To a degree, you haven’t witnessed our city until you’ve seen all its nature’s beauty. From the highest point in county to the La Jolla Tide Pools and peeks at the Pacific from above your handlebars, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside in the New Year. Go on, now—take a hike!
1. Oakoasis Open Space Preserve
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
Ocean views are few on this flat and smooth trail. But the inland trek has perks, too, like a shady oak grove for a relaxing break.
2. Father Junipero Serra Trail
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
A paved trail means many forms of moving—running, biking, or walking. Keep in mind that the latter will lend the best lens for taking in the rolling green hills and red-rock cliffs.
3. Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
This dirt stretch is short and sweet at 2.5 miles, but offers all the best parts of Imperial Beach, from ocean to Mexico views and one of the best brunches in the city at SEA180.
4. Carlsbad Coastal Trail
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
No registration fees are required for this trail that covers a portion the Carlsbad Marathon race route. Another freebie? Endless ocean breeze.
5. Bayshore Bikeway
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
It might be tough to accomplish this 24-mile trek without making a pit stop along the way. Thankfully, there’s many to choose from, including for brews, coffee, and bay views.
6. La Jolla Tide Pools
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
This 4-mile trail is quintessential California, running along the beach past Scripps Pier and with rocks and sea creatures in view.
7. SR 15 Commuter Bikeway
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
San Diego’s newest bike route is a one-size-fits-all kind of quest. Its 1-mile stretch connects Kensington to Mission Valley, but provides options to ride on to the ocean, if you please.
8. Santa Ysabel West Preserve
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
Great for groups, this 5.5-mile trip is so simple that cows can do it—seriously, you’ll see them grazing by the creek.
9. Hot Springs Mountain
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
The high point of this challenging hike is views from the highest point in the county.
10. Liberty Station Trails
10 San Diego Trails to Get You Outside in 2018
Think you know Liberty Station? Think again when you navigate its winding dirt trails, with the ultimate reward at the finish line—eateries galore at Liberty Public Market.
