Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve: A San Diego Oasis
Discover natural beauty and rich history at this 4,000-acre urban oasis in San Diego, offering hiking, biking, and equestrian trails for all to enjoy.
Escape the city bustle at Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve, a 4,000-acre urban park jointly managed by the City and County of San Diego. Explore diverse habitats, from lush riparian corridors to steep slopes and grassy hillsides, and discover a rich history dating back 7,000 years.
A brief summary to Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve
- 12020 Black Mountain Rd, San Diego, California, 92129, US
- +1619-525-8213
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the trails offer varying degrees of shade.
- Check the official website or call the Park Ranger Office for up-to-date trail conditions and closures.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking or biking on uneven terrain.
- Visit the Santa Maria de Los Peñasquitos Adobe for a glimpse into the area's past.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-5, take CA-56 East. Exit at Black Mountain Road and head north for about a mile. The preserve entrance will be on your right. Parking is available at the staging area on Black Mountain Road. Parking cost is free.
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, take the MTS bus route 20 towards Mira Mesa Transit Center. Get off at the Black Mountain Rd & Paseo Montanoso stop. Walk north on Black Mountain Rd for approximately 1 mile to the preserve entrance. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50.
Discover more about Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ken Wakabayashi Bench
6.3 km
Experience tranquility at the Ken Wakabayashi Bench, a historic landmark on the scenic Miner's Ridge Loop Trail in San Diego, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Flag Assembly Area
9.2 km
Experience the Flag Assembly Area in San Diego, a historical landmark dedicated to honoring military service and fostering community remembrance.
Porter's House
9.3 km
Explore the charming historical site of Porter's House in Old Poway, a timeless glimpse into California's rich heritage amidst beautiful scenery.
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
10.2 km
Discover a perfect blend of luxury and comfort at Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla, your gateway to unforgettable coastal adventures.
Epstein Family Amphitheater
11.8 km
Discover the Epstein Family Amphitheater in La Jolla, where nature meets live music for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
12.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic route filled with stunning views, charming towns, and rich history.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
12.3 km
Explore the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, where cutting-edge research meets stunning architecture amidst the breathtaking coastal landscape of La Jolla.
Sun God
12.3 km
Discover the 'Sun God' sculpture in La Jolla, California—an iconic artwork that embodies creativity and cultural vibrancy amidst stunning surroundings.
Selwyn Monument
12.6 km
Explore the Selwyn Monument, a captivating historical landmark in San Diego's Marian Bear Memorial Natural Park, blending nature and history.
La Jolla Project
12.7 km
Explore the La Jolla Project, a stunning outdoor sculpture collection in San Diego that merges contemporary art with breathtaking coastal views.
Old Mission Dam
13.4 km
Explore the Historic Old Mission Dam in San Diego - A Scenic Hiking Area and Cultural Landmark with Breathtaking Views.
Mushroom Beach House
13.7 km
Discover the enchanting Mushroom Beach House in La Jolla, a unique historical landmark showcasing whimsical architecture and stunning coastal views.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
14.0 km
Explore the captivating marine life and stunning exhibits at the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, California, a top destination for ocean enthusiasts.
New Scripps/Administration Building
14.3 km
Explore the New Scripps Administration Building, a cornerstone of marine science and research in the stunning coastal setting of La Jolla, California.
Fletcher Point
14.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Fletcher Point, San Diego's premier hiking area that invites nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Duck Foot Brewing Miramar
6.4 km
Explore innovative craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere at Duck Foot Brewing in Miramar, San Diego—your destination for unforgettable brewing experiences.
UTC ICE
10.7 km
Discover the ultimate ice skating experience at UTC ICE in San Diego, where fun meets excitement on the ice for all ages.
Torrey Pines Golf Course
11.5 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and world-class golfing experience at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and diverse wildlife of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla, California.
Stuart Collection
11.8 km
Explore the Stuart Collection in La Jolla, a stunning outdoor sculpture park showcasing innovative artworks by renowned artists amidst beautiful landscapes.
Geisel Library
12.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and academic spirit of Geisel Library at UC San Diego, a must-visit for tourists and book lovers alike.
Red Butte
12.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Red Butte, a stunning coastal attraction in La Jolla, California, perfect for hiking, photography, and wildlife watching.
North Overlook
12.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene beauty of North Overlook in La Jolla, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Torrey Pines State Beach
12.4 km
Explore the majestic cliffs and pristine beaches of Torrey Pines State Beach, a natural haven in La Jolla, California, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Flat Rock
12.5 km
Explore the breathtaking coastal views and serene landscapes at Flat Rock in La Jolla, a hidden gem within Torrey Pines State Park.
Sunset Seat
12.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant sunsets at Sunset Seat, a serene coastal escape in Del Mar, California, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
La Jolla Colony Park
12.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and natural charm of La Jolla Colony Park, a serene oasis in the heart of San Diego perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Torrey Pines Gliderport
12.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and the thrill of flight at Torrey Pines Gliderport, a historical landmark in La Jolla, California.
La Jolla Trail
12.9 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty of La Jolla Trail, a premier hiking destination in San Diego, California, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Del Mar
13.1 km
Experience the stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and charming atmosphere of Del Mar, California's coastal paradise.
Essential places to dine
Seasons 52
10.5 km
Experience fine dining at Seasons 52 in San Diego with fresh seasonal dishes and a commitment to healthy eating.
A.R. Valentien
11.5 km
Discover A.R. Valentien in La Jolla – where Californian cuisine meets fine dining excellence amidst breathtaking coastal views.
The Grill at Torrey Pines
11.5 km
Experience culinary artistry at The Grill at Torrey Pines in La Jolla - where fine dining meets breathtaking views.
Humphreys La Jolla Grill
12.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning ocean views at Humphreys La Jolla Grill – a culinary gem in Southern California.
Urban Plates
12.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Urban Plates in La Jolla—fresh ingredients, diverse menu options, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Steamy Piggy
12.6 km
Experience the best of Asian fusion at Steamy Piggy - where delicious dumplings meet innovative Chinese cuisine in San Diego.
Shorehouse Kitchen
15.0 km
Discover Shorehouse Kitchen in La Jolla: where fresh Californian cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters
15.0 km
Experience the best seafood at Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters in La Jolla, where coastal flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Sea & Sky
15.1 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Sea & Sky in La Jolla - perfect for breakfast, brunch, and fine dining.
Piatti
15.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Piatti in La Jolla - where fresh ingredients meet stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Shore Rider Bar
15.2 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks at Shore Rider Bar in La Jolla - where coastal dining meets vibrant atmosphere.
Barbarella Restaurant & Bar
15.2 km
Experience European elegance at Barbarella Restaurant & Bar in La Jolla - where culinary delights meet coastal charm.
Osteria Romantica
15.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Romantica in La Jolla—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Shores Restaurant
15.2 km
Experience exquisite Californian and seafood cuisine at Shores Restaurant in La Jolla with stunning ocean views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Marine Room
15.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Marine Room in La Jolla, where Californian seafood meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable meal.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop
11.6 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in La Jolla, featuring unique treasures and local crafts that capture the spirit of California's coastal beauty.
The Shops at La Jolla Village
12.4 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at The Shops at La Jolla Village, where upscale boutiques meet delightful dining options in a picturesque setting.
La Jolla Village Square
12.6 km
Explore the vibrant shops and delightful dining options at La Jolla Village Square, a must-visit shopping destination in sunny California.
Sea Hive La Jolla
12.6 km
Explore Sea Hive La Jolla for eclectic gifts, vintage clothing, and local artisan treasures in a charming coastal setting.
Birch Aquarium Gift Shop
13.9 km
Discover unique marine-themed gifts and souvenirs at the Birch Aquarium Gift Shop in La Jolla, California.
Balboa Mesa Shopping Center
14.0 km
Discover the vibrant Balboa Mesa Shopping Center in San Diego, a shopping haven with diverse stores, great dining, and a lively community atmosphere.
Ocean Girl-Surf Boutique
15.1 km
Discover the best in beach fashion and surf gear at Ocean Girl-Surf Boutique in La Jolla, California, where the surf culture thrives.
Lulumars Boutique
16.5 km
Discover the charm of Lulumars Boutique in La Jolla, where unique gifts and local artistry come together to create unforgettable shopping experiences.
Simple Laguna
16.6 km
Discover the essence of California style at Simple Laguna, a boutique in the heart of La Jolla offering unique clothing and accessories.
GK Fashion House
16.6 km
Discover exclusive couture and stylish pieces at GK Fashion House, La Jolla's premier boutique for the fashion-forward traveler.
The Shop La Jolla
16.6 km
Explore The Shop La Jolla for unique clothing and artwork that embodies the spirit of Southern California's coastal style.
Robina
16.6 km
Explore Robina in La Jolla for unique fashion and home goods that reflect Southern California's charm and style.
Lissilaa Boutique
16.6 km
Explore Lissilaa Boutique in La Jolla for a unique shopping experience featuring stylish clothing and accessories that capture California's coastal charm.
Mila Boutique
16.6 km
Explore Mila Boutique in La Jolla for a unique selection of women's fashion that captures the essence of coastal California living.
The International Shops
16.6 km
Explore The International Shops in La Jolla: a vibrant shopping mall featuring unique boutiques and delicious dining options by the stunning California coast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Raised by Wolves
10.7 km
Discover San Diego's hidden gem - Raised by Wolves, a speakeasy cocktail bar with innovative drinks and a captivating atmosphere.
The Wine Bar
10.8 km
Experience the essence of La Jolla at The Wine Bar, where exquisite wines and delicious bites await in a charming atmosphere.
Drift La Jolla
11.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and gourmet dining at Drift La Jolla, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Shooters
12.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of La Jolla at Shooters, where crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you in this coastal gem.
Realm Of The 52 Remedies
12.2 km
Experience the art of mixology at the Realm of the 52 Remedies, a cocktail bar in San Diego where innovative drinks meet traditional healing inspirations.
West Bar
12.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of West Bar in La Jolla, where exquisite cocktails meet the coastal charm of Southern California.
Blarney Stone Pub
14.0 km
Discover a lively atmosphere and delicious pub fare at Blarney Stone Pub in Clairemont, San Diego – your destination for Irish hospitality and local craft beers.
Hiatus Pool Lounge
15.1 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Hiatus Pool Lounge in La Jolla, offering ocean views and delicious cocktails in a serene atmosphere.
We Olive & Wine Bar
16.8 km
Experience gourmet olive oils, fine wines, and artisanal delicacies at We Olive & Wine Bar, a must-visit destination in La Jolla.
La Sala Lounge
16.8 km
Experience the charm of La Jolla at La Sala Lounge, where exquisite cocktails meet breathtaking ocean views in a stylish ambiance.
The Whaling Bar
16.8 km
Discover the coastal culinary delights at The Whaling Bar in La Jolla, where fresh seafood meets artisan cocktails in a stunning oceanfront setting.
The Hive La Jolla
16.9 km
Discover a whimsical bar experience at The Hive La Jolla, featuring stunning floral decor and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable moments.
Hennessey's Tavern
16.9 km
Discover the lively spirit of Hennessey's Tavern in La Jolla, where Irish charm meets Californian flair in a perfect pub setting.
KnB Bistro
17.1 km
Experience the culinary magic of KnB Bistro in La Jolla, where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Nautilus Tavern
18.2 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at Nautilus Tavern, a beloved coastal eatery in La Jolla known for its fresh ingredients and inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sun God Lounge
12.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Sun God Lounge in La Jolla, where relaxation meets social engagement in a stunning coastal setting.
Middle Earth Lounge
12.2 km
Discover the lively Middle Earth Lounge in La Jolla, CA; a perfect blend of delicious food, crafted drinks, and vibrant nightlife for all visitors.
Woo Karaoke
12.2 km
Unleash your inner star at Woo Karaoke, La Jolla's premier karaoke bar with live music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable performances.
Blue Agave Night Club
16.2 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Blue Agave Night Club in San Diego, where vibrant music and affordable drinks create unforgettable nighttime experiences.
Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge in Pacific Beach, San Diego, where great cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
The Comedy Store - La Jolla
17.3 km
Experience an unforgettable night of laughter at The Comedy Store in La Jolla, California - where humor and entertainment meet stunning coastal charm.
The Collective
19.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Collective, Pacific Beach's premier venue for live music and handcrafted cocktails.
PB Avenue
19.3 km
Discover PB Avenue, a vibrant night club in San Diego's Pacific Beach, offering lively music, delicious drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Bert's Bar West
19.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bert's Bar West in Pacific Beach, San Diego—where great drinks, music, and fun await every night.
Spin Nightclub
22.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Spin Nightclub, where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
The Hole in the Wall
22.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Hole in the Wall, a historical bar in San Diego offering delicious food, cocktails, and entertaining karaoke nights.
Winstons Beach Club
24.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Winstons Beach Club, where live music, comedy, and karaoke create unforgettable moments.
Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
24.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge in Point Loma, San Diego, where delicious cocktails meet stunning coastal views.
Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
24.8 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of San Diego at Phantom Lounge and Nightclub, where great cocktails, music, and ambiance come together for an unforgettable evening.
Parq Nightclub
24.8 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Parq Nightclub, where world-class DJs, exquisite cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await in Downtown San Diego.
