Best Hikes in San Diego This Spring

Spring time in San Diego is a beautiful time of year. The weather is mild, the sun is shining, and the flowers are in full bloom. Take advantage of this glorious time of year by heading out for a hike on one of San Diego’s many trails. Here is a list of our top 5 hikes around the county.

Torrey Pines State Park

With scenic ocean views and diverse terrain, what’s not to love about Torrey Pines? This time of year, you may also spot Gray Whales and dolphins off the coast. If you want to enjoy this picturesque hike, be sure to go early in the day. The lots can fill up quickly and there is a fee to park.

Trail length: – 1-2 miles depending on trail

Difficulty: Easy

Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail

This trail is great for hikers of all ages and abilities. Right in the heart of Mira Mesa, you will feel like you’ve entered a serene, tranquil world with impressive natural sites. Waterfalls flow and streams bubble by year-round. Just be careful after it rains as this trail can become impressively muddy.

Trail length: 4.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Mission Trails Regional Park: Oak Canyon Trail

While Mission Trails boasts an impressive number of trails, more than 40 miles of trails in all, Oak Canyon Trail is one of our favorites. This trail offers a shaded path along a babbling stream into a canyon. The trailhead is located near the visitors center accessible from the Old Mission Dam parking lot.

Length: 3 miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Iron Mountain

Located in Poway, this boulder-lined trail is good for most hiking levels. It starts out flat but gradually climbs to panoramic vistas of San Diego. In warmer months, be sure to pack your hat and sunscreen as the majority of this hike is exposed.

Length: 5.8 miles

Level: Moderate to difficult

Three Sisters Falls Trail

Don’t let the gradual downward slope fool you in the beginning, this trail is not for the faint of heart. Three sisters is one of the most challenging hikes in the San Diego area. Part of the trail is accessible by rappelling down ropes and some bouldering experience comes in handy. But the waterfalls at the bottom are worth the effort. Cool off in the pools provided by the spectacular falls before you make your way back up to the top.

Length: 4 miles

Difficulty: Extremely hard

Question: Where is your favorite place to hike?