Palomar Mountain, California
Palomar Mountain, California, is a must-visit destination for outdoor adventurers. The area is home to some of the best trails and activities in the region, offering scenic views and adventures. Popular attractions include Palomar Observatory, the Palomar Mountain State Park, and the Doane Valley Campground. Whether you’re looking for a hike, a picnic, or a campground, Palomar Mountain has something for everyone. So go out and explore this top outdoor getaway.
Top Spots in and near Palomar Mountain
-
San Diego, California
Harper's Topiary Garden
Harper's Topiary Garden in San Diego's Mission Hills neighborhood is a whimsical front yard transformation by Edna and Alex Harper. 15 years ago, the Harpers decided to create an enchanting topiary garden for everyone to enjoy. Unlike typical topiaries shaped around wire frames, Edna's sculpture...Read more -
San Diego, California
Climb the Famous California Balboa Bell Tower
5.0This tour allows you to climb up the iconic landmark of Balboa Park. It has never been open to the public to climb until January 2014. An easy seven floor climb brings you to a beautiful viewing deck. From the top of the tower you'll be able to see the glimpses of the San Diego Zoo, the Cuyamaca ...Read more -
San Diego, California
Spreckels Organ Outdoor Pavilion
The Spreckels Organ Pavilion in San Diego, California, is home to the world's largest outdoor organ, played weekly by one of only two civic organists in the U.S. Visitors can enjoy free one-hour Sunday concerts at 2 p.m., rain or shine, performed by San Diego’s civic organist. For evening or spec...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 -
Campo, California
Kitchen Creek Falls Trail
4.04.83 mi / 722 ft gainKitchen Creek Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Pine Valley, California.Read more -
Borrego Springs, California
Off-Road through Split Mountain in Anza Borrego
4.011 mi / 0 ft gainFor all you desert lovers- this is a must. Or for all you SD residents that want to try something new and take a break from the populated trails within the county- spend a day in Anza Borrego and include this on your list.This state park is just a quick jaunt outside of the town of Julian. This m...Read more -
San Diego, California
Ocean Beach Dog Beach
5.0Ocean Beach Dog Beach is considered "The Original Dog Beach" and one of the first leash-free dog beaches in the U.S., according to city's website. There's something really magical about being at a beach during sunset, and even up to an hour after sunset can still cast beautiful light on the wat...Read more -
San Diego County, California
Hiking the Laguna Hills via the PCT
5.020 mi / 2000 ft gainThis trail is well-maintained, but gets a little rocky on the PCT, and the Chariot Fire burn-zone between Penny Pines and Hayes peak will have a few downed trees and some overgrown grasses. On the other hand, the trail network of the BLT is confusing to follow as the entire network is named "Big ...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 County, California
Exploring Anza Borrego's Wind Caves
4.8The drive to the caves is pretty lengthy, so be prepared.First you will drive through Anza Borrego State Park on Highway 78, then on a Split Mountain road which eventually turns into gravel road, and you need to look out for the entrance to the wash-road (which if you like to off road, is a perfe...Read more -
San Diego, California
Run the Convention Center Stairs
4.8This 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 ...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 -
Forest Falls, California
Summit Mt. San Gorgonio
4.717 mi / 5840 ft gainA hiking permit is required to hike in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. Apply for the permit early as the Vivian Creek Trail is the second most popular trailhead for the area and quotas fill up in advance. The permits are free and the entire process can be handled via fax or mail. All the information...Read more -
San Diego County, California
Hike to Mountain Palm Springs, Anza Borrego SP
3 mi / 350 ft gainAt first glance the Anza-Borrego desert appears lifeless, a wasteland of rocky plain peaks rising up from Carrizo Plains covered in Cholla cactus and Ocotillo. But one of the surprises is a mirage of California fan palm groves hidden in a series of canyons.The Mountain Palm Springs oasis loop is ...Read more -
Forest Falls, California
Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Peak
17.83 mi / 5627 ft gainVivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Peak is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Forest Falls, California.Read more -
Coronado, California
Explore Bayview Park
5.0Even though I am quite familiar with this spot, I doubt that most San Diegans have sat in the benches at this little park to take in the sunset, sunrise, or spectacular views of downtown San Diego. I'm absolutely positive that most out-of-towners have no idea that this little gem exists. I want t...Read more
