The Hauser Canyon Trail hike takes you along a section of the PCT south of Lake Morena and past Morena Butte. Most of the trail is well traveled, though in the lower portion of the hike, within the canyon, the trail can get overgrown and difficult to follow. There are a number of interesting sights alon…
San Diego Hiking Trails
Horsethief Canyon Trail
Horsethief Canyon Trail is a quick, family friendly out and back waterfall hike just outside of Alpine, Ca. The trail starts with a quick descent into the canyon before stopping at the Pine Valley Creek crossing. During the wet months, from late fall through spring, the creek flows with crystal clea…
Iron Mountain
The “short trail” up Iron Mountain is a family friendly hike that will leave you invigorated and inspired. Get started early to beat the crowds, bring plenty of water, and you are certain to embark on a hike that you won’t soon forget.
Iron Mountain trail info.
- Distance: 6.4 miles (one way)
- Hiking time
Kwaay Paay Peak
Kwaay Paay Peak Trail in Mission Trails Regional Park is a short, out and back hike that will leave you breathless, both on the hike up and from the view once you reach the top. Not for the faint of heart, this trail is steep, rough and tough. Wear a rugged pair of hiking shoes and prepare yourself for a quic…
Lawson Peak
The hike along the fire road leading to Lawson Peak is really just the price of admission. The real adventure begins when you reach the base of the peak and begin your scramble for the summit. If it’s a challenge you’re looking for, it’s a challenge you’ll find at Lawson Peak
Lawson Peak tr
…Los Penasquitos Canyon East Approach
Located in the heart of San Diego, the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve is easily accessible from the 805, 15 and 56 freeways. The main feature of the canyon trail is Penasquitos Creek, which runs the length of the preserve. Hikers can find a secluded spot with a seasonal waterfall located just a littl…
McGinty Mountain
McGinty Mountain is part of San Diego’s 11,000+ acre National Wildlife Refuge and is home to some of the rarest plant species in the county. Despite having a relatively low peak elevation (2183 ft.) in comparison to some of its neighboring peaks, like Lawson and Gaskill Peaks, the panoramic views fr…
Middle Peak
The hike up Middle Peak in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is like walking through a history lesson of San Diego County’s wildfires. In 2003, the Cedar Fire decimated the park’s population of centuries old sugar pine trees. The effects of the destruction are still clearly visible along ev…
Mt. Woodson & Potato Chip Rock
Potato Chip Rock, resting near the 2894 ft. summit of Mt. Woodson, attracts people from around the world. It has a celebrity-like status among visiting hikers due to the massive amount of attention it has received in social media over the last few years. Everyone wants a picture taken of them standin…
Noble Canyon Trail in the Laguna Mountains East of San Diego
The Noble Canyon Trail is located in the beautiful Laguna Mountains. Known for its steep and rugged terrain, this trail is a favorite among hikers looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. The Penny Pines trailhead is located just off the Sunrise Highway. The hike may take between 5 and 8 h…