Rose Canyon Open Space Park is located in San Diego Just off the 52, between I-5 and I-805. The trail begins as fun singletrack including a couple of skinnies over some water crossings, eventually becoming doubletrack paralleling the railroad. There isn't much (1) in the way of side trails to be found along this route.
Begin at the trailhead at the west end of the parking area. Follow the singletrack trail west, bearing right at any significant intersection. As you approach I-5, turn right heading north next to the concrete aquaduct passing under the 52. Follow the trail noting the railroad to the west. Continue north as the trail eventually widens to doubletrack and turns east, still following the railroad. After turning East, note the side spur to the South (right) leading to an alternate trailhead. Continue East; when you reach Genessee, make a jog north(left) to the 1st stoplight. Cross the road and re-enter the trail on the north side of the fence bordering the school. Continue East along the trail (avoiding the railroad - these trains cook right along and there have reportedly been many fatalities; there is no need to cross the tracks with the suggested route.) When you reach the 805, turn around and proceed back as you came.
*Warning: Don't proceed East past the 805. MCAS Miramar begins here, and trespassing is a major no-no.
Mostly a doubletrack along the bottom of canyon. There's some fun bits here and there and it's nice for having a lot of shade, at least for socal. If this were my backyard trail it'd be nice, but not worth driving more than 25 minutes for.
| ThankThis ride is all about where you enter. If you start at the end of Lakehurst, Biltmore, or Limerick, you'll have some fun, zippy downhill for 2 to 5 minutes. If you enter at Genesee or Regents, you'll have an easy, flat ride.
| ThankSister trail to Marian R. Bear Memorial trail. Mostly double track once cleared of the aqueduct along I-5. Be forewarned the trail is quite narrow above the water channel and a big penalty for a slip up there. Walk through area for most riders. Great beginner trail and good for 15 miles when ridden in conjuction with Marian R. Bear trail.
| ThankGreat central San Diego trails. I think this is perfect spot for beginner riders to explore and get some experience before heading out to more challenging terrain. In the fall, the scenery is quite picturesque due to the numerous fall colors in the trees. I usually park at the Marian Bear parking lot off Genesee, then either head east for a short trip and back, or just head west under the Genesee bridge; then follow the trail as mentioned in the description here. At the concrete culvert under the freeway, you can either ride along the eastern edge, which is very narrow, or climb across some rocks at the south end and then ride right up the middle of the ditch and hit the banks for some skatepark carving.
| ThankEasy ride, easily linked with Marian Bear trail for a great 2 hour ride. Disclaimer, rose canyon by itself is more like 7 miles round trip, not 10
| ThankA nice cruise through some of San Diego's canyon country. Good for night rides.
| ThankI forgot to mention, East of the 805 is Miramar. Trespassing = bad = no more bike. (or so they say)
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