Parks and Rec

Hike Another Part of the Loop

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Grab your binoculars and your hiking shoes; another mile on the Sweetwater Reservoir Loop Trail is opening to the public.

The County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved a new agreement with the Sweetwater Authority (SWA) allowing public use of that particular section of trail located west of the Sweetwater Reservoir. The agreement also allows hikers and bicyclists continued access to the southern portion of the Loop Trail.

“This is a big step forward because the public will now have access to six miles of trails near the reservoir,” said Chairman Greg Cox. “In time, we’re hoping that hikers and bicyclists will be allowed to travel an entire loop around the reservoir.”   

The trail head for the new section is off Conduit Road in Bonita. You can also get to it through Sweetwater Regional Park. You can park at Sweetwater Summit for the regular $3 fee and walk through the campground to reach the trail. The new section is currently open.        

The water authority is allowing public access to the existing one-mile section but County Parks and Recreation will now operate and maintain it with staff from Sweetwater Regional Park. SWA will continue to operate and maintain the five mile trail along the south side of the reservoir.

Tracy DeFore is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact