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San Diego County, California

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

Top Running Spots in and near San Diego County

  • Jamul, California

    Hike the Hollenbeck Canyon Trail

    4.6 mi / 626 ft gain
    The 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 ...
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  • Chula Vista, California

    Hike Mother Miguel Mountain

    5.0
    4.5 mi / 977 ft gain
    At 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...
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  • Campo, California

    Kitchen Creek Falls Trail

    4.0
    4.83 mi / 722 ft gain
    Kitchen Creek Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Pine Valley, California.
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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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  • San Diego, California

    Hike to the beach at Border Field State Park

    2 mi / 26 ft gain
    The beach at Border Field State Park is southernmost beach in California. This beach begins (on US Maps) at the Mexican border and continues north to the mouth of the Tijuana River. The State Park shares its land with the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve which are both operated b...
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  • Imperial Beach, California

    Catch a Sunset at the Imperial Beach Pier

    5.0
    From 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 ...
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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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  • Mount Laguna, California

    Red Trail Roost and Agua Dulce Trail Loop

    4.0
    4.63 mi / 591 ft gain
    Red Trail Roost and Agua Dulce Trail Loop is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Julian, California.
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  • San Diego, California

    South Fortuna Mountain

    5.0
    4.59 mi / 997 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 creeps into the canyons. South Fortuna Peak is part of Miss...
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  • San Diego County, California

    Big Laguna Lake Loop

    5.0
    5.9 mi / 400 ft gain
    Big Laguna Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Pine Valley, California.
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  • San Diego County, California

    Hike Garnet Peak Trail

    3.0
    2.6 mi / 500 ft gain
    While 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...
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  • San Diego, California

    Balboa Park Loop

    4.6
    4.34 mi / 226 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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  • 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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  • Coronado, California

    Coronado Beach

    4.6
    Photograph the iconic and historic Hotel Del and Coronado Beach on Coronado Island. The Del is a beautiful Victorian resort, which is the second-largest wooden structure in the United States. The Del offers amazing photo opportunities during sunset and during sunrise when it is beautifully backli...
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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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  • San Diego, California

    Explore Cabrillo National Monument

    4.5
    Cabrillo 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...
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