General Hike Overview:
Torrey Pines Hiking Trail is approximately a 3 mile round-trip hike in La Jolla, the heart of San Diego County. This California hiking trial is located a few blocks north of the legendary Torrey Pines golf course, home to several PGA golf tournaments. There are beautiful coastal views along the scenic hiking trial. If you are a beginner or looking for a quick escape while you are in San Diego, Torrey Pines is the ideal hike for you!
If you are visiting San Diego, Torrey Pines hiking trail is the perfect hike! It’s quickly accessible from the 5 Freeway and provides a fun outdoor activity under the California sun. There is plenty of public parking in the two lots. The hike is short, which makes it easy to visit other San Diego attractions before or after the hike. Plus, the views make for a perfect photo backdrop to share your San Diego experience with friends and family! Remember to bring your camera for pictures of the beautiful Pacific Ocean from these La Jolla cliffs.
Trail Map:
View Torrey Pines Hiking Trail in a larger map
Directions to Torrey Pines State Reserve: Why We Hiked Liked It
- From Los Angeles/Orange County:
- I-5 South towards San Diego
- Take the Del Mar Heights Rd exit
- Turn rut onto Del Mar Heights Rd
- Turn left onto S Camino Del Mar
- Continue onto N Torrey Pines Rd
- Turn right onto Torrey Pines Park Rd
- Turn left, destination will be on the right
- From San Diego:
- I-5 North towards Los Angeles
- Take Genesee Ave exit
- Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Torrey Pines State Reserve
- Turn left onto Genesse Ave
- Continue onto N. Torrey Pines Rd
- Turn left onto Torrey Pines Park Rd
- Turn left, destination will be on the right.
What to Bring:
When to Go:
- Spring/Fall (Sometimes Winter): Parking in the summer months can be challenging, because the Torrey Pines State Reserve is a popular beach destination. It can also be quite warm. If you venture to Torrey Pines during the Spring or Fall, there should be parking available either on the street or at one of the two public parking lots. Although California winters are typically moderate, you may check the weather forecast before venturing on this La Jolla hike. If it’s clear, wintertime can be perfect for this premier California hiking spot – cool and sunny!
Dog-Friendly:
- No, only service dogs allowed.
- Barry-the-Bear: “This hike is the perfect hike! It wasn’t too challenging and provided a great opportunity to try out the Strava app.”
- Larry-the-Lion: “Beautiful! Although short, this hike was the perfect start to our San Diego weekend. We enjoyed the scenic views from the bluff’s edge and relaxed at the beach afterwards.”
- Chris-the-Cheetah: “If I wasn’t visiting San Diego, I would have skipped this hike or tried to run up Torrey Pines Road. It’s too short and not very challenging. I would prefer to do Sitton Peak again.