Ready to try a new hike in San Diego? It's a great way to stay active and when you exercise, you may sleep
better and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. San Diego has an impressive 360
miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails to explore. There's a unique trail for everyone and
so
many places to visit in our incredible county.
Annie's Canyon Trail
Visit Annie's Canyon Trail to hike through a quarter mile of narrow sandstone slot
canyons
near San Elijo
Lagoon. This trail features unique maritime terraces — rock formations that look like giant staircases
with
flat tops. Take in the views of the Pacific Ocean and the lagoon while you're in the area. This trail
isn't
for the faint of heart: If you don't like small spaces or steep hikes, it might be one to avoid.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park & 'Ehmuu-Morteros Trail
The sprawling Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California, so you're sure to
find
an interesting trail. If you visit between January and April, you might just see a superbloom! For a more
relaxed hike, try the half mile long 'Ehmuu-Morteros Trail to visit a former Kumeyaay village complete
with
native plants, a shelter and pictographs.
Seven Bridges Trail
No hiking boots, no problem! Check out the Seven Bridges Trail to see San Diego from a new perspective. Wind
your way across Balboa Park, Banker's Hill and Hillcrest in this 5.5-mile urban hike. You'll cross
multiple
bridges
and see iconic sights like the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose
Garden,
and
more.
Bayside Trail at Cabrillo National
For ocean views, head to Bayside Trail. Along the 2.5-mile round-trip trail, you'll see the ocean, the bay
and downtown San Diego. The trail starts near the Old Point Loma Lighthouse — stop in for a quick tour.
This
is an ideal
trail for people of all hiking abilities, but the returning uphill hike may be more difficult for some.
Mission Trails Regional Park & Cowles Mountain
Visit Mission Trails Regional Park and
climb
Cowles Mountain for a great 360-degree view from the highest
point in San Diego. It's one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. with nearly 60 miles of trails.
Before
you head into
the park, stop by Mission Trails Visitor Center for a trail map and to learn about the Kumeyaay people
and
their
history.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Explore the scenic trails and sweeping ocean views at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. See the rarest pine
tree in our nation — the Torrey pine — while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Wander the many trails or
take
the
Beach Trail down to the ocean.
What to know before you go:
Stay active with Best Health®
Whether you hike through a canyon, on a beach or anywhere in between, San Diego has some of the best trails in
the
state. While you're out exploring, you can track your activity, join fun challenges and much more by joining our
no-cost wellness program, Best Health. For on-the-go wellness tips, don't
forget
to get the Best Health app.