San Diego Trails

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.

Recommendations[]

San Diego City Parks = loop trail
All Trails - GPS App - so you don't get lost.
See Also: San Diego County Parks
See Also: San Diego State Parks & Beaches

City Center Trails[]

City Center Region Trails
	Trail	Location	Notes
101	Seven Bridges Hike 5.5 mile urban hike	San Diego	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.
105	Coastal Tide Pool Trail Cabrillo National Monument Tide Pools	Point Loma	Tide pool overlook on Point Loma 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.
107	La Jolla Coastal Trail	La Jolla	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)
109	Mission Bay Trail Paradise Point Loop	West Mission Bay	You can really feel like you’re on vacation at the very tucked away Paradise Point. The resort takes up most of the tiny island in the middle of Mission Bay, and with its multiple pools, biking and kayaking, mini golf courses and fun activities for kids, it feels like a true resort vacation. But add to that a trek around Mission Bay and you’ve got a great day trip outing. Follow the path around the bay for the entire 12-mile loop, which is great for running, walking and biking. Or do a shorter 5-mile loop from Paradise Point to the western side of the bay. Break up the trek with a picnic lunch stop. (Trail Map- SanDiego.org)
110	San Diego River Trail	Ocean Beach to Mission Valley	A multi-purpose trail and pathway for pedestrians, bicycles and other users. The vision of the River Trail includes equestrian users east/upstream of Mission Trails Regional Park into Santee, Lakeside and beyond. This connected system serves as the unifying thread for the San Diego River Park system and will offer recreational opportunities and access to park facilities and nature, in general.
111	Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve	Rancho Penasquitos	Get to know this 6.8-mile loop trail near San Diego, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 5 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, mountain biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
112	San Elijo Lagoon Natural Preserve	Cardiff-by-the-Sea	San Elijo Lagoon is a peaceful place to enjoy nature. You can run, hike, birdwatch, take photos, or paint. It is one of the largest wetlands in San Diego. From sunrise to sunset, you can explore 7 miles of easy-to-moderate trails. You can also hike the quarter-mile Annie’s Canyon Trail, which is a bit harder. The trails pass through different types of nature, like salt marshes, freshwater areas, and shrubs. Kids will enjoy TRACK Trails, a fun scavenger hunt where they can find things in nature and win prizes online.

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
202	Santa Margarita River Trail	Northside of Fallbrook	Santa Margarita River Trail -WildlandsConservancy.org. 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.
204	Guajome Regional Park	East Oceanside	Nature Trail - Guajome Regional Park. 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.
206	Oceanside Harbor Trail	Oceanside Harbor	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)
208	Lake Calavera Volcano Trail Hike a Volcano.	North Carlsbad	Yes, there is an ancient volcano in Carlsbad, California called Cerro de la Calavera (also known as Mount Calavera). This volcano last erupted around 22 million years ago during the subduction of the Farallon Plate. It's a plug dome volcano and is part of the Calavera Hills Nature Preserve, which offers great hiking trails and scenic views. Calavera Hills Volcano.

East County Trails[]

East County Region Trails
	Trail	Location	Notes
301	Mission Trails Regional Park	Mission Trails	With nearly 65 miles of trails over 8,000 acres, Mission Trails Regional Park is a favorite destination for hikers and mountain bikers of all ages and fitness levels. Everything at Mission Trails Regional Park is free and it is just 12 miles from downtown San Diego. At 5800 acres, it is the largest urban open space park. 301.1: Father Junipero Serra Trail - This simple paved path, perfect for walking and running, is an easy way to get to the heart of Mission Trails and connects to many of the local trailheads. 301.2: Cowles Mountain Trail - This scenic pathway tp the mountain is one of the most popular in San Diego County. 301.3: Fortuna Mountain Trail - This beautiful 6.2 mile loop popular for hiking, mountain biking and running. 301.4: Kwaay Paay Peak Trail - Hardest uphill hike in the park. 301.5: Oak Canyon Trail - Beautiful scenary, rocky challenges, lots of wildlife sightings.
302	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)
303	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
304	Santee Lakes	Santee Lakes	Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve in Santee, California, offers a scenic and easy 3.5-mile loop trail that winds around seven man-made lakes, making it ideal for families, casual walkers, and nature lovers. With minimal elevation gain and a mix of paved and natural surfaces, the trail is accessible to strollers and wheelchairs in many areas. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, peaceful water views, and shaded rest spots along the way. (Santee Lakes Trail).

South Bay Trails[]

South Bay Region Trails
	Trail	Location	Notes
401	Imperial Beach North Trail	Imperial Beach	Scenic 0.9-mile path along the coastline, offering views of the Pacific Ocean and the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge. Ideal for birding and hiking, the trail is peaceful and often uncrowded, even in summer. It ends where the Tijuana River meets the ocean, featuring sandy beaches, rocky paths, and distant views of Mexico and the Coronado Islands. This serene trail provides a perfect escape to enjoy nature and wildlife. (Hiking SD County)
402	Mother Miguel Mountain Trail AKA: The Rockhouse Trail	Mount San Miguel	This moderately challenging 4.4-mile trail features an 870-foot incline and offers stunning views of Sweetwater Reservoir, Mexico, Coronado, and Downtown San Diego. Open to hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and leashed dogs, the trail is known for its steep sections and unique wildlife, including the Quino checkerspot butterfly. Accessible from Paseo Veracruz near Mount San Miguel Park, the trailhead provides parking and restrooms.
403	Bayside Park Bayshore Trail	Chula Vista Waterfront	This delightful waterfront destination is a trailhead for the scenic 24-mile Bayshore Bikeway, a wide, flat easy pathway for joggers, hikers and cyclists. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages. It features a fishing pier perfect for a relaxing afternoon, surrounded by marinas and restaurants. The park provides inspiring views of the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge and the San Diego skyline. Home to the Bird Sculpture.
404	Hilltop Park Loop Trail	Chula Vista	If you desire a hiking experience in Chula Vista that offers stunning views, family-friendly features, and a hint of nostalgia, Hilltop Park is the perfect destination. Notable for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
405	Sweetwater Park Trail	Chula Vista	Scenic 3.3-mile loop trail that offers an easy and enjoyable hiking experience. This trail is popular for running, walking, and mountain biking, making it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The path follows a seasonal river and is mostly flat, with some sandy sections, providing a pleasant and accessible route for all skill levels. Along the way, you'll pass through rolling woodlands and open fields, with plenty of shade from the trees. The trail is home to diverse wildlife and wildflowers, adding to its natural charm. (AllTrails.com)
406	Sweetwater Bike Park Only bike park in SD County	Chula Vista	Did you know this was a thing? Sweetwater Bike Park is equipped with: Four jump lines, ranging from beginner to expert, a kid’s pump track, a skill zone, two flow trails, a perimeter trail that connects to those different features, and an entry plaza – perfect for meet-ups and special events.

Desert Trails[]

San Diego Desert Trails
	Trail	Location	Notes
501	17 Palms Oasis Trail	Borrego Desert	A moderately challenging 3.6-mile route near the Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground, accessible via Highway S-22. The trail features the 17 Palms Oasis, a picturesque grove of palm trees offering shade and photo opportunities. Nearby, you can also visit the 5 Palms and Una Palma oases. At 17 Palms, there's a Prospector’s Post Office with a visitor's log book and water bottles. The best time to visit is from October to April to avoid the extreme summer heat. Be sure to bring plenty of water and check the weather forecast to avoid flash floods. (Ernie Cowan's San Diego Outdoors)
502	Mormon Battalion Trail Box Canyon Trailhead	Borrego Desert	The Box Canyon trailhead of the Mormon Battalion Trail in the Borrego Desert is a historic and scenic starting point located off Highway S2. Marked by a historic landmark sign, the trail follows paths used by American Indians, the Mormon Battalion, gold rush emigrants, and Overland Stagecoaches. The easy hike through Box Canyon leads to a dry waterfall and offers views of diverse reptiles and plant life, especially in spring. The trail ranges from 2,250 to 3,090 feet in elevation and is accessible via paved roads. The Mormon Battalion Visitors Center in Old Town San Diego has some great exhibits about life on the trail in the 1840's. Mormon Battalion Association Trail History - EnsignPeak Mormon Battalion Historic Site - Old Town San Diego

Mountain Trails[]

San Diego Desert Trails
	Trail	Location	Notes
601	Sunset Trail	Laguna Mountains	Truly a Gem of the Laguna Mountain and the Cleveland National Forest, the Sunset trail takes hikers traversing through dense forest, vast meadows, grazing cattle, gorgeous viewpoints and during a wet year, a pond and several large lakes. On a clear day, this trail offers impressive panoramic views of mountain ranges, the Pacific Ocean and downtown San Diego. Listed as easy, this trail can range in distance from a 3.25 mile loop or a 9.2 mile round trip out-and-back journey (connecting with the Big Laguna Trail).
602	Pacific Crest Trail	Laguna Mountains	A 2,650-mile long trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada, crossing through California, Oregon, and Washington. It's known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from deserts and mountains to forests and volcanic peaks. The PCT is a popular destination for both day hikers and thru-hikers, with many people spending weeks or even months exploring the trail. The PCT begins on a low hill near Campo (elev. 2,915′), a small town near the Mexican border. It then passes through Lake Morena County Park, tunnels beneath Interstate 8, and climbs through chaparral, scrub oak and pines to the rim of the Laguna Mountains. The trail dips into Anza-Borrego Desert State Park at Scissors Crossing, and then winds through the San Felipe Hills and lesser mountains of the Cleveland National Forest before crossing Highway 74 at 4,900 feet and climbing the backbone of the San Jacinto Mountains. It reaches its highest point in this section at 9,030 feet shortly before it plunges to its lowest point, crossing beneath Interstate 10 at broad San Gorgonio Pass (elev. 1,190′). * There are many local day-hike and overnight camping options for this trail.