Category Archives: Beginner Hikes

William Heise County Park

Home of one the of most scenic campgrounds in San Diego, William Heise has a number of camp-accessible trails in a variety of landscapes. Mountains, woods, desert-- there’s a trail for every taste.
Trail Distance: 3 Miles   Difficulty: 4   Scenery: 7   Map Info: 5

Volcan Mountain

We love hiking in the Julian area because it offers a change of scene from local chaparral. Volcan Mountain does not disappoint with conifer forests and desert to ocean views.
Trail Distance: 3.2 Miles   Difficulty: 6   Scenery: 9   Map Info: 3

Torrey Pines State Reserve

After the steep climb to the trailhead, it’s all downhill from there. Which is good, because you’re going to want to focus on the scenery as much as possible.
Trail Distance: 5.6 Miles   Difficulty: 6   Scenery: 9   Map Info: 8

Sunset Cliffs

Sunset Cliffs gets its name from the brilliant colors the cliffs and ocean turn at sunset. A mild hike with stunning vistas and family-friendly tide pools, this is a crowd favorite.
Trail Distance: 3.7 Miles   Difficulty: 3   Scenery: 10   Map Info: 8

Santa Margarita Trail

This loop follows San Diego’s last wild river, so you’ll be treated to wildlife and shade. Though the trail itself is flat, it is SANDY, so be prepared for a workout and possible knee-high river crossings.
Trail Distance: 6.2 Miles   Difficulty: 6   Scenery: 8   Map Info: 7

Roberts Ranch Trail

Unlike many trails in San Diego, those of Roberts Ranch are not always clearly marked. Great if you’re looking to explore the area some; not if you like to know where you’re going at all times.
Trail Distance: 2-20 Miles   Difficulty: 3   Scenery: 8   Map Info: 5

Lake Poway Loop

Most people come to Lake Poway for the trails that branch from it (Mt. Woodson, Blue Sky), but the loop itself still has plenty of gorgeous views. A gentle beginning hike.
Trail Distance: 2.9 Miles   Difficulty: 6   Scenery: 7   Map Info: 7

Piedras Pintadas

Piedras Pintadas means “painted rocks”, which is indicative of the painting and functional use of the boulders by local historical natives. On Lake Hodges, this trail is great for birdwatching.
Trail Distance: 3.8 Miles   Difficulty: 3   Scenery: 8   Map Info: 5

Palm Canyon Trail

The most popular hike in the Anza-Borrego State Park (be prepared for more foot traffic than on other trails in the park) it’s the home of one of the CA’s last natural oases. This trail is kid-friendly and treat hikers to waterfalls and shade in the scorching desert.
Trail Distance: 3 Miles   Difficulty: 3   Scenery: 10   Map Info: 4

Pacific Crest Trail

This monster of a trail stretches from Canada to Mexico. For a shorter trip, the Laguna Mountain Ridge skirts the boulder filled mountains to the west and Anza-Borrego Desert to the east.
Trail Distance: 6.46 Miles   Difficulty: 3   Scenery: 6   Map Info: 1