What Are the Best Hiking Trails for Beginners in San Diego?
Region's pleasant weather, diverse landscape ideal for hiking
Region's pleasant weather, diverse landscape ideal for hiking
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to exercise, try hiking, one of the best types of aerobic activities. Hiking in San Diego offers many benefits.
San Diego County has one of the most diverse trail systems in the United States. If you are new to hiking, the region’s mild climate and varied landscape have much to offer. You can find deserts, beaches and mountains all in one place.
“Hiking is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise,” says Jennifer Chronis, MD, a family medicine physician at Scripps Coastal Medical Center Jefferson in Oceanside. “Hiking can reduce your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke, as well as strengthen your muscles and lungs and increase your energy level. Regular hiking can also develop strong bones and slow bone loss.”
There are many trails to choose from. Here are some of the best trails in San Diego County for beginners. Remember to check local conditions before you go hiking.
1. Central San Diego
Balboa Park Trails: Trails provide easy hiking options for beginners near downtown San Diego. Each trail provides a chance to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Trails include:
- Palm Canyon Trail, winding paths, contains more than 450 palms
- Seven Bridge Walk, 5.7-mile loop, explore surrounding neighborhoods
- The Balboa Park Gardens Loop, 1.4-mile trail, explore surrounding museums
- The Morley Field Trail, 1.5-mile loop
2. Coastal areas
Cabrillo National Monument: Popular hiking trails at the historic park include the 2.3-mile Bayside Trail which offers views of San Diego harbor and San Diego skyline.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: Trails include Sunset Cliffs Trail, a 2.1-mile trail that runs along the cliffs. Another is Sunset Cliffs Park Trail, a 0.9-mile trail that also runs along the cliffs and down to the beach near Point Loma.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Trails include the 0.7-mile Guy Fleming Trail and the 1.2-mile Yucca Point Trail with stunning coastline views.
Dust Devil Trail: This 1.3-mile loop trail near Del Mar is an easy, flat walk. It is near the San Dieguito Ecological Preserve.
Tecolote Canyon Natural Park: Located near Clairemont Mesa and Mission Valley, this coastal valley park features the 3.3-mile Tecolote Canyon Trail loop.
3. Northern San Diego
San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve: Near Solana Beach, this reserve includes Annie’s Canyon Trail, a 2.3-mile loop trail, leading downhill toward San Elijo Lagoon.
San Dieguito River Park Trails: This park offers more than 65 miles of trails of every level, including Crest Canyon Trail Loop, an easy 1.1-mile loop near Del Mar.
Piedras Pintadas Trail: This 3.7-mile interpretive loop trail near Escondido offers the opportunity to learn about native Kumeyaay culture.
4. Inland and mountainous areas
Mission Trails Regional Park: This park has dozens of trails, including:
- Cowles Mountain Trail: 3-mile trail summits the highest point in city of San Diego.
- Visitor Center Loop: 1.5-mile trail through wooded areas.
- Lake Murray Trail: 5.7-mile, flat, paved trail circles Lake Murray, La Mesa.
5. South Bay
Tijuana Estuary Trail: This 4.6-mile trail near Imperial Beach is great for birdwatching and hiking.
Sweetwater Summit Regional Park: This 500-acre regional park in Bonita has 15 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy great views of the Sweetwater Reservoir.
Marina View Park: Located in Chula Vista, this park is a South Bay waterfront gem. It has walking paths and chances to see wildlife.
Rohr Park: Located in Bonita, this park has many friendly trails, including Sweetwater Park Trail, a 3.3-mile loop near a golf course.
Hiking tips
Follow these tips before heading to a hiking trail:
Stay hydrated
Before you start your hike, drink plenty of water and pack extra water to prevent dehydration. Bring snacks like trail mix and granola bars to maintain your energy.
Set a steady pace
To avoid overuse injuries, increase your distance no more than 10 percent each time you hike. If you are giving trail running a try, break up runs by walking every few minutes.
Safety first
Wear or bring light layers in case the weather changes. Be sure to pack a first aid kit and a flashlight.
Bringing your smartphone is helpful in emergencies. Phone apps can track your distance and elevation. They also provide GPS navigation if you get lost.