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[edit] Understand

San Diego’s near perfect climate, unique landscape, and low-crime rate, make it one of the most pleasant places in the country to enjoy outdoor exercise. Because of this, visitors and locals alike will have no trouble finding a running route in San Diego or a biking, hiking, or walking trail to suit their needs. There are numerous San Diego hiking trails to choose from -- too many to list here --so below you will find a shortlist of some of the most popular San Diego running routes and helpful information about each.

[edit] Biking

San Diego County has dozens of bike baths throughout the area -- big and small, highly visible or hidden. There are about two-dozen popular paths, each with its own level of difficulty, safety, and scenery.

[edit] Paths

[edit] Balboa Park: Upas

This 0.41-mile Balboa Park bike path begins at Upas Street and Seventh Avenue. The starting point can be found near the northwest corner of Balboa Park. The level of difficulty is well above average here as there are several steep descends, sharp turns, and a bridge that crosses highway 163. In several areas, bicyclists must dismount and walk, for safety.

[edit] Bayshore Bikeway

This 25-mile bikeway is one of San Diego’s most popular routes and one of it’s most scenic. The level of difficulty is low as there are no major hills on this route. It is also one of the safest bike routes. The 2.5-hour ride takes cyclists along the bay past golf courses, lagoons, piers and numerous places to stop for a rest and a drink of water such as Pepper Park, mile 9.97 (park), and Glorietta Bay Park to name a few. The route also features a nine-mile stretch that follows the former Coronado Branch of the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railroad.

The Bayshore Bikeway starts at the foot of Broadway Pier, at the intersection of Broadway and Harbor Drive in Downtown San Diego. It ends at mile 24.92, next to a pier.

[edit] Coronado: Silver Strand

One of the longest San Diego bike paths, Silver Strand is an impressive 8.48-mile bike path. The path is so popular because it is San Diego County’s longest continuous red route, meaning, the path does not run through any traffic. The path begins in Imperial Beach at the north end of 13th Street, and it takes cyclists along San Diego Bay. The path then runs east of Highway 75 -- up the Silver Strand. The bike path ends at Pomona Avenue and Glorietta Boulevard in Coronado. FYI: There are restrooms and a drinking fountain at Silver State Beach.

[edit] Downtown San Diego: North Harbor Drive

This 1.9-mile path is a mixed bag of roadways, parking lots, drives, and bridges. The North Harbor Drive bike path is also frequented by more than bicyclists -- skaters, runners, walker’s and “others” frequent the path. Although there is much activity here outside of cycling, this is still a desirable route for bikers and runners. The path goes through Spanish Landing Park, and it passes the Naval Training Center. This is a great path for those looking for more of an obstacle course type of experience. It is also good for those looking to take in a few sights along the way -- mostly people watching.

[edit] Escondido: North Shore Lake Hodges

This 0.6-mile bike path is excellent for those looking for a simple, no-frills path. The North Shore Lake Hodges bike path runs along Interstate 15, beginning at Sunset Drive (Escondido), and ends at a fence that runs between the Interstate and the bike path. For mountain bikers, there is a trail that continues west. The trail is also a hiking trail and an equestrian trail.

[edit] Oceanside: San Luis Rey River

The level of difficulty along this long 7.21-mile path varies from mile to mile, but overall this path is good for all levels. The path runs along the south bank of the San Luis Rey River, passing under several bridges including: Benet Road Bridge, College Avenue Bridge, Douglas Drive Bridge, and Foussant Road Bridge.

[edit] San Marcos: Discovery Creek

The San Marcos Discovery Creek path is great for cyclists interested in great views. Cyclists will have to put in some work, though, to reach the views. They will have to climb a 0.8-mile paved road uphill -- but most agree that it’s worth the climb. The bike path totals 1.1 miles with an equestrian path running just south of it. The path begins at La Noche Drive, runs along Discovery Creek and ends at Lakeview Park.

[edit] Mission Bay

Mission Bay Park in San Diego has an easy 14-mile ride around Mission Bay on separated bike paths. There are marvelous views of the ocean and the bay along with numerous side trips to make this particular route on of the most popular in California. You will be coming across pedestrians many times along the route, so safety is paramount at all times. One of those side trips is a ride around Fiesta Island that will only add about five minutes to the overall journey. Another would be a little ride to Hospitality Point and the jetty between Mission Bay Channel and the San Diego River.

Start your ride at the Mission Bay Visitor Information Center on East Mission Bay Drive near the Clairemont Drive exit from Interstate 5 Freeway. Parking is scarce and is only limited to just one hour, but the ride can take quite a bit longer. Depending of course on the number of side trips you decide to take. The best option then is to park in one of the lots to the north or the south of the center.

[edit] Fiesta Island

Fiesta Island actually hosts the Fiesta Island Time Trial Series hosted by the San Diego Bicycle Club. It has the fastest island road course in California. Competitors meet up to see who can ride the quickest 20k or improve the most. Single riders, tandems and teams are all welcome, and the event also hosts triathletes and world class road race athletes. There is always a waiting list for these trials, so early registration is vital if you want to take part in this very exciting aspect of cycling in Mission Bay Park.

Also be very careful on the pathway immediately after crossing Sea World Drive, because automobiles are still allowed on this section which used to carry traffic prior to Sea World Drive being built.

[edit] Rock Climbing

San Diego offers some unique opportunities for rock climbing both outdoor and indoor, in what is becoming one of the fastest growing adventure activity in the area. Although San Diego is really considered a destination climbing area, specialist climbing companies such as the Front Range Climbing Company in San Diego offer guided rock climbing from professional climbers for the beginner to the experienced climber. All the climbing companies provide all the required equipment such as helmets, shoes and harnesses, and usually require an n orientation meeting the week of the climb for all participants.

[edit] Outdoor Climbing Spots

[edit] Mission Gorge

One of the more popular ranges is Mission Gorge, located in Mission Trails Regional Park, and with over 150 routes from 5.0 to 5.12 grades. The campground is located about one mile from the climbing area. This climbing range is suitable for the novice and the experienced climber, and if you climb in the morning select the west facing walls, and in the afternoon and early evening the east facing cliffs.

[edit] El Cajon Mountain

El Cajon Mountain is one of the hidden gems for local climbers. Although it is only 3675 feet high, it can be quite steep in parts, but offers spectacular views from the summit. It is also quite difficult to find, and is surrounded by an Indian reservation and private land. There is little or no vegetation, minimal parking at the trailhead and no camping.

[edit] Mount Woodson

Mount Woodson is a climb that runs right up the center of the rock. Known as a tough climb and certainly not for beginners, the start is very awkward, and the experts advise first timers to stay in the crack for the best results. Dixon Lake is a small climbing area adjacent to Lake Dixon in Escondido featuring cracks and deep faces. Bouldering and Toprope are the preferred methods here.

[edit] Otay Wilderness Park

Otay Wilderness Park offers short sport climbing on metamorphic rock, with plenty of shade. However, recent intense activity by the border patrol due to the increased level of illegal immigration in the area has resulted in climbing being illegal, so beware.

[edit] Valley of the Moon

Another climbing area close to the Mexican border is Valley of the Moon, about one hours drive east of El Cajon. A very difficult area to find, best to go with someone who has been there before. The 40 climbing routes offer a ‘Joshua Tree-like” experience, and the beginner should probably avoid this range.

[edit] Santee Boulders

Santee Boulders in the town of Santee is a very popular destination for the casual climber. Extremely easy access and parking makes a visit to these 30 granite boulders a popular after work hang out, where all you will need are a decent pair of climbing shoes and a chalk bag.

[edit] Stonewall Peak

Stonewall Peak at 5730 feet and consisting primarily of granite, is located off Highway 79 in Cuyamaca Rancho Sate Park about 9 miles south of Julian. It is a relatively easy hike that takes about one hour to the summit. Formerly a mine that was closed n 1892, it was originally known as the “Stonewall Jackson Mine,” named after the great Confederate General. About a mile away there is also Middle Peak, another relatively easy climb at 5883 feet, even though there may be still a few restrictions imposed by the rangers after the 2003 forest fires.

[edit] Indoor Climbing Spots

There are also a few Indoor climbing gyms, the best probably being Vertical Hold in Mira Mesa, the largest full service climbing gym in the San Diego area. There are also climbing walls at San Diego State and the University of California San Diego that are open to the public as well as students.

[edit] Running Routes

[edit] Balboa Park

There are several miles of scenic running trails in 1,200-acre Balboa Park. Located in Downtown San Diego, this is the perfect exercise spot for visitors, as it is in close proximity to hotels and the historic Gaslamp Quarter where runners can unwind at one of the many restaurants or bars located in the quarter.

One of the most popular Balboa Park running/walking trails is a 5.5-mile route that’s compatible with all fitness levels. The route starts and ends at C Street and 6th Avenue. Highlights along this trail include: bridges, canyons, creeks, flower-covered hillsides, and gardens.

[edit] Cowles Mountain

Popular with both runners and hikers, Cowles Mountain offers several challenging trails ranging from three to five miles (roundtrip) featuring steep climbs, wooden steps, and rock crossings. Located in the heart of San Diego and at 1,591 feet, the top of Cowles Mountain is the highest point in the city -- offering a 360-degree view of San Diego, the Pacific Ocean, and the inland mountains.

[edit] Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay Park features roughly 5,800 acres of space and includes a mix of developed and natural land. Outdoor exercisers have their pick of 40 miles of hiking, biking, and running trails that are not meant for the sedentary. These trails are not flat and they can be challenging. The park is located eight miles from Downtown San Diego and features several trails ranging from 0.6 miles or so up to more than 10 miles.

Each trail has a moderate level of difficulty and each is surrounded by a different type(s) of habitat. This makes running along these trails both challenging and scenic. Visitors can start their jogging or running adventure at the visitor center, where they can choose a trail to match their fitness level.

[edit] San Diego Bay

The San Diego Bay offers several running trail options. Runners can opt for a paved trail which includes a run around the harbor while taking in sites such as the Maritime Museum, they can choose a run to and from downtown, or travel via bus to Spanish Landing (start there) and end at Seaport Village. Trails along the San Diego Bay can range from 3.9 miles or so up to 16-20 miles out and back along the San Diego waterfront. For the most part, these trials are flat.