Surface: Paved, wheelchair accessible; flat

Length: 0.7

Difficulty: Easy

One of the best things about our 67-mile citywide trails system is the diversity of experiences the different trails provide. This week’s feature is a hidden gem that runs along the railroad tracks between Tamarack Avenue and Oak Avenue in the Village and Barrio area. 

• It’s officially part of the regional Coastal Rail Trail, a planned continuous bike route that will run approximately 42 miles between Oceanside and Santa Fe Depot in Downtown San Diego. 
• The Coastal Rail Trail was initially planned in the mid-1990s and is being constructed in segments by SANDAG and the various cities it travels through.
• The initial plan was that the entire trail would follow the railroad tracks, but over the years, costs and environmental concerns shifted some parts of the route away from the tracks and onto side streets. 

In addition to providing access to natural open spaces, the city’s trails network is intended to connect neighborhoods with each other and with services. This way, people can easily walk or ride a bike instead of drive to nearby locations if they want to.

• This trail can be used as a short cut between Tamarack and the Village, away from noisy cars, stop signs and traffic signals, although you will see an occasional train pass by.
• The path is totally flat, wide and paved, making it a great place to take the kids.
• Don’t worry, there is a tall fence between the trail and the railroad tracks. 

Parking and access

Street parking is available along Tamarack, Chestnut and Oak, which is where trail heads are located.

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