The 49 best hiking trails in San Diego

This hike was amazing! 🌊 The entry fee was $20, and we drove all the way up to the top parking lot to start the West Overlook Trail (about 3 miles). The beginning was mostly downhill with incredible ocean views and cool lookout spots. The way back is uphill, so it’s definitely a workout—but worth it. I highly recommend wearing good shoes and bringing plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking midday.

Breathtakingly beautiful and serene! The mountains on one side and the ocean on the other side makes it even more scenic. So many beautiful trails leading to the peaks where you can watch the sunset or sunrise in the most spectacular views. I loved going here and will come back again and again! Hands down 5 star!

Came here on a Friday afternoon late September. $20 day use fee. Did my hikes from the parking lot across the road from the visitor center. Good amount of parking. I could see it being an issue on really busy days. Porta potties there with hand washing stations. Pretty clean porta potties that didnt smell too bad. Decently warm day but there was a breeze most of the time making it pleasant most of the time. Hiked to Red Butte, Razor Point, Yuma Overlook, and the beach. Took a bit more than an hour including meditation and picture time. Downhill mostly to beach then back uphill to parking lot. Mostly gentle. Nothing too crazy. I am a middle aged guy that sits at a computer working everyday for most of the day and have some mild asthma and still did just fine. Amazing stuff. Although there were plenty of people there, there were still quiet times to enjoy the ambiance and sounds and meditate. Scenery is unreal, and the trails are well marked. Pictures I attach do speak a thousand words and display the incredible scenery. Got my beloved souvenir patch and postcards at the VC, which has no bathrooms or water for water bottle. Highly recommended. I posted lots of pics because this place deserves it.

This was an incredible experience. We drove up, parked and walked a trail. The view is stunning. I am so glad we decided to go here. After the hike we stopped by the beach. I'm so glad we came here.

A wonderful steep hike from the northern part of the parking lot down to the beach. Not for the week or people with bad knees. Lots of stingrays, so be very careful in the water to your feet

Simply, some of the best trail running in Southern California. One of the best places in the world to take a sunset walk. If you like hiking and walking with a family or loved ones… This is the place.

Torrey pines has many trails to hike and even run! Some trails have a lot of sage and smell great. We really enjoyed the beach -- it was not super crowded (during weekdays). The only problem is the traffic out, especially during rush hours. The State Park entrance and parking is $15 and there is plenty of space. There is also free parking before the entrance but it is almost always fully packed. If you arrive early, you might be lucky.

Took us 1 hour to get from the road at the trail head to the rock, which includes lots of breaks for photos and climbing on rocks. 45 min if you go direct (if you are a half decent hiker, I wouldn’t recommend for beginners). Shade is decent if you don’t go in the middle of the day (go either before 10:30a or after 2:30p.) It’s paved the whole way but it is a consistently steep incline.

Great hike. A good chunk of it is just a gravel road but it’s still peaceful. Early Sunday morning it was still very busy. Park at blue sky eco reserve 1.2 miles away to save the $10 parking fee.

This is easily my favorite hike. I would do it every day if I didn't have to drive for 45Minutes to get there... The potato chip pic was scary. The trail is nicely paved most of the way.If you are afraid of heights you might fall off. My whole body was shaking just looking down but I went up again 🤣..The thrill.Will do again and again!

Went during the sunset! It wasn’t busy and the view was gorgeous! Started at Hwy 67. As a high BMI woman, the steepness had me winded! 😅My nephew didn’t sweat at all 🫣 still would recommend for all, just take your time. Took me 1:20hr to arrive to the rock. If I moved faster and didn’t take tonsss of pics, along the way, could’ve been significantly faster. Paved most of the way. Bring a flashlight just in case. It got dark while we were walking down. And I only had an iPhone light 😬

Indeed, it is a very challenging trail. All you need to do is bring 2 items: 1. Alot of water 2. Good knees and toes. (knees for up slop and toes for down slop)

I started from the fire station, where there’s convenient free parking right next to the road. The trail is a smooth, well-maintained concrete path that steadily climbs uphill, offering a great workout and challenge. While it’s definitely a tough hike, it’s a rewarding one for those looking for something more challenging.

We approached from the Lake Poway car park but only reached the top of the mountain and didn't reach Potato Chip. There were three of us and we had around 3L of water, but on a hot day (80s), we needed a lot more to get there and back. Terrific views from the top. Highly recommend.

Not too difficult of a hike was a beautiful view.

Sunrise this morning. You can see downtown San Diego and Coronado bridge from here. Take your time to walk up if you don’t gets out and do this often. Best time is in early morning and late afternoon to avoid high heat.

I take my people who comes from out of town and wants to exercise and see San Diego from above.

The best place for quick but really good hiking. Moderate to hard - depends on people, I will say a moderate one. It’s always busy hike and easy to park in the road. You will see 360 degrees views all the way up-to north and downtown on west and beautiful hill stations in north and south. Please bring water. Been to this hike more than 20 times but still loving it. Beautiful sunset view in pacific.

Do not go in the middle of the day, by 11 am the trails are packed with people. This is a morning or evening hike. This is not easy. While it is covered in bushes and trees on the way up it still leaves little as far as shade. Bring hats, sunscreen, shade of some sort and tons of water. Go slow if you’re a beginner. If you are taking the service road route make sure you have shoes with good tread…skate shoes will have you sliding off the mountain for sure. And enjoy the view when you get to the top.

Really fun. Great views. Started going more often on my days off because the gyms were closed. Absolutely go early in the morning or at sunset otherwise theres many many people. Lots of crowds none in masks. Hike itself is rough if you rarely hike but many good places to stop and rest. I prefer going at sunset and night hiking. :^) Pre-covid going later there would be space in the parking lot. Potentially that will return in the future. :^)

As a Midwesterner who is newly moved here, mountains are a novelty and I love seeing them where I live. After hearing about the 5 Peak Challenge at Mission Trails Regional Park, I knew this was the challenge I needed since races in person are canceled for the time being. The parking lot filled up quickly as noted but I easily parked on the road outside the lot. The path to the summit was busy for 8am, but everyone was moving at a easy pace and enjoying the gorgeous weather. There are parts of the path where you have to climb over rocks but overall it isn’t too bad. For the websites that said this is a great hike for kids, I say, what age, because this was a killer workout for me but to be fair, I come from straight flat land! Beautiful views at the peak. Bring water and a hat, the sun was beating down early in the morning.

A really fun and interesting hiking spot with well-marked trails and detailed signage. You can choose between a moderate or difficult route to reach the overlook. If you go for the difficult option, the trail becomes a loop—you’ll enter from the challenging side and exit from the moderate side. If you choose the moderate route, you’ll reach the overlook and then return the same way. The entire trail isn’t too long - about 30 minutes - including the time waiting for others to pass, especially in narrow sections. Some parts require a bit of scrambling with both hands and feet. The view from the top is worth it, with a beautiful overlook of the lagoon. Great for a short, adventurous hike!

What a fun, short hike! We found free street parking at the trailhead and it took about half an hour of leisurely walking to get to the mouth of the canyon. It's a tight slot canyon, but short, with a fun exit up steel ladders. The top of the canyon loops back to the trail. Total time round trip was less than two hours including some sitting time. Take the side trail down close to the water to see some birds and perhaps other critters.

Annie’s Canyon is a beautiful place to hike with more experienced hikes, it’s very tight in the slots. Make sure you have good hiking shoes or sneakers that grip because there is loose sand and rocks to climb up. The parking is across the street off of Manchester next to the gas station, and plenty of signs to direct you to the hiking area. Make sure you take water with you and there are NO restrooms at all unless you buy something at the gas station. Do not take little kids or dogs if you are planning on hiking up because there is a ladder you have to climb. 🧗‍♂️

Highly recommended hiking trail! There is an easy 10-15 hike to the Annie’s Canyon Trail, then there is a loop, and you want to make sure you take the path from the left. The view was memorable and the journey was fun. Tips: - good hiking shoes highly recommend! Some places are sandy slippery, not a difficult hike but needs to be focused. Not suitable for people who have difficulty walking, especially at the top. - you might need to have both hands to hold on, especially at the ‘top’, therefore, do not recommend holding a phone or a water bottle. - when you see the sign for Annie’s Canyon Trail, take the path on the right. It’s the fun, exciting, and slightly challenging trail. Part of it is narrow and some parts are steep, and some stairs. It is a one way path and will reach the top, and the path down is the path that was the one on the left. (So if you take the left, easier path up, you will totally miss the fun!

Mos def an experience to try. I went early and on a weekday, so that there was nobody there. Had enough time to go thru the trail twice without anyone nearby. The earlier you go, the better. It's cooler then. Once that sun comes out, it gets warm. It can be a bit challenging if you're claustrophobic, so be prepared. I recommend that you try this trail hike. I'm from San Diego and have never heard of this!

Loved the trail and its views. Even little kids can make this hike. Truly enjoyed my time here. Highly recommend!

100% recommend this trail. The canyon walk through is short but worth it, is so just cool. There are many trails you can walk and some loop back to where you might have passed or started. The flowers were gorgeous. I think is best to go around spring when the flowers are in full bloom. We got there a little bit before 7am and there was plenty of street parking. By the time we left like around 9am the street parking was full and there were herds of people walking. So if you want to experience the canyon with no people at all, go early!

I have been coming here for years and now I visit from out of state. Trails, gardens, museums, sculpture garden, botanical building and just so much more! Great place to see art and history as well. Coffee shops and patios to enjoy. I was fortunate to listen to the massive organ as it was Friday, the day someone plays. A lot to enjoy for free and there are others places there that require admission. We'll worth a visit!

Absolutely beautiful. It’s full of gardens, museums, and stunning architecture. Perfect for walking, relaxing, or taking photos. The atmosphere is peaceful yet lively, and there’s always something interesting going on. It’s totally worth visiting this iconic San Diego spot.

One of the best city parks ever! It’s large, well maintained, and in a pretty central location. Has tons of interesting places to explore, from the impressive architecture to the many museums and gardens. Lively, very aesthetic place and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring this park!

Balboa Park is a true San Diego treasure, and every visit confirms why it's a world-class destination. It’s more than just a park; it's a breathtaking escape that combines stunning architecture, lush gardens, and phenomenal museums into one unforgettable experience. You could easily spend an entire day—or an entire week—and still not see everything. We spent our day strolling along the Prado, captivated by the ornate Spanish Colonial architecture that transports you back in time. The gardens are a sensory delight, from the serene Japanese Friendship Garden to the vibrant blooms in the Rose Garden. The Botanical Building is a must-see, with its towering wood lath structure and beautiful koi pond. The best part? So much of this beauty is completely free to enjoy. For museum lovers, the options are endless. We visited the San Diego Museum of Art and were thoroughly impressed with the collection, but you could just as easily lose yourself in the Fleet Science Center or the Museum of Us. The options mean there's something for every interest and every age. Now, for those complaining about parking: 😡stop being lazy and get there early like everyone else. We arrived around 9 a.m. and found a great spot in the free Inspiration Point lot with no hassle. If you're not an early riser, there's a free tram service that will get you where you need to go. The park is massive, and a little planning goes a long way. Don't let your own poor planning diminish this incredible experience for others with a one star review😡😤. In short, Balboa Park is an absolute gem. The atmosphere is vibrant and inspiring, the grounds are immaculate, and the variety of things to do is unmatched. This is a five star experience from start to finish, and we can’t wait to go back.

Full of cultural and ecological beauty. You can nurture your mind in their museums, your eyes in the Rose Garden and arboreal scenery, your ears and spirit in their theathers and venues. Fully recommend to spend a day to relax or book one of their many events.

Balboa Park will leave you in awe. With several museums, garden and San Diego Zoo to visit, you will never run out of things to do. It’s a great place to bring the whole family. I how educational and historical this park is. I would highly recommend this beautiful park to anyone visiting the San Diego area.

The environment is diverse, welcoming and secure. It can be busy but its worth the experience. There was ample parking regardless of the crowds. Me and my daughter visited the natural history museum, admission price was reasonable and the atmosphere was good. The exhibits were interesting. I would visit again.

Medium challenge hike and great view on top! There is no shade at the top so bring a hat and some sunscreen 😊 Also, wear a good pair of hiking shoes or shoes that have good grip for the slightly steeper, rockier parts 👍

Decent parking. Very relaxed environment. Noteworthy challenge with rocks and elevation. Beautiful scenery. Lookin forward to next time!

Best close Rugged, Scenic 360 views of SD County. I only hiked a 1/4 Distance up today...

Nice views from up top, trail is more or less continuous climbing including steps and rocks. Strenuous. Bring water, as there is no shade i. The trail.

If you’re confident on your feet and have solid footwork, this hike is relatively easy and very manageable. The trail is well traveled and clearly marked, with a steady incline that provides a bit of a challenge without being overwhelming. The scenery is beautiful all the way up, with panoramic views that get better the higher you go. You’ll find plenty of natural rock outcrops along the trail perfect spots to take a break, enjoy the view, or catch your breath if needed. The trail attracts a friendly and active crowd, creating a welcoming and safe environment for solo hikers or groups. Tip: wear good hiking shoes with solid grip. Some parts of the trail can get a little slippery.

There is a parking lot that fills up quickly, and there are two vending machines filled with waters, vitamin waters, and Gator Aide that you can purchase for 4.95. Semi strenuous, uphill battle against switchbacks to the jagged summit. Trails are well marked, wide, and filled with scenic views. Weekday crowds, ziltch.

It's always and amazing hike and the view it's Breathtaking.

Ample parking space. I have never seen it crowded. Robberies do not seem to be a big issue. However, I would advise not to leave anything of value in the car, at least not visible. Using the porta potty is going to be one of the most terrible experiences of your life. Do so only if necessary.

Tons of parking at this parking lot. Went on a peak time during weekend and it wasn't more than half full. Lots of lovely trails that branch off and there's a small tunnel nearby allowing you to cross the street safely under the main road.

Good parking lot. Tucked away so you have to know where you're going, but many do because it fills up quick on a Saturday morning. Nice trails you can do a short or long hike.

We went today and the parking lot was closed off totally.

Nice walking trails

My toddler boys have been on so many different hikes but this remains at the top of their list! We love the visitor center which has an interactive museum attached to it where you can learn about the Kumeyaay people and the rich natural history of the area. We love all of the different trails which are kid friendly with mostly flat terrain and some climbing opportunities and even a creek to cool off in. The trails are also dog friendly, with a water station and a dog parking post in front of the visitors center. But be careful on hot days with both furry friends and kids who can get easily over heated. There is some poison oak on the trails so educate yourself on what that is and make sure your kids are careful too. There is an overflow lot if you can’t find parking here on the weekends or when they are hosting a free event

Mission Trails is one of San Diego’s hidden gems. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect without driving too far from the city. The trails are well-marked, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes that give you a great workout. The views from Cowles Mountain or North Fortuna are stunning, especially at sunset. I love that you can choose different vibes here—hills, canyons, even the San Diego River running through some trails. It feels safe, there are always people hiking, running, or biking, but it never feels overcrowded. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat since some areas don’t have shade, but overall, this place is absolutely worth it. A must if you want nature, exercise, and amazing views right in the city.

I hiked from the park entrance to the peaks of two mountains. It took about three hours. The nature was diverse and beautiful. The endless vistas were truly soul-soothing. The trail varied: at times rocky, sometimes crossed by streams, and occasionally a steep mountain path. So, make sure to wear hiking boots. With a racing heart, I stood at a steep cliff, taking in the incredible beauty. You'll occasionally meet other hikers on the route, so if something happens, there will be help. I hiked in the heat, so make sure to bring plenty of water.

One of my favorite places to hike, there are so many different trails and options. Fun, hard hikes, and mellow nature walks.

Great hiking trails right in the middle of San Diego! There are many different trails to choose from too! Uphill, downhill, flat, etc.

In my opinion it’s a very good hiking places with many trails for kids and adults i go every week end .

we were in need of a substantial hike. We headed out of central San Diego to a place called Mission Trails Regional Park. The drive here was only just over 15 minutes. We parked near the visitors centre and pretty much followed the Oak Canyon to Grasslands Trail found on AllTrails. On the day we visited it was extremely quiet and we only saw a handful of others out and about. It was a really pleasant place to visit.

I went there for a company hiking event. Many of the people had not been to the monument in the past so we explored the museum, the vistas, the lighthouse, and all the trails we could. We didn’t get to hear any of the doses talk about the history, but we read a lot of the information inside the museum. The weather was perfect. It was in the low 70s and there was a good cloud cover for most of the time. The parking lot is very large and can accommodate any size vehicle. The area at the monument is very large also and can accommodate a good number of people. There’s accessible parking and good way finding signage to get to each of the destinations. Our favorite part was all the trail system that we did a trail run on. Being able to see the Bayside and the beach side of the point was a really special thing. The new trail that was installed that went down to the tide. Pools was really well laid out and was not that difficult. I encourage you to bring water and snacks to enjoy on the trail and then a lunch to enjoy after your time in the parking lot or on one of the many benches along the trailsor in the park area. Make sure to take advantage of all the different areas within the park.

Incredible national park! Been here a few times even though I am not a local/Californian. Such variety to offer: great history, tidepools, great gift shop, junior ranger, lighthouse, and views of the city. Always great weather, with a nice breeze. Park film informational as well. You can often times see naval ships leaving nearby navy base as well. You will not be disappointed. Also of note is the nearby Rosecrans national cemetery. Amazing stuff there as well. The NP does require a fee, parking is plentiful, and bathrooms are great.

this was the first trail i walked in the state of california so the experience was amazing! the trail was long and one stretch of downhill/uphill walking so good shoes and water are a necessity! The view is unmatched and each step brings a new angle of the natural beauty!

Great location to soak in the pacific views and ocean breeze. You will need to go through a military installation to get here. Park rangers were super friendly and helpful. The ticket to get in is valid for 7 days. Walk in with a bike was $10.

This place is beautiful!!! We couldn't find the tide pools even though we were in the tide pool area so maybe high tide idk? But the views are amazing , the people were super nice, the visitor shop is also super cute!! Alot of history here, and beautiful hiking trails. A must see! If you have a military ID and or your America The Beautiful pass it's free :)

Absolutely stunning views of San Diego, the harbor and even Mexico. Watched jets take off. Friendly park rangers too. Unfortunately, during summer, the only times the tidal pool has a low enough tide is the extremely early low tide (4:30 am on this Aug day) and the park is closed at that time. The midday low tide was covering the tide pool by a few inches. If we came in October, we would definitely be able to see at midday. From La Jolla it was a 45 minute drive (11miles)and we paid $20 to get in.

Went on a Sunday around noon, overcast day, and little breezy. The view from there is amazing. Even though there was no sunshine, the color of the ocean looked so beautiful. Excellent spot to see the city, and if you like airplanes, you can have a good time just watching them take off and landing. I didn't have the rim me but I wish I could have hiked on the trails. Definitely will do in another visit.

amazing spot for a beautiful walk. although the name implies you should probably try to catch the sunset there, it’s beautiful during the daylight as well! not too busy either which makes it special.

Very beautiful coastal cliffs! We parked closer to the Sunset Cliffs Staircase and walked up and down to coast about 1.5 miles each way. Very scenic walk with views of the cliffs, ocean, flowers and beautiful coastal homes. Highly recommend. Not really a trail or hike, there is a sidewalk on the other side of the road so anyone can enjoy this. Definitely worth spending a couple hours here for some good free fun while in the area.

Great place to take a morning walk or catch the sunset. The trail is a mix of dirt and some parts where you need to walk on the road do to the proximity to the cliffs. There's also several small parking lots along the path.

I highly recommend visiting this spot for an unforgettable experience. Watching the sunset there was truly magnificent, offering a breathtaking view that captivates the senses. The serene ambiance and the stunning display of colors in the sky create a perfect setting for a memorable evening. It's an ideal place for those who appreciate nature's beauty and seek a peaceful retreat to unwind and enjoy the moment.

it's such a sweet place. I went here to hang with Jesus and felt so much peace.

Awe inspired experience to be surrounded by Jehovah God's creation.

one of the most beautiful stretches of land in the United States. Not such an enjoyable walk from my hotel on Point Loma as its very much uphill, but felt worth it once I got there and its a nice walk back. I do recommend driving for anyone reading this. Drive out there and then walk along the trail or the road.

This is really a great place for morning and evening walks. The sunrise and sunset views fill you with peace and make you feel grateful to just stand there and watch. Walking here while listening to the birds and breathing in the fresh air makes you feel so good. There’s almost no parking problem since there’s a private lot and you can also easily park along the street. The only disappointment is the restrooms because they are quite dirty and obviously not cleaned well. I think the staff should be more attentive about this. Other than that, it’s a perfect spot to come with your loved ones or just enjoy some alone time in nature. The walking paths are safe and wide enough. People of all ages can spend time here and feel happy.

Sunset Cliffs is considered one of the best spots in San Diego to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. If you want to see a beautiful sunset, I highly recommend visiting here. The area also features incredibly unique coastal cliff formations, making it perfect for a seaside stroll or photography. 📷 During low tide, you can explore the tide pools and look for hermit crabs, small crabs, tiny fish, and more. It’s advisable to wear comfortable sports shoes, but if you plan to wade into the water, you may need to take them off. Parking is available along the street, but spaces are limited, so it’s best to arrive early. There used to be a circular pit here, but it has now been fully fenced off for safety reasons.

Always love going here, or to La Jolla shore. The views are amazing! People are generally friendly, parking isn't too bad given the area. My nephew loves coming here. Always a fun experience.

Well worth the walk along the cliffs for the sunset! Also some nice beaches if you're up for the hike down to them. Trail, park, beaches were clean & well maintained. Limited street parking and a couple small lots along the cliffs available. Poor cell service further into the park and down on the beaches so plan accordingly!

I absolutely love going to Sunset Cliffs in the San Diego, CA beach neighborhood area at the very west end of Interstate 8. Being at the ocean is so refreshing and overlooking from the Cliffs is a bonus. There are hidden beaches along the Cliffs and hidden trails and pathways down low near the water from just south of the pier for about 3/4 to 1 mile south. Scott 2 miles south of the pier is a preserve park that is great for a short hike and catch sunsets. Many couples come with their picnic and blankets to enjoy a romantic sunset of the Cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Parking can be difficult so just plan a few extra minutes to find and plan to walk a little from the street parking. For sunsets, better to arrive very early as many people come for that. Lastly, no restrooms but the preserve at the south end does have stinky out houses. Too bad the city hasn't added public test rooms.

Great place! It has to be amazing when swell hits it there were some but I guess it gets big n must be amazing talking about the surf! For sunset, go throw a blanket and enjoy sunset watching the surfing, for me a must there’s great energy in this place I hope I will surf it one day too! There’s restrooms just kinda hidden

Gorgeous. The photos don't do it justice. There is parking available, but it may get full, so try to street park if you can. Make sure to wear good shoes if you plan to hike and visit during low tide if you want to visit the caves!

I absolutely love this preserve. I don't like that I can't take my well trained dog with me on the nice scenic trails though. This is a well maintained preserve great for the beginner hiker, someone who just wants a nice scenic stroll or even advanced hikers who wants to take it to the top of various choice mountains, like moubt woodson/potato chip or to the top of Ramona dam. It's all here and nice picnic areas in between. Family friendly too. I keep coming back since it's one of my favorites. Dogs must be on a leash.

I love this trail because it's difficult to find a shaded walk about in san diego county. You have options for two different lakes to walk around and a lovely picnic area. It's a 10 walk for me, can be moderately difficult if you go the full 5.5 miles. The walk around the lake park isn't shaded. Watch for snakes and bring lots of water.

Scenic and Versatile Hiking at Blue Sky Ecological Reserve Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is a fantastic spot for hiking, offering a variety of trails to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a 3-mile stroll or a 5-mile adventure, there’s something for everyone. The reserve is full of beautiful oak trees, lush vegetation, and diverse plant life, making it a peaceful and enjoyable hike. Highly recommend for nature lovers!

This is one of my favorite hikes! Perfect after work 5 mile hike from Blue Sky Reserve parking lot to the Lake Poway Loop and back. A couple hours and plenty of fun. It is very scenic and lots of beautiful vegetation and soothing Lake views to enjoy along the first half of the hike. And plenty of switchbacks. There is a store at Lake Poway marina that has a restroom and store for you to purchase a drink and snacks. There has always been plenty of wonderful people that I meet. Great hike, wonderful people and always great sharing time. Note: please bring at least two liters of water. I also suggest downloading the “All Trails “ Application which allows you to view the trails in your area and download offline maps for navigation. Also it tracks all your hikes and statistics for future return trips and sharing your experiences with others. No more guessing which trailhead to take and keeping you on course! All Trails has a free trial download for you to checkout! Happy and safe adventures to you! Randy Definitely a must do!

This trail is unique in a sense that it literally starts with green trees and shade. The only downside is parking, it’s very small but you can drive further west a block and get left into the traffic light and park in residential area. After you reach the top, you will feel relaxed as you see the water body, it’s fairly busy route. It’s literally a easy hike.

Easy trail, informative signs, the farthest starting point for a long climb to the Mt. Woodson summit or the Fry Koegel trail to the golf course.

Parking available when we arrived at 12:30PM on an early March Sunday. The trail to Lake Ramona is well maintained and an easy, wide trail; except the last 15 mins or so was a steep incline to the top. The trail is out and back, no loop. The beer garden is very inviting. We think we can sit there and talk for hours and hours. We have to go back for the Sunday fried chicken and nitro beer! Anxiously waiting..... Good view of Lake Poway and Lake Ramona at the top. Wild flowers are also blooming at this time of the year. Not much shade on this trail; however this early March Sunday was cool with temperature at mid 50s. Actually it was windy and cold at the top. It was a good hike if you have never been in n this trail. But I feel once is enough for me.

Beautiful place for a long walk, a short walk, or just sit on a bench and contemplate the peace and quiet.

Love walking my dogs through these trails! Great spot for bird watching as well

One of my favorite places to walk and run. The trails are well maintained and the views are nice. Sometimes you might get helicopters flying during the afternoon due to its close vicinity to the Naval Base. One of the more underrated places to hike in the South San Diego area but I highly recommend it.

Absolutely beautiful piece of land that you can tell has been kept as a natural estuary for obvious reasons. Plenty of birdwatching and a cement walkway around the perimeter! ADA friendly However there is constant helicopter and military activity in the air. I see it as a the cherry on top.

I have visited the Tijuana River Estuary a few times. There is a Visitor Center with information about the wildlife in the area. There is a parking lot and restrooms available. Lots of trails to see the birds and you can see Egrets, Cranes, and much more in the migratory seasons. There is a trail along the beach and you can get very close to the Mexico border in Tijuana. This is a lovely place for a day of exercise and bird watching!

Nice place to walk your dogs and bird watch. Don't let your dog off the leash, though, as there are cholla cacti in the area. Also, bring your own doggy waste bags as there aren't any baggy dispensers there.

Looks pretty cool. You can see Tijuana in the distance.

Really nice hike with beautiful views. This spot is dog friendly on a leach of course!

Point to you for a volunteer opportunities through work, fun to pull out invasive plants, weeds and clean up trash, however, not really much trash. Just a lot of weeding, great walking, very flat and nice Ocean breeze

Very flat, welcoming to strollers! Lovely afternoon walk.

I love walking there as it’s a flat walk. Ideal when tired or simply want to enjoy walking. I bring my dog there too and it’s a very rich and stimulating area for him.

Nice place to take an easy walk.

It is so peaceful and enjoyable, even if one isn't a super fast walker. There are many benches to sit and to listen to the birds, while looking out over the waster There are lots of wildflowers right now, in May. And you can bring your dog, on a leash.

Good place for a walk and a little photography. Pretty and nice views

The trail is okay. Dusty. Lots of bikers at the trail.

Nice hiking and mountain biking area with a decent amount of trails in the space between 4S Ranch and Rancho Penasquitos. From the top of Black Mountain peak you get great views of Del Mar beach, Torrey Pines to the West, Palomar Mountain to the North and Mount Wilson to the east. For mountain bikers you can ride up Black Mountain Summit Road, drop down Black Widow trail, climb back up and then ride Manzanita Loop, to Road Runner Loop, work your way over to Miners Ridge trail, to Lilac trail, to Ahwee trail and then back some of the fire roads. This is a great loop and gets you about 14 miles of riding and 2,600 ft of climbing. Make sure you wait a week to ride here after a heavy rain as it can get muddy especially on the North facing slope trails.

This is a moderate difficulty to easy hike. Hardly anyone on the trail the day we went. We occasionally saw a couple of horses running on the rail. Very green this February with all the rain.

This place was a hell of a hike. Don't let it fool you. Maybe it's just my cardio lacking fat self. I went when the sun was about to drop. I'm not sure if there is another place to park; but Google led me through the back way of a neighborhood and I entered through a "closed" gate. Definitely a sight to see though, at least once. It's a real nice view overlooking North County. However, careful when you come back down, when it's dark. There's no lights on the pathway. I've seen bikers going up and down the trail with headband lights. I should have been more prepared.

One of the best locations in North San Diego County for a technical mountain bike ride. The San Diego Mountain Bike Association has volunteered many man hours over the last few years to make amazing trails that flow really well while still retaining great natural features like rock gardens and chaparral canopies that the trail twists and turns through. Great views for days from the top of black mountain as well as Manzanita Loop, Little Black Mountain, and Road Runner Loop. Black Widow flow trail is scheduled to be installed in the very near future, so visit the San Diego Mountain Biking Association and see if you can help offer your time volunteering to build more amazing trails for future generations to enjoy!

Takes some time to figure out the best mountain biking routes to take but really fun once you start to know them. Big climbs and fun downhills make for a great ride and it's never crowded. Plus, great views from the top make the climb worth it.

Pretty steep and up and down hills also the trails are good for mount bikes for whoever likes the challenges.

Great area to hike in Carlsbad or technically walk because the trail is too easy. Great on a sunny day to walk around the lagoon(s).

Beautiful place to walk on a sunny day, lots of places to explore on the trail not off the trails. Clearly marked areas that are open or closed to public use. Beautiful habitat area. You can walk under the Interstate 5 freeway and fish. Super cool views

Most pleasant hike of the 66 miles of official trails in Carlsbad. Decent amount of shade, lots of covered benches to relax and enjoy the view (we like to eat takeout food there as an ad hoc picnic). Bikes are verboten. Lots of dogs, keep yours on a leash, please.

Love walking or running the trails at Batiquitos. Dog friendly, mostly flat trail with lots of places to stop, rest, & soak in the peaceful scenery. Plenty of dog bag and trash spots too and they have water dish by the main entrance for dogs. Or, hike the hill trails for more of a challenge. But truly, not too hard, good amounts of shaded areas, great for families. 3 miles total if you walk the main trail all the way down & back.

A great site for birdwatch and fitness walking. Great weather in the spring. A very friendly and informative Nature Center. Many public parking lots.

Beautiful easy trail around a preserve. Dogs are allowed, but on a leash. Great for all ages. Lists of places to rest and enjoy the scenery. Snake sittings on the trail be careful on surroundings along the trail.

Very nice trails for walking and running. It is pet friendly as long as your pet is on a leash. Unfortunately, especially for me, biking is not allowed. But I would still recomend it. There are tons for birds and wild life. As well as an online tour for people who want to learn more about the geography and history. Definitely will be coming back soon.

Nice trails in the middle of the city. Some areas are unsightly, but the start of the trail from the visitor center and after the golf course are nice. As you get past the golf course the trail is tree covered and many beautiful spots. It’s not a destination trail that one would come to visit, but if you live close it’s a nice area to hike and enjoy.

Greens were in great shape (Tee boxes & fairways lacking grass). Very pretty setting in the canyon - could be very nice if smoothing out of the non-concrete cart paths.

It was very peaceful and amazing the nature the animals the trees the quietness it was needed and I also decided to propose here it was perfect

Challenging 18 hole executive course with some par 4s and well kept greens. It does have a driving range, practice green and small chipping area. The pro shop is well stocked and friendly staff. Well worth the money.

Great canyon close to home. Keep yourself aware of time of day and time of year. There can be snakes 🐍 but it’s their home too. Other animals and sweet nature center here. Great hills!

I absolutely love this trail! If you get a chance to visit Tecolote around this time of year, the entire trail is in bloom. It's a very peaceful, off the beaten path hike that is also dog friendly:)

First time visiting this golf course and canyon and certainly won’t be the last... this golf course was great for beginners and not too expensive. I went during a weekday and it wasn’t too busy. I’d highly recommend checking it out.

Mount Woodson is the place consisting of the famous Potato Chip Rock in San Diego. The view is nice and there are lots of hiking trails to go up and enjoy the view

Bring a lot of water. Kind of overrated hike, the view is okay, but it is a great workout.

Love it

Beautiful trial

(Translated by Google) It’s climbing! But it's worth it. I recommend good shoes and above all a taste for effort (Original) Ça grimpe ! Mais cela vaut le coup. Je recommande de bonne chaussures et surtout le goût de l effort

(Translated by Google) Beautiful (Original) Bello

(Translated by Google) A great experience!!! (Original) Una gran experiencia!!!

Great hike. Up and down. Gorgeous views.

Moderately in difficulty, part of the trail has rocks and steep ascent slops. It was a great 5 miles around trip hike!

Rocky extremely difficult mountain 🏔 biking 🚴‍♀️ climb with lots of steps, drops, off camber turns. Great view at the top

North Fortuna is such a sweet trail, it’s long but worth it. River crossing is so much fun. Bring lots of water, not much shade.

This is one of the most spectacular places to see in the morning. From the sun just breaking over the mountains. If you're not a huge fan of rocks, altitude or hiking. This is NOT for you. The hike is somewhat strenuous. For a short hike to the summit. It's pretty much all uphill. But the view is incredible. Not recommended for the young children. Enjoy your adventure.

I took the Oak Canyon trail to N. Fortuna. Oak Canyon is really pretty, easy, and over rocks for a good portion. It was a big incline when Oak Canyon and the Fortuna trail met...then you get a little break before you take a right on N. Fortuna when the workout begins again. It was super fun, and the views are amazing!!

A better workout than Cowles with none of the crowds!

Beautiful beautiful cliff. I went all the way around to the golf course and then came down to explore the cliff/beach. Took around 2.5 h. Make sure you bring water. There is really no escape from the sun. And do check the tides before going to access the beautiful walk on the beach.

Hiking trails were closed unfortunately but the visitor center volunteers were incredibly knowledgeable and we learned a ton about local sea life and such. Beautiful beach as well.

The beach was not very crowded and it was very clean. You can hike to the top of the hill and take a paved trailbto an overlook of the beach and ocean. It is $20 to park and they do take cash or credit card.

Amazing place to spend time exercising or exploring all day! Loved this place so much❤️ About $20 for parking in their lot. Paved walking/hiking path showcasing beautiful vistas of the city,brackish waterways, forested hills to rocky shores & ocean. Great information center w helpful & knowledgeable park staff.

Beautiful trails, with a great variety of native plants on the bluffs and in the canyons. Be ready for some pretty good elevation gain, this is not a flat, shoreline, hike (nor is it El Cap). Bring water even in the winter. When they're out, dolphins, seals, occasionally whales, are visible from up there. In the summer we cool off from the hike with some time in the surf, looking back at the cliffs we were just on top of.

Nice place to walk around, cliffs are great to look at...water not best for swimming in my opinion.

One of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches in San Diego

Very nice place for a relatively easy hike, generally level with some minor ups and downs. Lots of mountain bikers but they were all polite and considerate. Would not recommend on a hot sunny day as there is not much cover. No facilities except a port-a-potty at our parking spot. Lovely waterfall area and lots of spring flowers. Plan on 2-3 hours of hiking.

The hike is quite moderate, spanning approximately 6.5 miles for the round trip, taking around 3-3.5 hours. The endpoint waterfall is decent, not extraordinary. It's more of a workout than a destination for stunning views. Note that parking costs $3, so bring cash as they don't accept digital payments. Ensure you have change since you place the cash in an envelope, and without change, you might overpay. Dogs are allowed, and our dog enjoyed the hike.

Perfect short day hike - could be done in ~1.5 hours if you just go to the waterfall and back. Awesome hike on a hot day with plenty of pockets of shade along the path. Good amount of parking and the QR code makes it really easy to pay ($5 for day pass).

Almost 7miles round trip, $5 parking cash or pay through website or app. There are portalet bathroom, water faucet, soda vending machine and some picnic tables on the entrance. There are 5 different crossings and maybe you can start from other locations from there for a shorter hike. Lots of trees for shades, there are benches to rest. Mostly flat but some have rocks and sands on the path. Lots of signs to help you know which way to go towards the waterfalls. Went on a Sunday and not too crowded. Good for kids, families, dogs on leash. We had fun!

Great walk along a creek with many access points to vary your distance. 6.5mi. RT from the park if you turn back at the falls. Took me about 2:15. There are other access points (see Maps) that make your distance to the falls more like 1-1.5 mi. There are two trails that run parallel, a wide mostly flat access road-type trail, and a more winding, shaded trail that runs next to the creek. The creek trail can involve numerous water crossings that are not much to speak of unless there has been rain recently. If the creek is running high you will either need wading shoes or end up doubling back several times. This hike is somewhat unique in Southern California as there are very few waterways (period) with this much preserved land surrounding. The waterfall is currently quite high as of 2/13/24 and lovely to see. Again, a unique spot given the ecosystem and easy accessibility. Parking does not cost if you park in the dirt lot near the baseball fields. Pets are welcome on a leash.

Always a nice enjoyable easy hike through the canyon.

Plenty of parking and easy to pay ($5) by QR. Portolets weren’t great (soaking wet- maybe they get hosed down in the mornings?) but I guess that’s to be expected. Nice wide hiking path. Dog and horse friendly and everyone I encountered was courteous. Dog waste bags and trash cans here and there. First part of the trail from the parking lot is uncovered and will be full sun when no cloud cover, but the rest of the hike offers partly to mostly shaded paths.

great experience tuff uphill pavement road

One of the best hikes in San Diego. The trail is a paved access road but do NOT be fooled by that fact. Sections are very challenging, but so worth the effort. For those who can’t take the sun, begin two hours before sunset. The majority of the hike is in the shade that way. Morning sun can be intense. Potato Chip rock is good for a look, but not the best part of this hike. I hike this 3-4 times a week. Just beautiful.

Mount Woodson is the place where you can find the famous Potato Chip Rock in San Diego. The hiking trail willl take you to the top to enjoy the view... Talking about the The Potato Chip Rock - As the name suggests, it is a rock that looks like a potato chip 🤷‍♂️ The hike to the spot is nice with lots of nice panoramic viewpoints to look over the city of San Diego. If you go from the Ramona side, there is a nice parking spot available as well. You won't get lost in this hike, so no maps needed.

Great hiking from Blue Sky Preserve to Mount Woodson and back. 11mi total

It is a beautiful trail starting from Lake Poway and all the way up to Potato Chip Rock. Magnificent views!

Such a tremendous hike! You can see for miles and miles. Take your time and see every angle as the road winds.

I have been on this trail so many times but it was light rain and the whole mountain covered with low cloud this morning. It was a wonderful experience how a little rain could change the view and all the plants and flowers on this trail, even the ordinary spider webs. It seemed so unreal for a typical dry weather in Southern California.

An Awesome and Beautiful oasis surrounded by communities in San Diego

The trail is challenging for beginner hikers. Beautiful views along the trail. Highly recommend to bring lots of water and wear proper hiking shoes. Dogs are allowed on this trail leashed, but the ground can get hot later in the day. I would have given this hike a higher rating however you're not allowed to swim in the lake and dogs aren't even allowed on the shore.

If you are looking for a challenging trail that will give you a great workout and sense of achievement, mount woodson trail is right for you. Be sure to wear a hat and double up on sunscreen if you’re pale and ruddy like me, and bring lots of water. The trail begins easy enough, until you reach the helipad about 1/3 of the way up, where the dirt pavement becomes a stairway of a thousand ascending boulders, winding up the mountain until you reach the famous potato chip rock. Then it’s time to walk back down! It’s just shy of 7 miles round trip, I walked 17,000 steps this time. Great fun, very satisfied.

I love this trail. It's super scenic, has so many activities you can enjoy, is hard enough to get your blood pumping, and leave you sore the next day. To potato chip rock it's 8 miles round trip, takes about 2+ hours depending on your speed, but has many other trails if your looking for something more mellow, and less intense. 5 stars 🌟 but remember the main entrance is at Lake Poway.

This is the best maintain mountain trail I have ever hiked. There seem to be thousands of strategically placed rocks making it more erosion-resistant and easier to climb. I think this trail should be renamed "Stairway to Heaven," which would be cool to play on a loop going up.

Good place to hiking, but you better come early morning, too hot afternoon, btw $10 parking fee

Way better than the Ramona paved trail! Beautiful views and challenging trail. You'll see a handful of people.

Ok. Don’t be a dummy. Here’s what you need to know. Park at the State park. Yes, it’s $10 on the weekend. It’s worth it- bathrooms, park, loads of parking, tons of grass, beautiful lake full of ducks. Next, plan on hiking about 1.5-2 hours uphill. Bring enough water. You will be going uphill, using small boulders as steps for about of it. In the fall, the path stays reasonably shaded all morning. It will take you another hour to get back down, and you will have gone 7 miles at that point. Good luck! Oh, and to get “the potato chip rock shot”, you will need to climb onto a large boulder, step across a large crack, then hop onto another boulder that is lower down over another empty space. If you’re afraid of heights…you can do what I did. Use your iPhone to take a picture of the rock, then a picture of you posing somewhere else. Turn you into a sticker and put you on the potato chip. Easy peasy. 😂

Great hike! Especially at night. Watched the sunset and super moon rise! Quite the busy trail, a bit of scrambling. Bring a headlamp of hiking at night.

Awesome views and decent trail! But going down kinda sucks cuz it’s so rocky. Overall great. But please, if you have a small dog, don’t bring them on the trail. They don’t wanna do a 4 mile round trip with tiny legs and sharp rocks in the ground ☹️

A very nice and challenging trail. Not for beginners. I walked 7.3 miles, and would recommend bringing lots of water and hiking sticks for people that have a hard time walking up and down hills and crossing over rocks. There were some diamond back snakes as well, but they didn't look too big. I recommend 10/10.

Trail is very rocky, hardly any shade and quite steep in places. It took us 70 minutes going up. That includes several stops for me to catch my breath. On the beginning of the trail there are 2 big signs to please not take your dog if it’s hot and if you do to watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and so on. We passed several people taking their dogs up. It’s just too hot. So bring plenty of water and wear hiking shoes. It’s so easy to slip on sandy rocks. A lot of people were on the trail but it wasn’t too bad. Especially once we we’re going down around 1:30.

Awesome hike with a good view! I went at the peak heat time and yes it was hot, but it was definitely tolerable..however, I am from a much warmer part of the country. Easy access to the trail with decent traffic to the top, but not enough to hinder your experience. Go there to find out yourself! No shade at the top so if that is an issue, bring an umbrella!

Moderate hike with some beautiful pandemic views 📸 ! Did the hike up to Cowles Mountain (2.8 miles round trip) and then over to Pyles Peak Summit (made it 5.6 miles round trip). I'd plan 90-100 minutes for the round trip to Cowles Mt (~45 minutes up, ~45 minutes down, and 10-20 minutes on top). Took us 2 hrs 30 minutes for a round trip to Pyles Peak Summit while spending 10 minutes at both Cowles Mt and Pyles Peak Summit. Did the hike on a Friday morning and was not busy. Really nice moderate hike, recommend when you're in San Diego!

Great hiking trail that leads to the highest mountain peak in San Diego. Love that there are two ways to get to the mountain - a trail (The Barker trail) and a service road. Can ascend one way and descent the other one. I would rate the trail as moderate difficulty as it takes some effort to climb it especially on a hot sunny day. Amazing views from the top - all of San Diego, including downtown and ocean, La Mesa, Santee and El Cajon.

Cool path, very secluded, don’t go by yourself. Bathrooms are horrible. Definitely a great workout. End at beach!

BEAUTIFUL!!!! The trail down is amazing and breathtaking. Wish it was longer but it definitely is not short. Not kid friendly not sandal friendly and if your afraid of heights or get dizzy easy I would not attempt. If your not looking to get dirty then this is not the trail. Very slippery in spots, can fall easy, tight spots to fit through. We only went down and did not come back up which I would of loved it but my friend did not want to 😢. To finish to the bottom you must use the rope to propel backwards over a slippery slope that at times has running water, if you know how slippery wet clay or ice is, this is like that no traction. The beach is beautiful and the cliffs are awesome!!! Definitely recommend it if you like hiking but not if your out looking for an easy walk.

Super thing! not a trail lol. Fun and a bit dangerous!!

Amazing trail. We went with a tour guide and it was very worth it. Plenty of views from cliffs and stories of the history and more from the tour guide. The hike was fairly difficult and I would strongly recommend bringing some type of durable gloves for climbing around the slots and sliding down them (yes there is a slide that has been built from the worn-down sandstone). Set aside at least 2 hours to truly experience everything this trail has to offer!

What a view! What a VIEW! Any one of those houses/mansions overlooking that trail is my dream house. A little bit of hills, little bit of valley, a little bit of beach, and a whole lot of ocean. Sunsets here are simply spectacular! My 11 year old and I tried to hike down to the beach but it was too late to get all the way down. There are some serious drops and places where you have to "kiss the wall" to keep moving down the trail and after about 30 minutes we had to turn back. Go before 3 on if you want to get to the beach spend some time and return with natural light. There is also a treck to the top of a hill overlooking the ocean. It seems easier although steep. Most people do it in their flip flops. Be prepared to get mud dusty on either trail.

This is a really cool hike! It can be a bit challenging at times, and also slippery on the route to the beach... So come prepared. The views from the top are amazing!! We hiked to the top then went along the ridge to the Black Beach overlook and took the trail down to the beach from there. Beware there are naked dudes-just so you know-but they're just chilling. We walked the beach back down south and took the Hi Chi Minh trail back up. This hike is a solid 5 stars!

This was an amazing little trip during midday. Finding the entrance through the neighborhood street was slightly difficult as there are no signs, so you kinda have to really look, and I also had to point people in the right direction as they had the same issues. When you walk through the opening of the brown fence with a graffitied trashcan in front, you will make your way through small walkways and will have to watch your step as parts get pretty steep and there is a lot of sand. You can enter through this way to go to the beach or you can go to the top of the cliff! If you find yourself walking on boards that stretch across small dried up ravines, you are going towards the beach and the pathway gets tight with shrubbery! Stay to the right and get up to the top to get a beautiful view of hangliders, multimillion dollar homes, and the pier at La Jolla! Definitely worth the trip!!

The La Jolla Coastal Trail is a must-do for anyone visiting San Diego! This scenic 2.5-mile path winds along the bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Here's a breakdown of what makes this trail so special: Highlights: * Stunning Scenery: The views are simply incredible. You'll see everything from sandy beaches to rocky coves, towering cliffs to hidden tide pools. * Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for playful sea lions basking in the sun, colorful birds soaring overhead, and maybe even a glimpse of a whale breaching in the distance. * Easy Accessibility: The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it perfect for hikers of all levels. * Perfect for Photos: Every turn offers a new photo opportunity. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the coastline! * Relaxing Atmosphere: The sound of the waves crashing against the shore creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Tips: * Check the Tide Schedule: Low tide is the best time to explore the tide pools and see more of the coastline. * Wear Comfortable Shoes: The trail is mostly paved, but there are some sections with uneven surfaces. * Bring Water and Sunscreen: The California sun can be strong, so stay hydrated and protected. * Allow Enough Time: Don't rush! Take your time to enjoy the scenery and soak up the atmosphere. Overall: The La Jolla Coastal Trail is a true gem. It's a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the San Diego coastline and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, this trail has something for everyone. Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely beautiful walk along the coast. Trail is unpaved and has a little bit of an incline. There's a cove where you can watch wildlife. Pelicans, seagulls, seals, and sea lions. Can go right by the edge, on the sandy rock area, just gotta be careful not to slip and fall. Very picturesque, definitely recommend.

A STUNNING trail. You do not want to miss out on the views it offers. You can see the ocean, cliffs, beautiful flowers, sea lions, seals, and many other views. It's a very quick and easy trail involving 2 sets of stairs.

This is an easy trail that is lightly traveled. Very beautiful views of the ocean along the way.

Lovely walk, does ultimately spit you out at the La Jolla cove which is lively and fun views of seals but quite touristy. Gorgeous views, dog friendly, overall do suggest

A very cool and easy trail with some great views and a cool bridge.

Short easy trail from Torrey Pines Road to the Sea Cave. Parking around Torrey Pines is limited, but there is another trail entrance around the corner on Prospect. After the Sea Cave you can continue on the sidewalk and go all the way along the shore to Windansea Beach and beyond. Great place to see wildflowers and marine wildlife up close. Birds nest right up to the trail and sidewalk and seals and sea lions are all along the beach.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Extension is a hidden gem for hikers and nature lovers. Although this property is part of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, it is a detached, stand-alone property. It does not have beach access. It does not have a visitor center. It does not have restrooms or drinking water. It does, however, have a bunch of great trails. The Reserve Extension has four major trails: The Mar Scenic Trail is a north/south trail that has trailheads at the end of Mar Scenic Drive in the north and the end of Del Mar Scenic Parkway in the south. The Margaret Fleming Nature Trail and Red Ridge Loop Trail are to the east of the Mar Scenic Trail while to the west you’ll find the Daughters of the American Revolution Memorial Trail (“DAR” on park signs). I’d say that, overall, the trails are easy/moderate to hike. There are a few rough spots on the trails where erosion has kicked in but nothing that can’t be walked over or around while staying on the trail. Signage along the trails was pretty good. The trails are very clean: no trash at all and, because pets (dogs, horses, elephants, etc.) aren’t allowed, doo-doo dodging is not necessary. Unlike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, the Reserve Extension does not charge a fee to enter. Free street parking is available at the Mar Scenic Trail trailheads.

Lesser visited annex to Torrey Pines. Park in the neighborhood. A couple of miles of trails with overlooks. The trail was a bit overgrown in spots, some erosion damage too. It was all navigable. Go in late spring for the wildflowers.

A great not so little hidden gem! It is quite a fun adventure going on the few trails here, the bushes are tall and the trail narrow so it is a great escape that makes you feel like you are actually out in nature!

There was a nice view from up top. It is also walkable from the north parking lot of Torrey Pines, but there were parking spaces available at the entrance. Not many people were on the trail on a Wednesday.

Super fun Hidden Gem, pathways are a bit overgrown right now, and now I'm starting to get worried about some predators like a mountain lion creeping up on us! It's great to be able to park for free in various neighborhoods. Love the views from the various outlooks. And overall love the fact that we only saw four people on a hour hike on Mother's Day.

Great spot for a good view of the ocean and small town behind you. A fantastic place to see the sunset. Theres a sand trail that leads to a few rocky formations but nonetheless a quick easy walk. Some of the smaller trails are closed off due to rattlesnakes.

Absolutely unbelievable area tucked away up the hill. Just discovered it. Wow. Are we in Arizona? Del Mar and Torrey Pines and the area offer life altering nature and beauty. Great energy. Dont go off on trails that aren't clearly trails. It can get crazy. So nice there.

Absolutely Not a Trail — Hike at Your Own Risk I’m not sure who decided to label this as a trail on Google Maps, but it definitely shouldn’t be considered one. This is not a typical hike—it’s an extremely risky route, and if you choose to go, just know you’re doing so at your own risk. The trail starts off beautifully and feels like a regular scenic walk… for about five minutes. Then it turns into one of the scariest hikes I’ve ever experienced. There are no signs or markers to guide you, and at certain points, you have to sit and slide down, crawl between trees, walk across logs, and squeeze through extremely narrow paths (if you’re broad you might not fit). Eventually, it becomes downright dangerous. You’ll find yourself walking on a narrow ledge where only one foot fits at a time—with no railing, no trees to hold onto, and loose sand beneath you that slips easily. One wrong move and it could end badly. I would honestly say avoid, avoid, avoid—especially if you’re not an experienced hiker or are afraid of heights. But if you’re still determined to go, please prepare yourself mentally and physically, wear proper footwear, and don’t go alone.

Fun trail. Slot canyon, 2x8 plank bridge, tall reeds, running water with small pools, and rope climb. But becareful. This is no stroll in the park. Slippery when wet. Don’t go if it’s wet, it will be too slippery for traction. Poor cell reception in the trail. Lots of steep off camber sections. You could get hurt. Have at least one hand free to balance. If you go down and don’t want to go up you can go south to La Jolla farms road to go back up (paved road) or go north to the Gliderport trail (dirt trail with steps to make it easier). The slot canyon is narrow so if you are wide or you have a large backpack you might get stuck. When I went Oct 27, the top was dry, but the very bottom section drop off to the beach was wet and very slippery. Some folks slid on their butts to get down. There is rope the last 30 ft to the beach that helps but still got mud on your clothes. Going up some folks could not get enough traction to get past the muddy section, gave up and had to take a different trail up.

This trail is fun, so long as you don’t have a fear of cliffs and are prepared to climb against some ledges. It is beautiful however for me personally I wouldn’t do it again, it is very slippery and I’m naturally clumsy and imagined slipping to my death on many occasions, thank god for my boyfriend who reminded me that I am insane and it’s fine LOL. Just do a bit more research and wear proper shoes as the dust under your feet feels like you’re slipping on ice lol. But BEAUTIFUL. If you’re not a scardy cat like me, I would def recommend!

The place is incredible. There are some parts that are indeed dangerous if you slip but with care is easy to go through. I saw old people and dogs going through and nothing happened to them, so if you’re in good shape, you should be okay. The worst part is a 1ft wide path very slippery because of the sand, but there is enough space to make a step and that’s it. People went through bare foot and in sandals, so you choose that. The last part, you need to “rappel” down to get to the beach and if you don’t wanna go up through the same way, there is a pav path to the left when you get down. But if you like challenges, go back the same way you came down. That not a nude beach, that one is way further to the right I think.

A truly unique and breathtaking location. Today, it was quite crowded, yet not everyone made it to the end of the trail and reached the ocean. Some parts of the trail were so narrow that only one person could pass at a time. I thoroughly enjoyed the trail and the stunning natural scenery.

This hike is also called the La Jolla Trail or Saigon Trails for those confused. This hike make me fear for my life. Granted, I could have been wearing more suitable hiking boots. But still, the hike was very slippery from the smooth rock surface and dirt. I didn't have any issue going through the slotted canyons, that part was cool. I assume at some point the trail will erode and will become impossible to keep your feet on there trail. There are portions where you must lean your full weight against the rock wall and shimmy or you will slip off the edge and many feet down into the canyon. The hike was way too stressful for me. Also, if you park at the Saigon Trailhead, the only way to get back to your car essentially is to hike Ho Chi Minh the same way you came. I was too scared to do it again, so we went up the stairs from Black Beach, however, ended up having to Uber back to our car since it doesn't connect above.

One of my favorite moderate hikes in Torrey Pines. It takes us about 20/30 minutes to get down to the beach depending on how slippery the rocks are. You’ll see all levels of hikers here to include surfers who can do it barefoot with surfboard in hand. The rocks can get sandy and slippery so shoes with better grip are ideal because there are some areas that you can fall pretty far. We’ve seen some hikers really struggle & turn around. My son did it in a cast but he his a moderately experienced hiker.

Incredible biking trail. Steep and tough climb going either way. CCW is my preferred route. Super fast downhill. Good hiking too

It is quite a bit challenging, very steep at some sections and a lot of rocks as well. Its worth it to get to the top of the radio tower to see nice views of north county.

Nice hiking trail especially in the spring. It can be a bit too hot during the peak of summer but there are plenty of shade along the loop. The trail can lead to a few steep spots, we thought we were lost at some point but Google maps works perfectly fine here. We did not see a lot of bikers when we visited but I can see that it can be a great trail for mountain bikers as well. You can see 4S Ranch area when you get to a clearing and it is beautiful from there.

Great trail, lot of mountain bikers go here. The trail to Black Mountain peak from here is 2 miles. It is narrow/steep at times, and really rocky most of the way (right up until the very top, where the trail widens significantly). The drive up to the parking lot is a tad bit steep and slightly narrow. The entrance to the road is also *extremely obscure*, so look carefully on your right when you're near.

The Miner's Ridge Loop Trail officially opened back up at 5pm on 4/18/18 after the City of San Diego did 15mo of arsenic testing. One section was capped to prevent arsenic dust from escaping on the trail, just before one of the most fun features to ride on a mountain bike, a challenging rock step. Here is a shot of the cap right before they removed the Trail Closed signs. Also included in the photos are where the Nighthawk Trail connects, close to Black Mountain summit, and a picture of Blue Eyed Grass in bloom in mid April. One of the best places to mountain bike in western San Diego County, but please use a bell when descening! You'll be having too much fun and going too fast to want to stop quickly when you come across hikers, dogs, and other cyclists. Enjoy!

Beautiful hike, not hard at all. Lots of poison ivy so you have to stay on the path. Great for walkers, bikers, dogs, families. I love the water features bridges and trees. Some areas can be tight so you do need to share with your fellow biker you be alert.

Fun trail that leads you up or down the mountain depending on which way you go. See picture for trails route. Seems dog friendly and the trail wasn't very packed except for a few mountain bikers which by the way looks like a fun trail for you types. As there isnt alot of hikers at least when I went.

This is one of the nearest hiking trail beside cowles mountain and black mountain. fairly easy 360 degree view from top, you will see the ocean and downtown. There is no shade in this trail so wear full sleeves and skin protection.

This peak has really great views into San Diego and the surrounding mountains. The summit has a telescope, viewfinder, and a un official wood sign .

It was a nice peaceful hike in the early evening and completed it just after sunset. 2 hours from start to finish, but it could be done faster if I had run. The only thing you need to watch out for is rattlesnakes. Other than that, it's great.

It’s an amazing hike. I suggest everyone to hike iron mountain at least once. View from top is very good. Try to go early in the morning because parking gets filled and gets crowded. If sun is too bright it will be difficult to hike so early morning is good.

Nice hike, a little under 6 miles 3 hours. Well maintained, beautiful views from bottom to top to bottom

This was a pretty gruling hike on such a hot day, but the peak made it worth it. A couple picnic tables up there and this cool viewer thingy. Fun photo ops too. Make the trek. I recommend it.

Moderate hike in mostly sunshine. Actually liked the views going up/down over the overlook panorama, but it is mid June and not as green as at the top. I enjoyed the boulders and plant material.

My favorite place to run/walk/ kayak! Miramar Lake used to not have bathrooms along the trail ’ but now they do, and it’s been years but still makes a huge difference! Going to Poway lake is more of a commitment that’s uncomfortable because there’s no bathrooms apart from the main entrance one and it’s usually not clean. This loop is perfect for walking. Tons of bikes, scooters, walkers, families. Parking lot can be busy, get here early especially during peak outdoor activity seasons like spring and summer. Kayaking is comfortable and lovely as well! Never looked into it but you can setup for a party at more than more little spot along the trail, driving your car on the paved road to these spots next to the lake. I highly recommend Miramar Lake Loop! Safe, paved, flat, and absolutely gorgeous in beautiful Scripps Ranch.

Lake Miramar is beautiful. The road around it is wide and lined with native California plants, along with some Australian eucalyptus and local palms. A floral scent fills the air, making you feel like you're in a canyon. The terrain is flat and ideal for easy running. I completed one loop around the lake clockwise, which is approximately 8 km. So, five loops would be almost exactly a full marathon. Most runners go counterclockwise, following the common habit from track and field. Unlike at Del Mar Beach, where runners often greet each other with a wave or slight nod, there’s no customary salute here. Parking is free, and restrooms are available near the parking lot and in a few other spots. Overall, this is a great place for both running and walking amidst a beautiful landscape.

Lake Miramar was pleasantly perfect today. *Friday Afternoon and the Sun was just glistening all over. I wanted to rent a bike today. Jason and staff at the concessions are very friendly and welcoming. You can boat, fish, canoe or rent bikes here. I went around 3 times since it's about 5 miles one loop. Just be careful since cars are allowed in the trail. Mother nature provided the tranquility and peace of the clear blue skies and the magnificent air just breezing through. Recommend for everyone to come experience.

Pros: Flat, wide, asphalt surface that accommodates walkers, joggers, skaters and cyclists of all ages and abilities; a 5.1-mile loop with great views of the lake and abundant waterfowl; several off-asphalt trails; strategically-place porta-potties around the lake. Cons: Popularity which leads to a tough parking situation (there’s plenty of parking at the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library); cars/trucks, etc., that are allowed to use the trail to drive ¾ of the way around the lake to reach a picnic area; people on e-bikes; people who don’t pick up after their dogs.

Great place to run, bike, boat and fish. Very calm and beautiful place you can enjoy from. Sunrise to sunset. A lot of birds and nature around you.. AmaZing location.

This trail rail offers something for everyone! Whether you love walking, hiking, running, biking, dog walking, birdwatching, fishing or boating, this 5-mile looped trail around the lake is an amazing destination. But be cautious as cars are allowed on the track and the cleanliness of the track is not properly maintained.

Roughly 4 miles longs asphalt trail loop that directly goes around the lake. There's a portion of the trail that cars can drive on to go to an additional park and parking lots. Shade is covering small patches of the trail. The inside edge of the trail has a slight drop in angle, which spans for maybe 2 miles. As far as I know, the large parking lot for the trail is not paid parking. Also, you can fish on the lake and on the beach. Take your dog on leash on the trail. As well as boat on the lake

The cave store location is great, we took several pics outside and down the walkway towards the water. The store itself had many interesting items for sale that our kids were fascinated with. We ended up paying to walk down the cave but it was very short and honestly wouldn’t recommend it for the price. The gentlemen who worked the entryway to the cave and who took payment wasn’t very hospitable.

We went on Labor Day - probably not the smartest move lol- we waited in line for an hour. The line wrapped around. But the views while you wait are spectacular! The steps down are deceivingly easy ITS THE WALK BACK UP! Two middle aged, out of shape adults heavy breathing with killer thighs. The cave was worth it!

First I had to line up outside the store and sign my life away. Then groups were let in to pay $13. After you went down 145 steps that were slick and tilted but short steps. There was a platform to take pictures. Then up the 145 steps. Seem like a lot for what you do but was still fun.

Not really worth the money if you tell me. I would rather see the seals and lions 13 now before it was 10. It's only like 10 minutes. You go down the stairs and their is a small platform that can only host 7 people crowded maybe 12. Water dripping from the top and has not retainers of the cave. I don't know if that is stable or safe. Beware if you enter There was no line when i went in but after spending some time at the beach there was a line.

This was awesome.. I didn't expect much but is incredible, bring money, you will want to buy from the many affordable souvenirs.. steps are steeper than you might think, watch your head, and steps are slippery, don't bring heels...😬😱

We arrived and joined the line. As the line was long, we were told to wait outside until it cleared up. Understandable. The line cleared up a bit, at which point we attempted to come back inside. The man running the line immediately yelled at us to go back outside. After some time waiting outside, we were told by a woman that we could all come inside, as there was no line. We came inside, at which point we were again yelled at by a staff member who asked us "who told us we could come inside". We went back outside. After 10 more minutes of waiting, we gave up and simply enjoyed the view on the nearby cliffs. Would not recommend due to rude staff and long wait times.

This place was amazing. We arrive a little before 11 on a Monday. It was no line and no wait. The views was nothing short of amazing. Entrance fee was $13