Annie’s Canyon Trailhead
Solana Beach, California
Details
Distance
2 miles
Elevation Gain
100 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Jussi Oksanen
Awesome short and easy hike. A fun place to explore with the whole family -- even the littlest kids -- and a great spot to watch the sun set!
If you're looking for a super short hike, this 10 minute flat walk couldn't be more ideal. Start at 840 N Rios Avenue, Solana beach and walk east towards the FWY 5 where you will see Annie’s Canyon on your right. There is only one way to go up the canyons and it gets pretty tight in places, but you'll discover some cool little hideaway spots along the way.
You'll notice a few trails going up the walls, but be aware that while they are fairly mellow heading up, coming down is a different story. And remember: it’s sand! It can get really slippery at times which is not ideal when you find yourself 30 foot high...
At the top of the canyons you will find some stairs that lead to the top. From there you get an amazing view of the canyons and the San Elijo Lagoon. It's the perfect place to take some snacks while watching the sun set over the ocean. Just remember to take your trash with you!
Download the Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
Reviews
Super unique rock/cliff formations & an awesome view over the lagoon and out to the ocean at the top! Avoid when the trail might be wet/during rainy weather (hardly ever in SD anyways). Usually not too busy & super doable as an after work / weekday evening hike!
5.0
You start on the Rios Trail and end up over at Annie’s Canyon Trail. It splits into “View Point- moderate” (stairs) and the “One Way Loop- strenuous” (canyon). The canyon trail is definitely tight and a bit hard at points, but super fun and worth it. There were kids and toddlers going through the canyons with ease as well! There is a ladder at the end that you must climb to the top, but it is not difficult for adults or even children. The hike is generally flat/slightly downhill for .6 miles, until you get to the fork in the trail for the canyons and stairs. The stairs take you up to the top of the view point, which is also where the canyon loop leads as well. There were plenty of trees and brush which provided a great amount of shade along the Rios Trail. It was beautiful hiking along the lagoon and seeing it from the top of the view point! We all had fun and definitely recommend it.
5.0
We did this hike on a Saturday. So parking was a little challenging as it’s street parking in a residential area. I did this with a three year old on foot and a toddler in carrier on my back. There were so precarious moments as far as tightness goes. But it was a great time!
4.0
Great getaway for a needed adventure very easy yet "strenuous"!
5.0
When I first read about the mushroom caves I had no idea what to expect. I knew I was going to be taking my 4 year old so I figured it was gonna be pretty mellow. This place is rad! We actually ended going two days in a row and my little girl did the canyon loop 5 TIMES! It's best to go on a weekday as Sunday was really crowded. Highly recommended and will definitely be going back!
5.0
Short easy hike great for families, small children, and dogs. Highly recommend exploring the slot canyon area.
4.0
This was a fun hike which I enjoyed with my family and we had a great time. I had some problems though, one, we weren't sure we were allowed on the no trespassing trail, as there were many warning signs, and second, these weren't really caves, all in all, still a great hike!
4.0
This place will keep you entertained all day and then some! Beautiful views from top to bottom!
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
San Elijo State Beach Campground
Watch the Sunset at Sunset Seat in Del Mar
Photograph Surfers at Beacons Beach
Hiking Torrey Pines
Run Grandview Beach
Hiking the Guy Fleming Trail
Community
Mobile Apps
© 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy