San Diego County is more than just the beach. Southern California is a hiker's paradise, and San Diego County is no exception. With tons of trails that showcase the area's stunning natural beauty, there's something for every hiker. San Diego County is home to surprisingly many hiking trails, from coastal paths to inland climbs and everything in between. Continue Reading below as we reveal some of our favorite hikes in San Diego County.

Hikes in San Diego County

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

One of the most iconic hikes in San Diego, the Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop, offers surreal coastal views from the clifftop trail that towers over the famed Blacks Beach surf break. This 2.3-mile loop with a 357-foot elevation gain takes you through scenic overlooks like Razor Point and ends at the beach. It's moderately strenuous, so plan accordingly and check the tide schedule to avoid high tide during the beach portion of the hike.

Cowles Mountain

Cowles Mountain is a favorite among locals in Mission Trails Regional Park. The 3-mile round-trip trail takes you to the highest point in San Diego, offering panoramic views of the city, Mexico, and Orange County. This moderate hike in San Diego County is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Cedar Creek Falls

Cedar Creek Falls in Ramona is a must for waterfall lovers. Known for the Devil's Punchbowl, this trail is a 5.2-mile round trip, but it can extend to 8.5 miles if you hike to the top of the falls. This hike is challenging, so bring plenty of water and secure a permit beforehand.

Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain in Poway offers a 5.8-mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 1,057 feet. The trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean. It's moderately strenuous, with the final stretch involving switchbacks. Start early to avoid the heat, as the trail has little shade.

Black Mountain Open Space Park

Black Mountain in Rancho Peñasquitos is ideal for a mix of easy to challenging hikes. The park features several trails that wind through chaparral-covered canyons and offer 360-degree views of San Diego from the summit. It's a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts as well.

Cuyamaca Peak Loop Trail

This 6.7-mile loop in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is the second-highest peak in San Diego County. On a clear day, the trail offers spectacular views of Mexico and the Channel Islands. It's a moderate to strenuous hike, and some areas even experience snow in the winter.

El Cajon Mountain

Known for its steep inclines and strenuous trails, El Cajon Mountain offers one of the most challenging hikes in San Diego County. The multi-use trails are used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail. Due to the steep and rocky terrain, hiking poles are recommended.

Stonewall Peak

Another gem in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Stonewall Peak, features a moderate 4-mile round-trip hike. The summit offers 360-degree views and has a carved-out staircase and railings to assist hikers. This moderate hike traces a beautiful trail and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains.

Double Peak Trail

In San Marcos, the Double Peak Trail offers a moderate 4.1-mile loop with beautiful views of the ocean and inland areas. It's suitable for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. The peak also has picnic benches where hikers can rest and take in the area's natural beauty.

Lawson Peak Trail

For a bit of adventure, the Lawson Peak Trail in Cleveland National Forest involves some rock scrambling. This 4.3-mile out-and-back trail gives hikers views of Barrett Lake and is moderately challenging. It's a fun hike with a mix of gradual ascents and exciting boulder scrambles.

San Diego County's diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for coastal hikes with ocean views or challenging mountain trails, there's something here for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab some water, and hit the trails to explore the natural beauty of San Diego County. Book your stay at the Green Room Hotel in South Oceanside to start your SoCal adventure.

The Best Hikes in San Diego County