Horsethief Canyon
Forest Service Road 16S04, Lakeside, CA
Horsethief Canyon, Forest Service Road 16S04, Lakeside. It’s an easy 3.6 mile hike that rewards hikers with a refreshing swimming hole. The trail was once used by thieves to corral their stolen horses. The hike is beautiful and scenic. The way down to Pine Creek Falls is the easy part. It’s all downhill, and it offers a beautiful view of the oak-dotted valley below. The creek is a welcome mid-hike oasis when the weather is warm. Wade in the water or sunbathe on the rocks before heading back up. The hike back is entirely uphill. When it is hot, the way back up is a doozy. Pack plenty of water. I once made the mistake of bringing my pugs on this hike. It nearly killed them. Beware of poison oak!