would like to learn more and participate in volunteering with us, please visit our volunteer page!

Thank You To Our Trails and Conservation Partners

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