Outbound Collective logo

Ramona, California

Ramona, California is a great place for outdoor adventurers! With its scenic trails, rolling hills, and great weather, there are plenty of activities and attractions to explore. For those looking for a memorable visit, there are plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and running. The area is also known for its great camping spots, and there are many areas to explore with family and friends. For a unique experience, visitors can also take advantage of the local horseback riding trails. With a wealth of activities and attractions, Ramona, California is a top spot for adventurers of all kinds.

Top Spots in and near Ramona

  • San Diego, California

    Explore Chambers Hidden Dam and Waterfall

    3.2
    0.5 mi
    Once you get off on Poway road, turn right onto Sabre Springs Parkway. Take your immediate left onto Creekbridge Road and park right there on the hill. Walk straight down towards the black gate and go down the hill. Turn right on the trail and walk down 1/4 mile to the dam, and another 500 yards ...
    Read more
  • San Diego, California

    Black Mountain Peak via Miner's Ridge Loop Trail

    2.5
    4.3 mi / 951 ft gain
    The Miner's Ridge Loop Trail is a relatively mild 4.3-mile 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 experience. T...
    Read more
  • San Diego, California

    Black Mountain via Nighthawk Trail

    5.0
    4.05 mi / 764 ft gain
    Starting at the trail head at the end of Oviedo way, you will see a power line on top of the small hill across from the rec center, which is the start of the South Point View Trail. Follow this trail about a mile until you see a sign for the 'Little Black Mountain Loop' . This is a 4.1 mile loop ...
    Read more
  • Julian, California

    Volcan Mountain Trail

    4.82 mi / 1270 ft gain
    Volcan Mountain Trail located near Julian, California is a moderate day hike. This well-maintained trail offers beautiful views, but keep in mind there isn't too much sun protection, so be sure to pack plenty of water and coverage on sunnier days.  Dogs are permitted on the trail on a leash. 
    Read more
  • Escondido, California

    Lake Hodges Overlook

    4.6
    6.73 mi / 1407 ft gain
    Elfin Forest is one of the most beautiful and unique trails in all of San Diego, CA. The parking is free as well as the overflow parking area. There is an Interpretive Center located in the staging area where you can speak to park rangers, learn about the wildlife and trail locations. The parking...
    Read more
  • San Diego, California

    Los Penasquitos Canyon Loop

    3.3
    6.77 mi / 131 ft gain
    Los Penasquitos Canyon Loop After about a five minute hike on the trail you will start to enter into Los Penasquitos Canyon. Every section of the trail is different, one minute you are walking next to a stream with trees arching over the trail and another minute you are walking through an open f...
    Read more
  • Santee, California

    Cowles Mountain via Big Rock Trail

    4.0
    4.86 mi / 1207 ft gain
    Starting somewhat near sea-level, Cowles Mountain via the Big Rock Trail climbs about 1000 ft in elevation.  This trail is about 5 miles total, out and back.  Arrive at Big Rock park which has good parking.  At the park you will walk to the left of the tennis courts past the limits (the fence) of...
    Read more
  • Santee, California

    Kwaay Paay Trail

    2.4 mi / 846 ft gain
    Park your car in the small gravel parking lot at the southwest corner of Father Junipero Serra Trail and Bushy Hill Drive (this is especially important if you plan to take the sunset hike, so you'll be outside the locked park gate when you descend). There will be other hikers parked there, but I'...
    Read more
  • Santee, California

    Oak Canyon in Mission Trails Regional Park

    5.0
    3.22 mi / 249 ft gain
    Starting on Father Junipero Serra Trail, drive 0.7 miles west to the Old Mission Dam parking lot on the left. The park closes the gates at 7pm, so make sure to park early, or plan your hike in such a way that you don't get locked in! If you think you'll need longer, you can park out on the main r...
    Read more
  • Santee, California

    Crystal Cave

    4.0
    0.46 mi / 59 ft gain
    Starting at 8100 Mesa road, you will see parking along the side of the road in a few places, take advantage where you find it.  Pass over the trail gate that marks the start of the journey. This will be a quick trip, as the total distance is less than a mile out and back. Head a quarter mile or ...
    Read more
  • Santee, California

    Cowles Mountain via Big Rock Road

    4.5
    4.32 mi / 1109 ft gain
    Start by plugging 8125 Arlette St, Santee, CA into your GPS. This takes you to Big Rock Park, a convenient parking spot for the Cowles Hike. From here you want to walk through the park, and around the right side of the tennis court. This will take you to the fenced entrance to the hike. Head sout...
    Read more
  • Julian, California

    Hike Stonewall Peak

    4.7
    3.82 mi / 820 ft gain
    This 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

    4.5
    5.5 mi / 1700 ft gain
    This 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
  • San Diego, California

    Los Penasquitos Waterfall via Los Penasquitos Canyon Trailhead

    4.3
    4.15 mi / 115 ft gain
    The Los Penasquitos Preserve waterfall is a hidden gem of San Diego and a popular spot for locals within the area. The hike to the waterfall lies within a preserve of approximately 4,000 acres. There are many different trailheads that lead to the waterfall all offering a unique experience. I alwa...
    Read more
  • 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...
    Read more
  • 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...
    Read more