9 of the Best Walking and Hiking Trails in San Diego
Last Updated 1/19/2025
A San Diego Hiking Guide
San Diego is a beautiful coastal city, and in this post I'll go over the 9 best San Diego walking trails that you have to check out yourself.
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This post is all about the 9 best San Diego walking trails, where you can explore canyons, coastal cliffs, historic architecture, and even find a hidden swing!
Since moving to San Diego at the end of 2020, I’ve been exploring every square inch looking for the best walking and hiking trails, and I’m so excited to share my favorites with you.
I’m going to go share the 9 best San Diego walking trails, what time of year is best for walking and hiking in San Diego, how to prepare, tips for going solo, and other blog posts that you might find helpful.
By the end of this post you’ll be so excited and prepared to take on the best walking areas in San Diego!
9 Best San Diego Walking Trails
Sunset Cliffs
The best place in San Diego to watch a sunset really is Sunset Cliffs.
Having lived in Ocean Beach San Diego for a couple years now, I think the best walking trails in San Diego are Sunset Cliffs. They offer a walk right along the sandstone cliffs with the Pacific Ocean just over the side, surfers dotted along the water and Brown Pelicans flying in groups overhead. Not only a great place to walk above the cliffs, there are also secluded beaches and even sea caves along the way, offering a variety of experiences for a single easy-to-find location.
Getting here
Officially called the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park (Google Map Location), this area is located on the south-western portion of Point Loma in San Diego. Just south of Ocean Beach and north of Cabrillo National Monument, Sunset Cliffs are very accessible with many parking options.
Along Sunset Cliffs Blvd there are a few smaller parking lots if you want to walk along Sunset Cliffs Trail, or there’s a bigger parking lot at the far south side of the park. Link to maps for parking here:
Best trails
Sunset Cliffs Trail
Mileage: about 2 miles round trip
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 40 minutes - 1 hour
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 75 ft
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/sunset-cliffs-trail
One of my favorites walks in the city, this is an easy and mostly flat path that weaves between a paved bike path alongside Sunset Cliffs Blvd and dirt trails along the tops of the cliffs, giving you plenty to admire along the walk.
Once you find a place to park in one of the parking areas off of Sunset Cliffs Blvd or on one of the side streets, you can join anywhere along the trail for an easy walk.
This area does get quite crowded around sunset time, and is especially busy during the weekends. I suggest getting here early in the morning or an hour or two before sunset to get the most peaceful experience with smaller crowds.
If you want to stop for a picnic along the way there are a couple areas where the cliffs open up, offering plenty of beautiful places to sit alongside the ocean. I often find there are weddings or fancy picnics set up along the way, adding to the casual adventure this trail offers.
This area is truly amazing during sunset, and it’s the perfect place to unwind and relax with a casual but beautiful stroll alongside the Pacific Ocean.
Sunset Cliffs Park Trail
Mileage: about 1 mile round trip
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 95 ft
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/sunset-cliffs-park-trail
If you’re looking for a walking experience with more nature, then this short but fun trail is for you.
This trail follows along the cliffs with gorgeous plants and unique rocks, taking you down to a secluded beach. There are many side trails that shoot out to cool overlooks or mini canyons, allowing you to create your own adventure along the way.
Access is easy, simply park at the southern parking lot linked above and get to the trail from the parking lot. The trails are well marked and easy to see from the parking lot or along the Sunset Cliffs Trail.
Sunset is the busiest time, so coming in the morning or in the afternoon is your best bet for smaller crowds.
The author in the main sea cave of Sunset Cliffs.
Sunset Cliffs Cave
While not a recognized trail, you can follow some dirt trails down to a beachy area to access an open ceiling sea cave along the cliffs. This is a very unique part of these cliffs, and if you take the Sunset Cliffs trail you might walk right past the top of the cave which is fenced off from the top.
Keep in mind that because this is an actual sea cave, you will need to plan the tides accordingly and plan in advance. Without proper planning and research this could be a very dangerous or even deadly adventure. In order to access the cave you’ll need to go when there is a negative low tide, at least a -1 in order to avoid the most dangerous levels of high water.
This can be hard to time properly, so you may have to plan a few days or even weeks in advance.
Follow these extra steps for safety:
Look up the tides and plan for a day and time with a negative low tide.
Get to the access points 30 minutes before peak negative tide
Go with a friend
Leave before the tide comes up too high
Wear sneakers or hiking boots that you don’t mind getting wet and sandy
To access the cave, park near Luscomb’s point and go the right of the sea cave, where you’ll find a beach after a steep climb down. Go south along the cliffs until you can see the cave.
I found this blog post to be super helpful when planning my own trip: A Complete Guide to the Sunset Cliffs Caves in San Diego
Google: Sunset Cliffs Cave
2. Balboa Park
The California Tower near the Old Globe playhouse.
Balboa Park is one of the most beautiful areas in the city of San Diego for a gentle and interesting walk.
Built for the Panama-California exposition of 1915, Balboa Park is a beautiful area featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, multiple museums, and a variety of walking experiences.
After living in the city for over 4 years I’ve had time to explore scenic walks in the heart of Balboa Park and find some real hidden gems, including gardens and lesser known trails.
For a complete guide to the best walking trails in Balboa Park, I go into details in this blog:
Best Walking Trails in Balboa Park San Diego
Getting Here
Parking is easy at the large Organ Pavilion Parking Lot (put that into your maps app), which you can use to access all the trails below.
Best Trails
Looking into Palm Canyon from the start of the trail in Balboa Park.
Palm Canyon Trail
Mileage: ~0.5 miles
Trail type: Loop or out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: Less than 30 minutes
Dogs: yes, on a leash
Map: Google
Take a winding footbridge from the Spreckels Organ Pavilion into a lush canyon with over 450 palm trees, including Mexican fan palms dating back to 1912. This shady trail feels like an oasis, offering a light breeze and an easy escape from the heat.
Start at the pavilion bridge to explore the trail and loop back, or enter from the Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden for a downhill path that connects to the main trail.
For the best experience, start at the bridge, follow the canyon trail, and exit towards the cactus garden for stunning views.
Japanese Friendship Garden
Mileage: ~2.5 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 1 hour
Dogs: No, ADA service animals only
Map: Google
Tucked near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a 12-acre gem celebrating the bond between San Diego and Yokohama, Japan. Established in 1991, it features koi ponds, bonsai trees, waterfalls, zen gardens, and a traditional tea house.
Stroll through this serene space for a unique cultural experience, and if you visit in early March, you might catch the stunning cherry blossoms in bloom. There’s a small entry fee, but it’s well worth it for one of Balboa Park’s most beautiful and cultural walks!
Cabrillo Bridge and El Prado Walk
Mileage: ~1 mile
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 1 hour
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Map: Google
Discover the essence of Balboa Park with a stroll along El Prado and the Cabrillo Bridge, where you’ll enjoy stunning Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and views of downtown San Diego.
Along the way, stop at the Old Globe Theatre, inspired by Shakespeare’s Globe in London, and admire the striking California Tower, which offers panoramic views from its top.
Don’t miss the Alcazar Garden, a peaceful Spanish-style retreat with fountains, flowers, and plenty of spots to relax.
3. Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument, located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego, offers a perfect blend of history, breathtaking views, and coastal trails. This historic site commemorates Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast, with an impressive statue overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Coronado Bridge, San Diego Bay, and on clear days, even Mexico’s coastline.
There is a fee of $20 per car, which gives you access for the next 7 days. I think this fee is well worth it however as you get to see a lighthouse, a statue, many coastal trails, and a cemetery. And if the gorgeous views seem familiar, that’s because it was used for a portion of filming the movie Top Gun.
For more detailed information like current fee rates and hours, you van visit the state park’s website.
Getting here
Enter Cabrillo National Monument into your map app and it will pull up the entrance. From there follow the signs to the main parking lot, where you can easily access the walking trails.
Best trails
Bayside Trail
Mileage: 2.3 miles
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 1 hour
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 340 feet
Map: AllTrails
Offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, and downtown San Diego, this is a beautiful area to walk. Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and look out for wildlife as you take this trail along the cliffs of the southernmost tip of Point Loma.
Starting out near Old Point Loma Lighthouse, look for a sign pointing to the left before you reach it. The Bayside Trail begins as a paved road but soon transitions to gravel and dirt trails.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of signs sharing interesting details about the area’s unique plants, weather, wildlife, and historical landmarks, making it a self-guided tour as much as a walk.
To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.
Coastal Trail
Mileage: 1 mile
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 30 minutes
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Map: NPS.gov
This one-mile round-trip trail provides a scenic hike along the west side of the peninsula, leading to the tidepool access area. The trail features wide paths with amazing coastal views but includes steep stairs and steep slopes affected by erosion, making it unsuitable for strollers. It's an easy to moderate hike, popular with local dog walkers, runners, and hikers.
Oceanside Trail
Mileage: 1 mile
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 30 minutes
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Map: NPS.gov
Opened in April 2024, this mile-long trail connects the upper monument to the tidepools, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the New Point Loma Lighthouse, and the Rocky Intertidal Zone. The trail also features beautiful hillsides with lush native plants and traces of WWII history, such as gun mounts and other artifacts.
4. Torrey Pines
Looking up a canyon from the beach at Torrey Pines Natural Reserve.
Another gorgeous option for a coastal cliff hike, Torrey Pines state natural reserve was founded to protect the Torrey pines, an important and beautiful native plant that grows throughout San Diego’s coastal cliffs.
With sandy trails that walk along the cliffs down to a beach along with some lookouts, there are plenty of gorgeous hikes in Torrey Pines to check out. Although there is a small fee per car, I never regret a trip to Torrey Pines!
Fore more detailed information like current entrance fee rates and hours of operation, visit the state park’s website.
Getting Here
Torrey Pines is easy to get to. Simply type in Torrey Pines State Beach to your map app and park either in the parking lot by the beach or follow the paved hill to the upper parking lots.
For more detailed information about Torrey Pines and other winter hikes in San Diego, check out my other blog post:
Best Winter Hikes in San Diego County: Beaches and Mountains
Best Trails
There are many trails worth checking out at Torrey Pines.
Guy Fleming Trail
Mileage: 0.7 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 15 minutes
Dogs: No
Elevation Gain: 45 feet
Map: AllTrails
A great warm up trail, this short and easy loop takes you around a cliff overlooking the ocean with gorgeous coastal plants and trees lining the way.
Parry Grove Trail
Mileage: 0.6 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 20 minutes
Dogs: No
Elevation Gain: 111 feet
Map: AllTrails
An easy but beautiful trail that takes you past a garden as you make your way out towards the edge of the cliffs and along the ocean.
Beach Trail
Mileage: 2.3 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: About 1 hour
Dogs: No
Elevation Gain: 357 feet
Map: AllTrails
The true star of the show is the Beach Trail. This is my personal favorite at Torrey Pines and I can’t recommend it enough. Starting at the top of Torrey Pines Park Road, just before the golf course, follow along the cliffs that overlook eroded areas that have turned into mini canyons.
Heading down to the beach, finish up the walk along the pristine Torrey Pines State beach to head back to where you parked.
Sometimes during the summer you can catch an ice cream or iced coffee truck in the parking lot!
5. Mission Trails
The views and the blooming flowers along the Fortuna Trail is gorgeous.
Mission Trails Regional Park in San Diego is a sprawling, gorgeous natural areas covering over 8,000 acres. Located just eight miles northeast of downtown, it's an outdoor sanctuary featuring over 60 miles of trails that cater to hikers and walkers of all skill levels.
Offering stunning vistas, lush scenery, and a variety of flora and fauna the trails wind through rugged hills, open fields, and along the San Diego River, making it an ideal spot for enjoying nature's peace and tranquility.
I have a few favorite hikes and walking areas that I highlight below, but for a complete list check out this AllTrails list:
Best Hiking Trails in Mission Trails
Best trails
Thew view from the top of Cowles Mountain.
Visitor Center Loop
Mileage: 1.5 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 36 minutes
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 167 feet
Map: AllTrails
If you’re looking for a casual walk amongst unique cacti and coastal sage scrub, you might want to start with the visitor center loop. Starting at the gorgeous visitor center (worth a visit too!) where you can park for free, follow the signs pointing you along the loop. Use the AllTrails link above for custom directions from your starting location.
Fortuna Mountain Trail
Mileage: 6.2 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3 hours
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 1,348 feet
Map: AllTrails
A significantly harder hike than the visitor’s center loop is the Fortuna Mountain loop, taking you to the top of both North and South Fortuna mountains. With over 1,000 feet in elevation gain and a challenging and steep climb, this is a harder hike for sure.
The views along the way are gorgeous as you get to see the untouched rugged beauty of the Mission Trails reserve with the city of San Diego as a backdrop. Parking is easy and free for this trail at the end of Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
From the end of the Blvd, cross the bridge and take a left at the fork, following the Fortuna Mountain Trail until you get to the Fortuna Saddle Trail Junction, where you can choose to skip North Fortuna and take a shortcut back to the car.
Although this is a harder hike, you’re rewarded with a healthy challenge and gorgeous views the whole way up and down.
Cowles Mountain
Mileage: 3 miles
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2 hours
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 912 feet
Map: AllTrails
Cowles Mountain, San Diego’s highest peak, offers stunning views of the city, Pacific Ocean, and even into Mexico. The short, steep trail is rated moderate and can be crowded, so it's best to hike early or late in the day.
The hike is exposed, so winter mornings are ideal. The east side approach from Big Rock Park is less busy and offers better views. Enjoy panoramic vistas from the summit, but watch your step as the trail can be rocky and eroded.
For more detailed information about Cowels Mountain and other winter hikes in San Diego, check out my other blog post:
Best Winter Hikes in San Diego County: Beaches and Mountains
6. Annie’s Canyon
The skinny trail through Annie’s slot canyon is truly unique.
Right off the beach of Del Mar is this thin slot canyon you can wind your way though. An easy but interesting walk, this is a great spot to go for a safe and casual adventure.
This canyon does get very busy however, so the best times to go are very early in the morning. The pictures shown here were taken on a trip that started before dawn, and even then there was another group coming into the canyon!
Getting Here
Parking is easy, just look for a spot off of North Rios Rd and follow the signs for the Rios Avenue Trail trailhead.
Annie’s Canyon Trail
Mileage: 1.6 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 45 minutes
Dogs: Not recommended because of the ladder
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Map: AllTrails
Take the Rios trail for a half mile along the marsh until you reach a fork, taking the trail to the right. You’ll take another right to access Annie’s Canyon Trail that goes up to the slot canyon.
It can get very narrow in places, and there’s even a ladder to take at one point. This is a very unique and fun trail going through a narrow slot canyon right off the beautiful marshes.
Once you’re through the canyon take the trail back to Rios Trail and either take a left to head back to your car, or take a right and continue the loop through the woods and the salt marsh area.
7. La Jolla Coast Walk Trail
Looking into La Jolla Cove from the trail.
Another coastal cliff walk, the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail starts at La Jolla cove where you can watch the Sea Lions (emphasis on watch, don’t try to get too close) and walk north along the cliffs and across bridges as you take in the coastal breezes and palm trees.
There’s even a hidden swing right at the edge of a cliff that you can find. Another casual but rewarding adventure along the San Diego coast.
Getting Here
Parking can be challenging, so I suggest getting here early. You can park near the trailhead linked to AllTrails below, there is mostly free street parking with a couple paid lots.
La Jolla Coast Walk Trail
Mileage: 2.3 miles
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 hour
Dogs: Not recommended
Elevation Gain: 167 feet
Map: AllTrails
You have to find the secret swing!
La Jolla Coast Walk Trail is a beautiful trail that winds along the bluffs of La Jolla's coastline. It's a peaceful escape with stunning ocean views, and it's perfect for a leisurely but unique walking experience.
One of the trail's hidden gems is the secret swing. To find it, park at the Birch Aquarium parking lot and head to the back of the lot. Look for a subtle trail marker, cross a small bridge, and follow the path up.
You'll soon come across the swing, which offers panoramic views of the ocean. Keep in mind that the swing's condition can vary, as it's often repaired or replaced by kind visitors.
Along the trail, you'll encounter a unique wooden bridge. This bridge adds a quaint but adventurous touch to the walk and offers a picturesque spot to pause and enjoy the scenery.
The trail is mostly shaded by palm trees and flowering bushes, providing a comfortable walking experience even on sunny days. The shade is a welcome relief, especially during the warmer months, and it makes the walk even more enjoyable.
Overall, the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail is an amazing spot for a relaxing walk with beautiful views, a hidden swing, and a charming bridge.
8. Potato Chip Rock
Mt. Woodson, aka Potato Chip Rock, is one of San Diego's iconic hikes that's definitely worth the effort.
The trail, which is moderate in difficulty, leads you to the famous Potato Chip Rock—a thin, jutting rock that looks like a giant potato chip.
You can take some unique perspective shots that make it look like you’re standing on the edge of a very thin cliff, and then take a nice stroll back to your car.
For more detailed information about Potato Chip Rock check out my blog post dedicated to the hike:
Hiking to Mt Woodson (Potato Chip Rock) in San Diego
Getting here
There are 2 trails to get to the top.
Mount Woodson Trail via Lake Poway Trail
Mileage: 7.3 miles round trip
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3-4 hours
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 2,129 ft
AllTrails: Mount Woodson Summit Via Poway Rec Area
Start the trail to Mt. Woodson's summit in Poway, circling Lake Poway before heading up the western ridge. Despite the longer route and paid weekend parking for non-residents, the lake views and gentler ascent are worth it. Follow the Sumac or Lake Poway Trail from the parking lot, then merge onto the Mount Woodson Trail for a steep 3.5-mile hike.
As you near the top, look for the iconic Potato Chip Rock on your left. Enjoy various rock formations, Lake Poway views, and distant Pacific Ocean glimpses. At the summit, take in the scenic views before heading back the way you came.
See my full breakdown of this hike:
Hiking to Mt Woodson (Potato Chip Rock) in San Diego
A well marked trailhead off of route 67.
Mount Woodson Trail via Highway 67
Mileage: 4.1 miles round trip
Trail type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2-3 hours
Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Elevation Gain: 1,220 ft
AllTrails: Mount Woodson summit via Route 67
Mount Woodson Trail via Route 67 in Ramona is the fastest route to the summit, featuring a steep, switchbacked approach. This paved fire road offers views of Palomar Mountain, the Pacific Ocean, and Downtown San Diego on clear days. After reaching the summit, head back down 0.2 miles to see the famous Potato Chip Rock. Parking is free, but can fill up on weekends, so arrive early. Enjoy spectacular views and don't miss the quirky rock formations along the way.
See my full breakdown of this hike:
Hiking to Mt Woodson (Potato Chip Rock) in San Diego
9. Mission Beach Boardwalk
The Mission Beach Boardwalk in San Diego is a casual but beautiful paved walkway along the sandy shores of Mission Beach. This flat, easy path is perfect for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride, stretching about two miles from the north end at Pacific Beach down to the jetty at South Mission Beach.
Getting Here
You can park at Belmont park and access the paved path right by the entrance to the park.
Once you find parking, simply follow the paved boardwalk all the way to Pacific Beach, soaking in the ocean views and unique stores and houses along the way. You can go all the way to the Pacific Beach pier, or you can turn around if you get tired. Somewhere along the way feel free to stop along the beach and read a few chapters as you relax before finishing the walk.
This is a great casual walk along a flat boardwalk right beside the beach, perfect for a relaxing summer time stroll.
Tips on Crowds
All of the walking trails that we mentioned above are the best in the city, which means they’re very popular and busy. I suggest starting these trails early, and consider making time to go on a weekday. The weekdays can still be busy, but often not as busy as the weekends.
What Time of Year to go Walking
While there are pros and cons of each season, I think the best time to go walking or hiking in San Diego is the winter.
Trails at Mission Trails and Mount Woodson in particular are more enjoyable during the cooler months as the trails offer little to no shade.
During the summer I enjoy doing coastal hikes such as Torrey Pines and La Jolla, that way I can jump in the ocean at the end of the adventure.
So what season to check out each of these walking areas depends on what experience you’d like and what trail you’re interested in.
What to Pack for a Walk or Hike
You’ll want to come prepared to your walk or hike in San Diego by wearing comfortable shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots, and bring plenty of water! It’s better to have water and not need it than be thirsty on the trail.
You may also want to pack a snack or two for the journey, and you’ll need a backpack for all of this to go in. It may not be a bad idea to bring along some sunscreen as well as a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself against the sun.
Walking or Hiking Solo
The places that I have listed above are all great places to adventure solo, with a few named exceptions such as the sea cave at Sunset Cliffs. These are great low risk places to practice having solo adventures, preparing you for harder hikes in the future.
That’s everything there is to know about the 9 best San Diego walking trails!
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Other blog posts you may like:
Best Walking Trails in Balboa Park San Diego
Best Winter Hikes in San Diego County: Beaches and Mountains
Best Lunches and Snacks to Pack for Hiking
