Batiquitos Lagoon Trail: Easy, Beautiful Hiking in Carlsbad

If you are looking for a beautiful escape right in the heart of the Carlsbad, then look no further then Batiquitos Lagoon. Even though this lagoon butts up to the 5 Freeway, it still provides a decent amount of relaxation and beauty in the middle of the urban jungle. This is a great family-friendly hike, and here is all the info.

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Details

  • 3.5 miles roundtrip
  • Basically flat
  • Hours: 9 AM – 3 PM
  • Location: 7380 Gabbiano Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92011
  • Information from my visit in 2017

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Getting There

There are a few main points of entry for the path, but I entered near the small visitors center on the westside on Gabbiano Lane. There is street parking right where the lane ends, and the dirt path provides access to the trail.

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The Trail

The trail meanders slowly along the lake for up to 2 miles. You can turn around whenever you would like though, as the trail can just be a short walk if that is all you feel up for.

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Along the way, the trail heads in and out of the shade, so be sure to bring sunscreen and water if it is a hot summer day.

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The area is part of a coastal wetland, and it is one of the few remaining tidal wetlands on the California coast.

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You will want to keep your eyes peeled for different birds that live along the lagoon. I am not a bird watcher myself, but here are a few of the birds I saw, and it was fun to be on the lookout for them while on the trail.

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There isn’t a ton more to say about this spot other than that it is a fantastic hike/walk for the whole family in Carlsbad. Other then the cars driving along the freeway, it does feel like you are outside of the city, and there are a lot of things for the whole family to see and explore on the trail. I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

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