A Calm Morning at Lake Murray

Snowy Egret and a Great Egret

Last weekend, we headed out for a refreshing walk along the Lake Murray Trail in San Diego. The 5.7-mile loop is easy in difficulty, perfect for a relaxed morning, and the fresh, post-rain air made everything feel crisp and clean.

Overlook

With clouds still hanging low, the lake looked peaceful and still—an ideal backdrop for a quiet November hike.

Trail View

Starting After the Rain

Overlook

The trail was soft from the overnight showers, and droplets clung to the leaves as we set off. The coolness in the air made the first steps especially pleasant, and the scent of damp earth added a soothing touch to the morning. It felt like nature had just hit the refresh button.

Overlook

A Lake Full of Life

American Coot

Almost immediately, the water came alive with bird activity. Large groups of American Coots paddled across the lake, while Ruddy Ducks bobbed their colorful heads nearby. Seeing so many birds enjoying the freshly filled waters set a lively tone for the entire walk.

Ruddy Duck

Elegant Egrets and a Curious Grebe

Pied-billed Grebe

Farther down the shoreline, we spotted a Pied-billed Grebe floating quietly near the reeds. Just beyond it, a Snowy Egret and a Great Egret stood together, perfectly still as they watched for fish. The contrast of their sizes made the scene even more fun to take in.

Snowy Egret and a Great Egret

Songbirds in the Brush

Yellow-rumped Warbler

As we followed the path, the shrubs began to stir with activity.

Song Sparrow

A few Yellow-rumped Warblers hopped among the branches, a Song Sparrow delivered its cheerful tune, and a Ruby-crowned Kinglet flitted nonstop through the leaves.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Moments later, we caught sight of a pair of Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, their tiny tails flicking as they explored the thickets.

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Raptors and Resident Voices

Osprey

One of the standout moments came when we spotted an Osprey perched high on a bare tree limb, surveying the lake below with its sharp eyes.

Cassin’s Kingbird

Nearby, a Cassin’s Kingbird called from another branch, while a California Thrasher delivered its loud, musical notes from deep within the brush.

California Thrasher

Busy Flocks and Colorful Surprises

Bushtit

A small flock of Bushtits swept through the willow branches, chattering as they moved in their tight little group

Lesser Goldfinch

We also saw several Lesser Goldfinches picking at seeds, a few Great-tailed Grackles flashing their glossy feathers, and a group of Scaly-breasted Munias foraging together—always a treat to spot.

Scaly-breasted Munia

Feathers on the Water

Canada Goose

As we neared the far end of the lake, a few Canada Geese floated calmly across the surface. Their soft honks echoed across the water and added a peaceful soundtrack as the trail wound back toward the starting point.

Overlook

A Beautiful Morning Walk

Great-tailed Grackle

The Lake Murray Trail delivered everything we love about easy weekend hikes—relaxed walking, fresh air, and plenty of bird activity.

Overlook

The combination of post-rain tranquility and bursts of wildlife made the morning feel especially vibrant. It was a perfect way to spend a quiet November day together, surrounded by nature at its freshest.

Red Ironbark