The 5 Best Hiking Trails in San Diego County: our selection

5 ideas. Reasons to pick each one.

Compare 5 hiking ideas in San Diego County: the duration and the level, then open the trail page for the details.

See the 5 hikes

How to pick the best hiking trails for you?

Three guideposts to compare the ideas in this selection.

The experience

Outings with a good mix of moods and challenges in San Diego County.

The scenery

Panoramas, forests and remarkable natural settings.

Who it suits

Outings for different levels and moods, from a serious challenge to an easy stroll.

Our 5 hikes in San Diego County

See all trails in San Diego County

Mount Helix, California

San Diego County

1 hr 15 min Easy
See the trail page
El Capitan Reservoir

San Diego County
See the trail page
Salton Sea

San Diego County

30 min Easy
See the trail page

How to choose yours?

Mount Helix, California trail - hiking in San Diego County

By your level

Short and easy or more demanding: find a hike that suits your experience and your mood.

See all trails in San Diego County

Point Loma, California trail - hiking in San Diego County

By season

Fall colours, snowy summits, spring flowers: every season offers a different experience.

Explore all regions

Before you book your day

Access, booking, dogs and weather: check the trail page and the site manager.

See our practical tips

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a hike suits my level?

Each trail page gives the level (easy, moderate or hard) and, when it is known, the duration. Compare them with your experience, then add time for breaks and the way back.

Do some trails in San Diego County require a booking?

It depends on the site. Some trails are in parks that charge an access fee or require a booking: the trail page says so when the information is known, and the site manager's own website remains the reference.

Can I bring my dog?

The trail page says whether dogs are allowed, when the information is known. Always check the site's rules, especially about leashes.