They say “nature is the best medicine,” and luckily, that’s more than just an old adage. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors has tons of benefits, including mental health and physical advantages.
As a San Diego resident, we’ve been blessed with plenty of opportunities to get the sun on our face nearly any time of year. For me, whenever things are not going very well, one of my best ways to cope is get outside—whether it’s a walk, run, hitting the beach, or just feeling the grass under my toes. If you’ve been feeling down lately, these are a few of my favorite hikes to improve your mood when you need a little pick-me-up.
Pyles Peak – 6 Miles
The trail from Cowles Mountain to Pyles Peak is one of my all time favorites in San Diego. Yes, you have to first navigate 1.5 miles of the very busy path to climb Cowles Mountain. But once you do, and step onto the second trail from Cowles’ summit to Pyles, it’s like you’ve instantly transported to a peaceful and solitary trail with very few hikers on it. The views are absolutely beautiful all along the way, with sweeping scenes of the ocean on a clear day. Plus the additional challenge is enough to make you feel taxed and accomplished, which can really help when things feel bad. Start at the Cowles Mountain trailhead on Golfcrest Drive and then follow the signs for Pyles Peak once you’ve reached the summit.
- Distance: 6 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Dogs: Allowed
- Details: Parking is free, and if the spots are taken in the parking lot you can park along the road. Just be sure to cramp your wheels!
La Jolla Beach Trail – 2.3 Miles
There is something therapeutic about walking right next to the ocean. The smells of salty sea air, the sounds of waves—they literally bottle this stuff and use it in spas—so getting a dose of the real thing has to be beneficial. And navigating the winding paths along La Jolla Cove is a perfect way to take it all in. Plus, there are the ever-entertaining sea lions and seals to watch if you need additional distraction. Start near the Museum of Contemporary Art La Jolla and follow the cliffside path to La Jolla Shores. There are a few different winding paths to follow, so you can make your out and back different.
- Distance: 2.3 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Allowed
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – 3.25 Miles
This desert park is a longer drive than the other suggestions, but it’s not too far—about an hour and a half one way. And the chance to roam in an open desert, or explore the slot canyons and abandoned mines of this state park make it well worth the trip. The desert landscape is devastatingly beautiful, and can give you that open mind feeling you need when things are tough. Even better when wildflowers are in bloom, but any time in the fall or winter and great for a visit. Start at the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead just past the campground and try the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, which takes you past a neat palm oasis and waterfalls.
- Distance: 3.25 miles for the loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Details: A state parks parking pass is required.
