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Escondido, California

Looking for the best running in Escondido? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Escondido. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Escondido

  • Escondido, California

    Hike Bernardo Mountain Summit Trail

    5.0
    7.36 mi / 1150 ft gain
    Bernardo Mountain is located on the Coast to Crest Trail in San Dieguito River Park.The 7.36 mile out-and-back trail to the 1150 ft. summit starts on the east side of I-15. It's a relatively easy hike all the way to the top. It picks up a little once you make it to the Summit Trail junction, wher...
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike to Battle Mountain's Cross

    5.0
    0.42 mi / 803 ft gain
    When it comes to Rancho Bernardo, most people overlook this "mountain" because of its size compared to Mule Hill and other neighboring peaks. The trailhead begins between two residential houses but is fairly easy to find and tackle in less than an hour. This hike is more of a steep walk that can ...
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike Miner's Ridge Loop Trail to Black Mountain Peak

    2.5
    The Miner's Ridge Loop Trail is relatively mild 4.5 mile out-and-back loop that takes you to the 1554 foot summit of Black Mountain Peak.Even from the parking lot, the views to the east are stunning. Get there early in the morning on a clear day, or arrive just before sunset to get the full exper...
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  • Encinitas, California

    Grandview Beach

    5.0
    3 mi
    Grandview Beach is a great spot for surfing when conditions line up (see Surfline). it's also an ideal spot to kick back and relax (bring your whole fam, dogs too).  If you're looking for a little fitness, you can start at either Grandview Beach and head south along the beach to the San Elijo la...
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike the Beach Trail at Torrey Pines State Reserve

    5.0
    2 mi / 364 ft gain
    I'm stoked for those of you to find this adventure! Torrey Pines is home to a species of tree that is one of the most rare native pines in the United States. Below I have directions on how to get to the trail head as well as the parking lot to park for the hike. There is a charge to get into the...
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  • Oceanside, California

    Bike or Skate the Strand

    4.0
    1 mi / 0 ft gain
    Oceanside's iconic Strand is a 1 mile long ocean-front road that is perfect for cycling, walking, and running. At various points it is one way or pedestrian only, and is a must-do for any visitors to Oceanside.From the north The Strand begins at Breakwater Way and heads south underneath The Ocean...
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike the Rose Canyon Trail

    3.5
    8.9 mi / 725 ft gain
    This hike is open year-round but is especially beautiful in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming and the spring is running. This trail offers good entry level mountain biking, with mostly flat well maintained trails and a couple of challenging but doable hills. 
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike to South Fortuna Peak

    5.0
    5 mi / 1000 ft gain
    Hiking at sunset/night is a great way to beat both the heat and the crowds. On a clear day you can see from Mexico to Catalina Island! If you stay long enough, you can see all of San Diego's city lights turn on, or the marine layer fog creep into the canyons.South Fortuna Peak is part of Mission ...
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  • San Diego, California

    Visitor Center Loop Trail

    5.0
    1.46 mi / 148 ft gain
    The Visitor Center Loop Trail is a 1.4 mile hike in San Diego that features river views and allows dogs.The Visitor Center Loop Trail is a well maintained, quick hike with shady spots scattered along the path and open year-round. This trail is great for kids and dog owners. There is a great netwo...
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  • San Diego, California

    Pyles Peak

    5.0
    6.03 mi / 1706 ft gain
    Most people who live in San Diego have heard of, if not hiked, Cowles Mountain. At 1591 ft., Cowles is the highest peak in the city of San Diego. It's a hugely popular destination for day hikers and trail runners looking to get in a little trail time and take in the 360 degree views the summit h...
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  • Santa Ysabel, California

    Hiking in Santa Ysabel

    3.0
    Starting at the trailhead on Hwy 79, enter through the gate and make sure to close it behind you - the preserve is open range area for herds of cows, make sure not to disturb them when hiking. From the gate you'll see the sign with a detailed map of trails that are available for hiking. The trail...
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike to the Rope Swing in Tecolote Canyon

    4.0
    4.4 mi
    Tecolote Canyon offers a great opportunity to explore nature right in the heart of San Diego, whether it is a hike, run, or bike ride on the trails.  But the best kept secret is perhaps a rope swing over the creek! The main trail starts off at Tecolote Canyon Natural Park & Nature Center, wh...
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  • Aguanga, California

    Vail Lake Loop

    4.0
    7.25 mi / 922 ft gain
    Vail Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Temecula, California.
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  • San Diego, California

    Hike the Balboa Park Trails

    4.6
    4.3 mi / 459 ft gain
    The Balboa Park Trail offers the chance to see wildlife and is open year-round. The trail is shared by runners, families, hikers, and bikers. Dogs are able to use the trail but must be kept on leash. There is a dog park you will pass by. 
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  • Warner Springs, California

    Eagle Rock via the Pacific Crest Trail

    5.0
    6.2 mi / 807 ft gain
    With doing more hikes in the SoCal area, I've realized half the battle is just trying to find the damn trailhead.Technically you have 2 ways to enter this trail ... Start from 79 and add a very enjoyable extra 3ish miles, or start from the Warner Springs Fire Station, for a total 7 mile hike.We c...
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  • San Diego, California

    Run the Convention Center Stairs

    4.8
    This is a great spot to get in a workout and to get some fresh air. The stairs are around 100 steps to the top, so if you're feeling good, you can get a few rounds in. In terms of safety, there are usually people around the convention center, so you most likely won't be alone. With that said, be ...
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