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Fletcher Point with American Flag and Panoramic View down Del Dios Gorge. Rough trail from S4 follows length of lake shore center right

Multiple Dates, last January 12, 2024

Fletcher Point is peninsula feature at west end of Lake Hodges where lake makes 90 degree turn south towards Hodges Dam and Del Dios Gorge.  It is named after Ed Fletcher, one of creators of Hodges Dam and Reservoir.  It the least traveled part of the lake, but in many aspects the most beautiful.  There are two possible ways in:  Longer follows South Lake Hodges past Piedras Pintadas ;  newer "direct" trail, described here, starts from top of Alva Road in 4S farm.

Follow Rancho Bernardo Road east (exit 24 from I-15), then turn into Alva Road and drive to top where Alva loops back around the residential. There is no official parking, so just park anywhere on street.  Trailhead is little picnic area - see first photo in gallery - where wide trail known as "Lake Hodges from 4S" descends gradually in less than half-an hour to Del Dios Gorge.  At first junction keep contouring the lake;  left branch descends to the lake, optional short trip on return.  Trail now becomes much more rough and after contouring the hill and crossing the drainage is the confusing part.  Trail splits and it is unclear where to go.  Correct way is left;  scramble down short bluff (class 2 at most), then resume on rocky path that gradually improves the further you go.  On my trip I took the upper branch and dearly regretted.  It was better defined and had footprints, but soon deteriorates and stops completely in the bush.  I continued bushwhaching which was in hindsight completely unnecessary. In summer it could also be dangerous because of rattlesnakes you could not see as you can on defined trail.  Correct trail rounds one more hill and completely mellows after crossing next drainage.  There is one re-routed section here because of poison oak.  Unsigned junction /  trail to the right up the hillside leads to "Ralph Ranch" (Ralphs grocery chain owner lives there) - do not use for return, as it crosses private property.   Very enjoyable section of flat hiking now leads quickly to junction with South Lake Hodges trail and finally up to Fletcher Point, usually with US Flag.  This is such a wonderful viewpoint, easily the best in entire San Dieguito River Park.  On my visit there was even a swing under oak tree, just behind the Flag.

Return is the same way, with optional visit to the Lake via final part of "Lake Hodges from 4S" trail.  With two cars loop return via South Lake Hodges is fantastic option (leave other car either at Poblado Road, or in RB Community Park).  Highly recommended outing in San Dieguito River Park.

Update January '24:  There is now "Turtle Head" sign at first junction pointing to upper trail;  trail also appears regularly brushed off

Gallery