Annie’s Canyon – A Complete Guide to San Diego’s Slot Canyon
A San Diego Hiking Guide
One of San Diego’s most unique adventures, Annie’s Canyon hike is a short but memorable slot canyon trail tucked into the coastal wetlands of Solana Beach. This hiking trail in San Elijo Lagoon is one of the few places in California where you can explore a naturally formed sandstone slot canyon so close to the coast. In this guide I’m going to cover the route options, which one is the one I recommend, parking tips, what to pack, and everything else you’ll need to know to get the most out of this hike.
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Annie’s Canyon was formed over hundreds of years by water and wind erosion, as seasonal runoff carved deep, narrow channels into the soft sandstone. Located in the San Elijo Lagoon, the area has seen significant environmental changes over time—at points being part of a wetland or tidal zone. These changing conditions, combined with heavy runoff during rain events, helped shape the dramatic slot canyon we see today.
For years, the canyon was a local secret that was unofficially accessed by unmaintained and unmarked trails through the environmentally sensitive San Elijo Lagoon. Because of safety issues, vandalism, and sensitive habitat concerns, the area was closed to the public.
It wasn’t until 2016 that the Nature Collective (formerly San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy), in collaboration with community supporters and local agencies, restored the trail and officially opened it to the public. The project included building a sustainable loop trail, installing signage, and protecting native plants and wildlife, making it a safe and scenic hike for everyone.
While this is an easy hike for the most part, there are some things that I wish I had known going in that would have made this a better trip for me. And today, I’m sharing those lessons learned with you!
Quick Trail Stats
Distance:
1.5 – 2.3 miles, depends on trailhead
Duration
40 minutes – 1 hour
Elevation gain
200 feet – 425 feet, depends on trailhead
Difficulty
Easy – Moderate
Why Annie’s Canyon Trail in San Diego, California Is Worth Visiting
Where Is Annie’s Canyon Trail Located?
Location: Solana Beach, California in the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve
Nestled into the San Elijo Lagoon along the Solana Beach coastal area is the Annie’s Canyon hike. This is a nature preserve with a network of natural trails that are free to the public and don’t require any kind of reservation or parking fee to access.
Along the hike to get to the canyon itself there are beautiful views of the lagoon, which is home to a variety of different birds, flowers, and other native plants.
I enjoyed watching a large group of coastal birds sitting on a large log out in the water, talking to each other and fighting for a spot on the log . It was both entertaining and relaxing to watch the wildlife interact. San Elijo Lagoon is truly a treasure that should be savored.
Make it a Micro Adventure!
Free resource alert: a micro-adventure guide book walking you through how to plan the perfect Micro-adventure- maybe Annie’s Canyon hike can be your micro-adventure!
Includes:
Trailhead Options
There are two trails that lead to Annie’s Canyon. Both are a good hike and provide unique experiences, but I would recommend one trail over the other.
Solana Hills Trailhead
Solana Hills Trailhead is the longer and slightly harder option, but parking is easier.
Distance:
2.3 miles
Duration
1 hour
Elevation gain
425 feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Start by parking at the end of Solana Hill Drive, where you’ll walk along the paved road to access the wide dirt trail at the end of the road. The trail then drops steeply down toward the San Elijo Lagoon, following along the highway Interstate 5 on a shadeless trail.
From there, you’ll connect with a spur off the Rios Avenue Trail that leads into Annie’s Canyon- this is well marked, and comes before you reach the bridge crossing the lagoon. At this point the trail levels out and turns away from the interstate, submerging you into the quiet shade of the lagoon.
After about a mile of walking the sandy trail alongside the lagoon you’ll come across a large sign pointing you towards Annie’s Canyon. It’s a side trail that loops around and takes you to the base of the slot canyon.
After you squeeze through the slot canyon, the loop takes you along through a wooded section with switchbacks before ending back at the Annie’s Canyon Trail, where you’ll circle back to the trail that runs next to I-5, all the way back to where you started.
Warning:
On the way down beware that the loose debris can cause a slipping hazard- make sure you’re wearing hiking boots! I wore sneakers and I slipped a few times.
North Rios Avenue Trailhead
A slightly easier option for the Annie’s Canyon hike, I highly recommend this option!
Distance:
1.6 miles
Duration
40 minutes
Elevation gain
200 feet
Difficulty
easy
Begin by finding street parking along North Rios Ave- this may become difficult during peak hours on weekends. The trail leading to Annie’s Canyon begins at the end of the road and is marked with a green sign welcoming you to the San Elijo Lagoon.
After the initial steep downward slope to the trail, the rest is fairly flat and sandy. After continuing along beside the lagoon you’ll come to a sign pointing the way to the entrance to Annie’s Canyon.
Once you’re through the slot canyon, follow the loop back to the trail that you will take back to the parking area.
While you’re in the Lagoon reserve, I suggest checking out some other trails in the area such as the Gemma Loop. Some of them may be flooded, but there are likely to be plenty of other options as well.
Preferred Trail
I recommend taking the trail that begins on North Rios Ave. I have taken both trails and I find that the North Rios side is more enjoyable for a few reasons:
Solana Hills vs. North Rios Drive Hiking Experiences
Solana Hills Pros and Cons:
North Rios Ave Pros and Cons:
If you’re not sure what hiking boots are best for you check out my blog post all about finding your perfect pair!
Trail conditions and terrain
Scenic Highlights
The Slot Canyon Experience
There are one or two sections along the hike that are really quite narrow and required me to side step my way through, with my front and my back body brushing against the narrow canyon walls.
The floor of the canyon slanted upwards for almost the entire way, with narrow metal steps being required at one point. The actual canyon part was surprisingly short, and that was with me really taking my time to go through it.
Once you make it to the top of the metal stairs you get a really beautiful view of the top of the canyon, the rest of the lagoon, and even out to the ocean.
I got to watch a hawk perch himself at the very edge of a cliff as he hunted for his next meal in the canyon- very cool!
What to Expect
Claustrophobic? Alternative Bypass Route Available
There are two ways to get to the top of the canyon- you can go through it (could trigger claustrophobia) or you can take the switchback trail that goes around it and to the top. This is a great option if you’re uncomfortable with ten+ foot walls very close to either side of you.
Note: once you go in the canyon there’s really no way to get back out except by going all the way through, so make sure you’re comfortable in tight spaces.
Great Photo Opportunities
Getting there early could give you the canyon to yourself, allowing for opportunities to take fun pictures with your friends! I enjoyed taking a video as I went through the canyon, and at the top there’s a lookout area for another photo opp.
Tips for Hiking Annie’s Canyon
Best Time of the Year and Day to Go
I got the canyon mostly to myself at 9 AM on a Saturday morning in February, but by 10 AM it was very crowded. I suggest getting there before 10 AM on a weekend or try going closer to sunset.
Time of year is really up to you! The nice part about San Diego is that you can get a warm sunny day in January or in June. I would keep in mind that the day will get hotter as it progresses, so if it’s a very warm day get there nice and early so you don’t get a heat illness.
What to Bring
If you’re not sure what to pack for a day hike? Check out my blog post all about preparing for a hike!
Trail Etiquette
Be mindful of others around you trying to enjoy the space. Give people space as they enjoy the canyon themselves! Remember to follow the flow of traffic- Annie’s Canyon hike is best experienced when going in the correct direction.
Safety Tips
Planning on hiking this solo? Here are some tips to keep safe out there.
Accessibility Notes
This would be a difficult trail with a stroller and impossible hike with a wheelchair, so I wouldn’t recommend it. If you’re looking for a stroller or wheelchair accessible hike, you might be better off at the Carlsbad Sea wall.
Nearby Things to Do
Looking for more San Diego hiking ideas? Check out these blog posts for some more ideas!
Best Winter Hikes in San Diego
The FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re a local looking for a quick nature escape or a visitor hoping to experience one of San Diego’s most unique trails, Annie’s Canyon is well worth the trip.
Between the sculpted sandstone walls, peaceful lagoon views, and easy access, this short hike offers a surprising amount of beauty and adventure packed into just a couple miles.
I hope this guide helps you feel confident planning your visit—just don’t forget your grippy shoes and your camera! See you out there.
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