Best Hikes in San Diego: Your Trail Guide to Coastal Walks, Mountain Climbs, and More

A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this reserve serves up coastal magic with every step. The Torrey Pines Hike San Diego features rare Torrey pine trees, sandstone cliffs that look straight out of a nature documentary, and panoramic ocean views that feel like a reward for even the easiest trails.

Guy Fleming Trail is short but mighty, offering two jaw-dropping overlooks and spring wildflowers that know how to put on a show. Parking fills up fast on weekends, so go early or embrace the chaos.

Keep in mind: dogs aren’t allowed here, and neither are beach shortcuts through fragile cliffs (yes, people still try). Bonus points if you catch dolphins playing in the surf down below.

Ever walked along a cliff’s edge with the ocean roaring below? That’s the whole vibe at Sunset Cliffs, one of the most scenic hikes in San Diego that requires almost no effort for maximum payoff.

The Sunset Cliffs trail is under a mile, flat, and dog-friendly—ideal for a slow stroll with a latte in hand or an after-dinner leg stretch. Sea caves, dramatic drop-offs, and maybe the most Instagrammed sunsets in the county make this a no-brainer.

It’s also wildly popular for proposals, so if you see someone down on one knee, act surprised. Heads up: no guardrails, so keep kids and pets in check.

This one’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of trail, with paths that wind past waterfalls, shaded creek crossings, and even volcanic rock formations. Among San Diego area hikes, this preserve is a top pick for families and casual walkers who want some nature without the sweat.

The trail can stretch up to 6.8 miles, but it’s flat and friendly—no climbing gear (or regret) required. You’ll pass cyclists, joggers, and the occasional lizard sunbathing like it owns the place.

Pack water and bug spray, especially in warmer months. And yes, there’s a waterfall—but it’s more of a charming trickle than a raging cascade.

Claustrophobic? Maybe skip this one. But if you’re cool with tight spaces and a little ladder climb, Annie’s Canyon is one of the most unique hikes San Diego has up its sleeve.

Located in Solana Beach, this trail cuts through a slot canyon with walls so narrow your shoulders might brush the sandstone. The full route is only about 1.3 miles, but it packs the adventure of a much longer trek.

It’s kid-friendly, but note: dogs aren’t allowed in the canyon section. Go early for fewer crowds—and better photo ops in that golden, glowy morning light.

Want bragging rights? Conquer Cowles Mountain, the highest peak in the city and one of the most popular San Diego hikes for a reason.

It’s a solid 3-mile roundtrip with steady elevation gain that’ll definitely earn you that post-hike breakfast burrito. The trail is well-maintained and busy, especially on weekends, so expect a friendly parade of fitness enthusiasts and overly ambitious first-timers.

At the summit, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of downtown San Diego, Mexico, and even the ocean on clear days. Bring water, good shoes, and patience—both for the incline and the selfie crowd at the top.

City hikes don’t get better than this. The best hikes in San Diego aren’t always rugged—Balboa Park proves you can get your steps in while strolling past museums, fountains, and rose gardens.

With over 60 miles of trails to choose from (including the Seven Bridge Walk), this is the ideal blend of culture and cardio. It’s scenic, shaded in spots, and surprisingly peaceful once you move away from the zoo area.

Great for families, dog walkers, or anyone who wants a nature-meets-architecture vibe. Come for the walk, stay for the food trucks and people-watching.

With over 65 miles of trails, this park is a full-blown hiking buffet. It’s home to some of the best hikes in San Diego, including everything from creekside strolls to quad-burning mountain ascents.

Cowles Mountain is part of it, but there’s so much more—like Fortuna Mountain, Oak Canyon, and the serene Old Mission Dam loop. The variety here makes it great for beginners and hardcore hikers alike.

It’s wild enough to forget you’re minutes from the city, but still packed with helpful signage and decent cell service. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and your “I can totally do this” attitude.