There are over 150 Scenic Trails in San Diego County. They vary in difficulty and suitability for hiking, jogging, biking, equestrian usage, rock-climbing, bouldering, etc. Here we will show them to you.
Caution: Beware of heat dangerous when exploring trails in summertime and other warm days.
1. Park Blvd Bridge (Balboa Park)
2. Cabrillo Bridge (Balboa Park)
3. First Ave Bridge (Downtown)
4. Quince Street Bridge (Downtown)
5. Spruce Street Bridge (Downtown)
6. Vermont Street Bridge (Hillcrest)
7. Georgia Street Bridge (Hillcrest)
102
Manzanita Canyon Trail hiking / gardens
City Heights
Trailhead is found adjacent to Ocean Discovery Institute Living Lab on Thorne Street. Adjacent to this trailhead is Manzanita Gathering Space with benches, mosaic sculptures and canyon overlook.
Watch for Jamie's Way Trail, a short steep hike to a garden that honors Jamie Bratton, a five year old casualty of a violent car crash.
This trail crosses Poplar Street to reach the adjacent Pepper Canyon Trail which also connects to Hollywood Canyon Trail which descends a great set of stairs. This trail connects to Hollywood Park, Azalea Water Conservation Garden and Azalea Community Park, where the trail loops around back to Manzanita Canyon Park.(2.5 miles) See SD Canyonlands.org for trail map / park guide.
103
Annie's Canyon outdoor trail experience
Solana Beach
A ultra-rare find for urban dwellers. Relatively short, easy, flat - this is one scenic landscape trail you will never forget. Ascend thru narrow slot canyon to a great vista overlooking San Elijo Lagoon. Trail Hint: Park at 150 Solana Point Circle and follow the trail signs eastwards. (All Trails)
104
Stonecrest Village Trail 1.5-mile paved walk
Serra Mesa
Trail view looking north
. The path is located directly next to behind the community of the same name. The path is located directly next to homes, but it also offers pretty views of wild vegetation growing within a homes, but it also offers pretty views of wild vegetation growing within a canyon separating Stonecrest Village from surrounding neighborhoods.
This is a fun and easy 1-mile hike perfect for kids! You'll see amazing ocean views, cool tide pools filled with sea creatures, and maybe even spot some whales in the winter. The trail starts off easy but gets a bit rugged with steep stairs, so be ready for an adventure. Dogs on leashes are welcome, but they can't go into the tide pools. It's a great place to explore nature and learn about the history of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's landing in 1542. Don't forget to visit between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm!
106
Coronado Bayshore Bikeway
Coronado Island
Ride, jog or walk this picturesque 24-mile route that nearly encircles San Diego Bay, offering stunning views of downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge, and the resort town of Coronado beginning at the Coronado Ferry Landing Park. The first section circles to Tidelands Park and under the great big bay bridge. It is particularly relaxing, with smooth, wide and flat paths perfect for leisurely rides or easy strolls. Whether you're exploring the bay's natural beauty or enjoying the vibrant local attractions, the Bayshore Bikeway offers a memorable biking experience.
This is a delightful 2.3-mile out-and-back path that offers an easy and scenic route along some very stunning coastline. This trail is perfect for birding, running, and walking, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. As you stroll along the paved concrete path, you'll be treated to breathtaking ocean views and the chance to observe a variety of marine wildlife, including seals and sea lions at the La Jolla Tidepools. The trail is accessible year-round and features gentle grades, making it suitable for all ages and abilities.
108
Guy Fleming Trail
Torrey Pines S.N.R.
A scenic 0.8-mile loop that is perfect for all ages. This easy trail offers stunning coastal views, rare Torrey Pine trees, and vibrant wildflowers. Benches along the path provide spots to relax and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Informative exhibits highlight the area's natural history. Open year-round, the Guy Fleming Trail is a serene escape showcasing San Diego's coastal beauty. (TorreyPine.org)
North County Trails[]
North County Region Trails
Trail
Location
Notes
201
California Coastal Trail North County Section
North Coastline
The Oceanside Strand portion of California Coastal Trail, approaching the Oceanside Pier.
Hike, Bike, or Jog 25 miles of coastline directly from Oceanside Harbor to Torrey Pines State Park on a mostly level route that follow Coast Hwy. Along the route is the Oceanside Pier, Carlsbad, Leucadia, Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach, Del Mar plus several lagoons and state beach parks. California Coastal Trail
Scenic wooded trail with lush vegetation and shady oak trees follows one of the few constantly flowing rivers of our County. On this 1800+ acre preserve see evidence of over 80 species of fowl, fish and mammal. This easy to follow 5-mile trail winds along and thru the river. Use the Sandia Creek Trailhead at 4251 River Edge Road. WildlandsConservancy.org - Official Site
203
San Luis Rey River Trail
Oceanside
Bike Trail approaching the Coastline.
Hike, Bike or Ride this Popular 9-mile easy bike trail that runs on the southside embankment of the River. It connects Guajome Park (#204) with the Coastal Trail (#201). This paved and mostly level trail is safe for all age groups, is completely separate from motorized traffic, and is free of stop signs and traffic lights. City of Oceanside Bike Trails.
Some 4.5 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands and mixed grasslands. Two ponds attract a migratory birds and serve as home to a variety of fish that will test the skills of any angler.
Guajome also has two day-use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court, restrooms and lots of green lawn space make this park ideal for picnicking – along with 33 tent and RV campsites, a caravan pavilion and a rustic cabin for those wishing to extend their stay overnight. See trail connections River Trial (#203) and the Rancho Adobe. (SDParks.org - Official Site)
205
Elfin Forest Trails
Lake Hodges
Creek crossing on the Elfin Botanical Trail
The reserve features over 11 miles of trails, offering something for everyone, from easy family hikes to more strenuous adventures. Dogs are welcome on most trails but must be kept on a leash. The reserve is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm. (All Trails)
Lake Hodges Overlook Trail: This moderate 6.9-mile trail offers beautiful views of Lake Hodges.
Way Up Trail to Harmony Grove Overlook: A 2.2-mile moderate loop that includes the Way Up and Botanical Trails.
Elfin Forest Loop: A 4.7-mile loop that is moderately challenging and is popular for hiking, running, and walking. It offers a mix of shaded and open areas
Escondido Creek Trail: A 6.4-mile trail that travels through native riparian, oak woodland, and coastal sage scrub.
Explore nearly two miles of paved walkways that wind around Oceanside Harbor and its adjacent beach. This bustling area features over 950 boat slips and is one of San Diego's top spots for sea lion sightings. The small harbor fishing pier offers a perfect setting for family fishing fun, with picnic areas conveniently located near the Pearl Harbor memorial. A variety of restaurants and shops enhance the experience, making it a delightful destination for visitors.
207
Bernardo Bay Trail
Lake Hodges
Scenic 2.5-mile loop trail on the south shore offering an easy and enjoyable hike with stunning views of Lake Hodges. This trail is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and running, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, lizards, birds, and even rattlesnakes. (SD Union Tribune)
East County Trails[]
East County Region Trails
Trail
Location
Notes
301
Storybook Hike Crestridge Ecological Reserve
Harbison Canyon
This unique and engaging outdoor adventure designed to promote literacy, family bonding, and environmental awareness. This self-guided hike features nature-themed storybook pages posted at several stations along a shaded loop trail. As you hike, you "turn the page" by walking to the next station, making it a fun way to enjoy a story while exploring nature. (Earth Discovery Institute)
302
Wright's Field Preserve hike/gardens
Alpine
A 245-acre nature preserve starting just behind Joan MacQueen Middle School, includes an open grassland with many native species and a man-made rock wall dating back to early 19th-century Spanish colonizers. Also look for shady Endelmann oak grove set amongst some large climbing boulders.
2.5-mile loop trail with many connecting trails offers a big variety of adventures.
Watch for the "Jackass Mail Trail Historic Route" which was part of a stagecoach line that ran from Texas to San Diego in the 1850s. Hidden San Diego - Trail Guide
South Bay Trails[]
Trail 401
Desert Trails[]
Trail 501
Mountain Trails[]
Trail 601
See Also:[]
For more info about camping in a San Diego County Park, call (877) 565-3600 or (858) 565-3600.
