Purgatory Creek Overlook – Lower Purgatory Trailhead loop from The Village at Park South

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Purgatory Creek Overlook – Lower Purgatory Trailhead loop from The Village at Park South

Moderate

4.6

(8034)

15,931

hikers

Purgatory Creek Overlook – Lower Purgatory Trailhead loop from The Village at Park South

02:13

8.57km

50m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

2.88 km

Purgatory Creek Natural Area

Highlight • Forest

Purgatory Creek has many miles of trails, most of which are shaded. You can venture along the top of the dam for views of the area, cool off by the …

Tip by

4.06 km

Purgatory Creek Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

As part of the Purgatory Creek Greenspace, Purgatory Creek Overlook enchants with its panoramic views around San Marcos.

Tip by

4.29 km

Pugatory Creek Natural Area

Highlight • Natural

Purgatory Creek Natural Area spans over 700 acres with three trailheads. The area offers nine miles of relatively flat trails that weave through meadows, juniper groves, canyon bluffs, and oak trees.

Tip by

8.05 km

Purgatory Creek Natural Area

Highlight • Trail

Purgatory Creek Natural Area is filled with 9 miles of trails winding through meadows, juniper groves, canyon bluffs, and oak trees. The trails are generally flat with a few gentle rolls.

Tip by

8.52 km

Lower Purgatory Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

This trailhead has great access to Purgatory Creek and views of Five Mile Dam. Some of trails are packed singletrack and some have room for multiple people to walk side …

Tip by

8.57 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.60 km

941 m

Surfaces

8.55 km

Elevation