The Best Hikes In San Diego

San Diego should entice any hikers or outdoor enthusiast. Not only does the great weather year round keep you moving, but you can explore forests, mountains, deserts and coasts all in one day.

Check out these hikes in San Diego and see why it's easy to fall in love with this place.

Urban and Local Hikes

San Diego's urban areas are one of the most underrated places to hike. With beautiful canyons and parks, you can find a great hike without having to leave the city.

San Diego City Canyons

Find some great hiking in San Diego's beautiful canyons.

Maple Canyon Trail

A natural canyon between two great neighborhoods.

South Fortuna Trail At Mission Trails

Hike to the peak for sunrise and sunset views (not at the same time)

Father Junipero Serra Trail

A stunningly beautiful walk right in the heart of San Diego County

Coastal Hikes

With steep cliffs and canyons, the pacific coastline of San Diego offer miles of stunning trails and vistas overlooking the ocean. So if you're not feeling the volleyball or surf that day, take a hike on one of the coastal trails in San Diego.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Blustery cliffs and wind-swept pines overlooking the coast

Torrey Pines State Beach

Open stretch of natural coastline with a inlet for the kids

Cabrillo National Monument

Walk the cliffs and search for the elusive nudibranch at the oldest (European) site in California

Mountain Hikes

Often a shock to newcomers or visitors, San Diego is filled with cliffs, canyons, and has epic mountains just 30 minutes outside the city. So if you're not a beach bum, take advantage of the epic peaks and forests around San Diego and get your hike on.

Mount Laguna Recreation Area

Camping hiking and snow just east of San Diego

Desert Hikes

One of the best places for hiking is in San Diego's deserts. Under 90 minutes from San Diego, the deserts out East are some of the most exciting and dramatic landscapes around. Summer is to be avoided due to the extreme heat, but winter and spring are ideal times to find cool weather perfect for desert hiking.