Escondido, California
Escondido, California is full of activities and attractions that are perfect for adventurers of all kinds. From scenic trails to must-visit outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. The best trails and outdoor activities in and near Escondido include Kit Carson Park, Lake Wohlford, Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, San Dieguito River Park, and Daley Ranch. Kit Carson Park is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and other activities. Lake Wohlford offers fishing, boating, and swimming. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve is great for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. San Dieguito River Park is great for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. Lastly, Daley Ranch is great for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. With all these great activities and attractions, Escondido, California is the perfect place for all kinds of adventurers.
Top Spots in and near Escondido
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Julian, California
Hike Stonewall Peak
4.73.82 mi / 820 ft gainThis hike is one of the most popular in the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. When you reach Stonewall Peak's summit, enjoy the view of the surrounding park and nearby Lake Cuyamaca. The hike up the east side is a popular and relatively easy trail. Although you'll be gaining 800 feet, the hike is relat...Read more -
Julian, California
Hike Cuyamaca Peak
4.55.5 mi / 1700 ft gainThis peak is one of the tallest in the county. Reaching the summit of the peak takes you to an elevation of 6500'. Although this peak isn't as challenging as others nearby, it's located in the center of San Diego, which offers up amazing views, which is the main reason to take this hike. The best...Read more -
Chula Vista, California
Hike Mother Miguel Mountain
5.04.5 mi / 977 ft gainAt the summit, your work will be rewarded with stunning views from downtown San Diego all the way to Mexico. You can also see the surrounding mountain peaks and the Sweetwater Reservoir. This is a great hike to do at sunset - but bring a headlamp / flashlight for the hike back down. This trail i...Read more -
San Diego, California
Explore Cabrillo National Monument
4.5Cabrillo National Monument is named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to reach America's Wet Coast. There are many knowledgable rangers in the park who are eager to share interesting historical facts. Activities in the park include hiking: the Bayside Trail offers 2 mile...Read more -
San Diego, California
Bayside Trail
4.01.99 mi / 397 ft gainThe Bayside Trail features beautiful spring wild flowers and is accessible year-round. The trail is wide with a few rest stops and benches along the way. The trail is breezy, much cooler than many trails inland, featuring ocean views throughout the duration. This monument commemorates the landi...Read more -
San Diego, California
Point Loma Tide Pools
4.5Begin by making your way towards the Point Loma Naval Base. Continue along that road as far as it goes and you will come to the Cabrillo National Monument. Upon entering the park you will have to pay a fee to get down to the tide pools. It is $5 per car or $3 per person if you choose to walk in. ...Read more -
Descanso, California
Green Valley Falls
5.00.36 mi / 98 ft gainGreen Valley Falls is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Descanso, California.Read more -
San Clemente, California
Beach Day at San Onofre
5.0This spot is no secret but it’s by far one of the best beaches California has to offer and has been regarded since the 1950s as a friendly surfing sanctuary. The beach is divided into three surf spots (named from North to South), known as “The Point,” “Old Man’s,” and “Dogpatch.” To access the be...Read more -
Coronado, California
Spend a Day at Silver Strand State Beach
5.0A day at the Silver Strand State Beach is a must, playing in the surf and searching for seashells. Parking can be challenging, as all beaches on Coronado Island are very busy. I recommend coming early in the morning and planning to stay all day. Lots of food options are close to every beach...Read more -
Jamul, California
Hike the Hollenbeck Canyon Trail
4.6 mi / 626 ft gainThe trail is wide and well maintained. The first mile of the trail is well shaded by oak trees. You'll see stunning rocky peaks and rolling green hills as the trail continues. There are three creek crossings to be aware of. Cleveland National Forest is dog friendly, but bring a leash! Hunting is ...Read more -
Jamul, California
Hiking Otay Mountain
5.015.3 mi / 2903 ft gainThe trek begins on the Otay Mountain Truck Trail at Pio Pico Resort & Campground. You can either park and hike the entire trail, or drive up to a point a couple miles and park before the road becomes steep and rough. The distance on here is if you hiked the whole way. If you have a 4-wheel dr...Read more -
San Clemente, California
San Clemente State Beach
4.54.58 mi / 26 ft gainSan Clemente State Beach is an out-and-back trail that takes past scenic surroundings located near San Clemente, California.Read more -
Imperial Beach, California
Catch a Sunset at the Imperial Beach Pier
5.0From San Diego, head South on Hwy 5 for 12 miles. Take a right on exit 5A for Palm Ave/CA-75. Take CA-75 west for 1.6 miles. Stay on Palm Ave as it splits from CA-75. Take Palm Ave for 1 mile until it reaches the coast. Turn left on Seacoast Dr and take it for 1 mile until you reach the Imperial ...Read more -
San Diego County, California
Hike Garnet Peak Trail
3.02.6 mi / 500 ft gainWhile there are a few trail options, the designated Garnet Peak Trail begins off of Sunrise Highway at Mile Marker 27.8. There is a small pull-off on the east side of the road with a sign denoting the trail. An Adventure Pass is required for parking in this area of Cleveland National Forest.The f...Read more -
San Diego County, California
Hike Sheep Canyon
5.03 mi / 1000 ft gainSheep Canyon is probably the most remote palm canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in California. While Palm Canyon is easily accessed from the State Park campground, Sheep Canyon is on a dirt road that requires stream crossings and potentially a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The canyon is nam...Read more -
Julian, California
Blair Valley Trail
11.4 mi / 873 ft gainBlair Valley Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Julian, California.Read more
