Overview
Explore San Dieguito County Park's trails with us and log miles with us as part of our 2026 Hike-A-Thon!
Join us on the trail, meet new friends and log miles as part of Nature Unplugged's 2026 Hike-A-Thon! Each hike is ranger-led in partnership with the County of San Diego's Park and Recreation.
Registration encouraged, no cost to participate.
DICTIONARY HILL COUNTY PRESERVE
Located in Spring Valley, Dictionary Hill County Preserve spans 175 acres of coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitat. The County of San Diego acquired the property in November 2018 and will be added to the County's Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) to ensure long-term survival of sensitive plants, birds, insects, reptiles and mammals.
Dictionary Hill features a 2.1-mile trail with 360-degree views of San Diego and a rare butterfly ecosystem at the top. The hike is considered moderate, with an elevation of 565 feet, taking about 1-2 hours to complete.
The preserve is home to the coastal sage scrub-dwelling California Gnatcatcher- a threatened species under the Federal Endangered Species Act. You may also spot migrating White Crowned Sparrows, Rufous Crowned Sparrows and resident Bewicks Wrens. Coopers Hawks, Kestrels and Canadian Geese have recently been spotted circumnavigating the hill.
PARKING & MEET-UP
2036 S Barcelona St, Spring Valley, CA 91977
Meet at the kiosk at 2036 S Barcelona St, Spring Valley, CA 91977.