Private Covenant Trails

Private Trails

in The Covenant of Rancho Santa Fe

The Covenant in Rancho Santa Fe includes nearly 60 miles of private equestrian and pedestrian trails for Covenant residents and their guests. Maintained by the Rancho Santa Fe Association, the trail system is used for walking, running, horseback riding, and access to open space throughout the community.

The private trail network is one of the main outdoor amenities that distinguishes The Covenant from other Rancho Santa Fe communities. This guide covers trail access, basic rules and etiquette, monthly guided walks, and The Arroyo, another outdoor amenity available to Covenant residents and their guests.

Trail Access and Member Resources

The trails are private and reserved for Covenant residents and their guests. Association members can access the digital trail map, trail map PDF, and current Trail Rules & Etiquette through the RSF Association member portal.

Because the trail system includes both pedestrian and equestrian use, members and guests should review the current rules before using the trails.

Trail Rules and Etiquette

The RSF Association provides trail rules and etiquette for members and guests. Key rules include:

• Keep dogs leashed.

• Clean up after dogs.

• Give horses the right of way.

• Do not approach a horse quickly from behind.

• Do not ride horseback with a dog accompanying you.

• Do not use bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or motorized vehicles on the trails.

• Do not park vehicles on trails.

• Stay on designated trails.

• Respect nearby homes and private property.

• Follow posted rules in golf course areas.

Monthly Guided Trail Walks

Photo credit RSF Association

The RSF Association’s Trails and Recreation Committee hosts monthly guided trail walks for members and their guests. The walks are open to all ages and usually last about one hour.

After the walk, participants are invited to gather at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club for appetizers and drinks. Members can contact the RSF Association for upcoming dates and registration details.

The Arroyo

The Arroyo is a 68 acre property along the San Dieguito River. It is available to Covenant residents and their guests and includes trails, open space, habitat areas, a small fishing pond, and overnight tent camping with a permit.

Trails. Hiking and horseback riding are permitted.

Open space. The property includes wetlands, grasslands, eucalyptus woodland, and upland habitat.

Fishing pond. A small fishing pond is located on the property.

Camping. Overnight tent camping is available with a permit.

Campfires. A separate permit from the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Department is required for campfires.

Hours. The Arroyo is open daily from 7:00 AM to dusk.

Coast to Crest Trail. The Coast to Crest Trail passes through the Arroyo property.

What the Private Trails Mean for Covenant Homeowners

A resident only trail system of this size is not something every Rancho Santa Fe community offers. In The Covenant, the trails are part of the community’s original layout and remain managed by the Rancho Santa Fe Association for residents and their guests.

For homeowners who ride, walk frequently, or host guests who use the trails, this is a practical amenity, not just a scenic feature. It is also one of the reasons The Covenant continues to be closely tied to horses, larger homesites, and a more rural residential layout.