Ruth Merrill Children's Interpretive Walk

This Children’s Interpretive Walk is dedicated to Ruth Merrill who contributed greatly to the preservation of open space through her dedicated volunteer work with the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy and who worked for the betterment of children around the world through her volunteer efforts at UNICEF.

Incorporated into the first mile of the Highland Valley Trail is a kid-oriented interpretive walk that will introduce school-age children to the concept of native habitats and the importance of our natural river systems. Children will also have the opportunity to learn about some of the native plants and animals found in the area.

Numbered posts indicating Discovery Points are located along the trail. These numbers correspond to information provided in illustrated interpretive pamphlets available from the San Dieguito River Park. The program includes a 1.5-mile walk with 13 Discovery Points, or a longer 2-mile option that travels through a mature oak woodland and includes two additional Discovery Points.

Interpretive pamphlets are available free of charge from the San Dieguito River Park by calling (858) 674-2275 x 14.  School, scout, and other interested groups are encouraged to utilize this program as a tool to expand children’s understanding of the natural environment.  Here is a flyer you can take along with you on the hike.
Adobe Reader is required to read the flyer.  

The Highland Valley Trail is located on the south side of Highland Valley Road, in the Rancho Bernardo area. Exit W. Bernardo Dr./Pomerado Rd. from I-15. Head east, then turn left onto Highland Valley Rd., then an immediate right into the dirt parking lot. The site is located directly across the street from the Pepper Tree Nursery.

Funding for this program was provided by the City of Poway, County of San Diego Community Enhancement Program Funds provided by Supervisor Pam Slater, and private donations. Numbered posts were crafted and installed by Eagle Scout Curtis Shipp, Jr., Troop #277. The Children's Seating Area was a gift from the Soroptimist of Rancho Bernardo in support of environmental programs in the Rancho Bernardo area.