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Hiking Torrey Pines

San Diego, California

4.7/5
based on 18 reviews

Details

Distance

5.5 miles

Elevation Gain

300 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Grant

Torrey Pines is one of the most scenic and iconic spots to day hike in San Diego. Ocean views, access to the beach and a killer hill all included. With different lengths of hikes, you can make this is easy or hard as you want.

The beach trail brings you from the parking lot across the lodge from the bluff down to the beach. You can choose to visit the Red Butte, the Razor Point, and the Yucca Point trails along the way. Of the other trails, this trail seems to provide a complete walkthrough of geological features; it also provides a gradual descent down to the beach suitable for children.

Warning: do not walk too close to the cliff -- rock and sand fall is possible due to wind and water erosion. This terrain is unshaded from sun and unshielded from wind.

The Flora and fauna here are great for photography and binoculars may help while looking for dolphins from the Razor or Yucca Points.

For a longer loop, you have the option to return via the broken hill trail to either the north fork or the south fork trail and then a paved road, adding around 2 miles to the trip. You can also walk along the beach to get back to the park entrance.

The Natural Reserve is open from 7:15 am until sunset. Check the parks.ca.gov website for more info.

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Features

Fitness
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic

Hiking Torrey Pines Reviews

This was a highlight of a recent trip to SD. Between the trees, the bluffs, and the ocean it made for an amazing day hiking the trails.

This hike holds a special place in my heart. Gorgeous scenery!

Beautiful views, definitely recommend walking along the beach to do the full circle at Torrey Pines. There are many lookout points, if you have time explore them all! Parking is $20, so be prepared for that!

A very popular trail! The scenery along the way makes you forgot there’s a highway not too far. Free street parking before entering a nearby golf course. This adds a smidge of a mile to the hike if you park near the golf course. Great trail to take for a picnic on the beach!

Great hike for an intermediate fitness level, very populated but still can enjoy the views of the beach and waves. Recommend traveling all the trails, many different outlooks!

Easy and pretty trail system. Go early to avoid crowds of tourists as well as the hassle of parking.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hiking the Guy Fleming Trail

Hike the Beach Trail at Torrey Pines State Reserve

Hike Razor Point, Beach Trail, & Broken Hill Trail Loop

Hike to Black's Beach via the Gliderport

Visit Torrey Pines Gliderport

Watch the Sunset at Sunset Seat in Del Mar