California | A Little Run at Discovery Lake in San Marcos

Catch and release fishing at Discovery Lake

With all the events and heavy eating on my early week stay in California, USA, I wanted to burn off some calories. I asked my sister if there were any trails I could run in the neighborhood. Discovery Lake in San Marcos came easily to her mind. She had ran there with here friends there. It is also a short 15–20 minutes drive from Vista. So my sisters and I decided to go there one morning for some run, walk or stroll.

Run or bike. The trail is either dirt and paved

Discovery Lake

We took the Ronald Packard Parkway from Vista, driving south and exiting right to San Marcos Boulevard. Discovery Lake is found within a residential area. Parking was easy, probably because it was a weekend. There was no entrance fee as well. For an urban park, I was impressed how scenic this patch of nature was. Despite the drought, the park has thriving greens.

The lake isn’t as big at 5 acres but there were ducks and a number of people are fishing by the rocky shoreline. Fishing is allowed on a catch and release basis using barbless hooks. Swimming or wading is also not allowed. There’s an .8 mile (1.2km) trail loop around the lake. The trail has both a paved and dirt trail. This is quite an easy trail ideal for beginners but there’s also a more challenging route leading high up the hill.

Lots of greens despite the drought

Run or Relax

I’m quite envious of the residence to have Discovery Lake only steps away from their home. This 24 acre nature space is a playground for young, old and even dogs. People can have picnics, there are benches and quiet spots. For those who want to train, a 4 mile trail is available. If I live in the area, you’ll find me here often, whether running or relaxing.

Discovery Lake
650 Foxhall Drive
San Marcos, CA 92078