5 Amazing Hiking Trails in San Diego, California
- Stephanie Daniels
- Dec 28, 2025
- 3 min read
San Diego is widely known for its beaches and sunshine, but many people don’t realize it’s also home to miles of diverse hiking trails. From coastal cliffs to desert-style canyons, hiking is a core part of everyday life here — not just a weekend activity.
Whether you’re new to San Diego or looking to build an outdoor routine, these trails offer a mix of scenic views, physical challenge, and accessibility across different parts of the city and county. This guide highlights five local-favorite hikes.
Local Hiking Tip
San Diego trails often have little to no shade, especially in late spring and summer. Always bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and start early when possible — especially for inland hikes.
1. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Coastal Views & Iconic Cliffs
Torrey Pines is one of San Diego’s most recognizable hiking areas, offering dramatic ocean views, sandstone cliffs, and direct access to the beach.
Popular trails include the Guy Fleming Trail for sweeping coastal views and the Beach Trail, which leads from the cliffs down to the sand.
What to Know:
Start at Torrey Pines Beach Parking and walk up Torrey Pines Park Road.
Multiple interconnected trails allow you to customize your hike.
Very little shade — sun protection is essential
Location: La Jolla (25 minutes from downtown)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: Varies
Elevation Gain: ~439 ft
Why Locals Love It: This is one of the best coastal hiking trail experiences in the San Diego. It’s ideal for morning hikes, sunset walks, or showing visitors why San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle is so special.
2. Cowles Mountain Trail
The Highest Point in San Diego
Cowles Mountain is a staple for locals seeking a quick yet challenging workout. Located in Mission Trails Regional Park — one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. — this hike offers rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
What to Know:
Parking near the trailhead fills up quickly; street parking is common.
Rocky terrain with steady switchbacks
No shade — bring water and wear proper footwear.
Location: La Mesa (22 minutes from downtown)
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 3 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~912 ft
Why Locals Love It: It’s a go-to hike for fitness-focused residents. On a clear day, you can see downtown San Diego and even across the border into Mexico.
3. Iron Mountain Trail
Mountain Views in North County
Iron Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in North County San Diego, offering wide-open mountain views and a steady climb to the summit.
What to Know:
Parking lot near the trailhead fills quickly; street parking is available
Little to no shade
North County temperatures run warmer — start early in summer
Location: Poway (30 minutes from downtown)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: 5.9 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~1,125 ft
Why Locals Love It: This hike delivers some of the best inland views in the county and is a favorite for those living in Poway and the surrounding areas.
4. Mother Miguel Mountain
A Less-Crowded Local Favorite
Located in Chula Vista, Mother Miguel Mountain is a great option if you want a solid workout without the crowds.
What to Know:
No designated parking lot, but street parking is available
Steep, rocky sections with sustained elevation gain
No shade — sun protection is a must
Location: Chula Vista (20 minutes from downtown)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: 4.5 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~1,040 ft
Why Locals Love It: It’s close to downtown but feels removed from the city. This trail is popular with locals and offers great views with fewer people.
5. The 7 Bridges Trail
Urban Hiking Through San Diego Neighborhoods
The 7 Bridges Trail is a unique, mostly paved urban hike that weaves through historic neighborhoods and across — you guessed it — seven iconic bridges.
It’s also dog-friendly and perfect for a more relaxed, exploratory walk.
What to Know:
Navigation can be tricky; a map or guide helps
Start in Balboa Park near the San Diego Natural History Museum
Passes coffee shops, neighborhoods, and historic landmarks
Location: San Diego (10 minutes from downtown)
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5.5-mile loop
Elevation Gain: ~334 ft
Why Locals Love It: This trail offers a completely different perspective of San Diego — blending history, architecture, and everyday city life. Highlights include the Quince Street Bridge (1905) and the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge (1912).
 |  |
Building an Outdoor Routine in San Diego
Hiking in San Diego isn’t just about scenic views — it’s a way of life. Many residents build these trails into their weekly routines, using them to stay active, decompress, and connect with nature year-round.
Whether you prefer coastal walks, challenging climbs, or urban strolls, San Diego offers options that fit nearly every lifestyle.
Comments