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Mission Trails Regional Park: San Diego's Natural Escape

Explore San Diego's natural beauty and history at Mission Trails Regional Park: hiking, biking, camping, and cultural heritage await!

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Mission Trails Regional Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offers a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and the San Diego River. With over 60 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, plus a state-of-the-art visitor center, it's a natural and historical treasure just minutes from downtown San Diego.

A brief summary to Mission Trails Regional Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Visitor Center first to learn about the park's history, trails, and natural features.
  • Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear, especially for longer hikes.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to find parking.
  • Check the park's website for ranger-led hikes and events.
  • Be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Diego, take the Green Line Trolley to the 70th Street Station. From there, it's about a 1-mile walk to the park entrance. Alternatively, the Route 115 bus stops closer to the park on Jackson Drive. A single ride on the Trolley or bus costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are near the eastern end of Mission Gorge Road, you can walk to the park entrance on Father Junipero Serra Trail. From the intersection of Mission Gorge Road and Jackson Drive, head north on Father Junipero Serra Trail. The visitor center is approximately 1 mile away. Be aware that there are limited sidewalks.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 8, take the Mission Gorge Road/Fairmount Avenue exit and head north on Mission Gorge Road. Turn left onto Father Junipero Serra Trail. The Visitor Center parking lot will be on your left. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially on weekends. Street parking is available on Echo Dell Road across Mission Gorge Road.

Unlock the Best of Mission Trails Regional Park

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Discover more about Mission Trails Regional Park

Spanning over 7,000 acres, Mission Trails Regional Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Established in 1974, the park protects the natural landscape of San Diego as it existed centuries ago. The park's diverse terrain includes rugged mountains, serene lakes, and the flowing San Diego River. For hikers, the park boasts over 60 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Cowles Mountain, the highest point in the city, is a popular destination offering panoramic views. Mountain bikers and horseback riders can also enjoy many of the park's trails. The Kumeyaay Lake Campground provides a spot for overnight stays, and Lake Murray is available for boating and fishing. The park is also rich in history. It was once home to the Kumeyaay people, and later, the site of the Old Mission Dam, built by Kumeyaay laborers to provide water to Mission San Diego de Alcala. The dam, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a testament to early engineering and the region's cultural heritage. The park's visitor center offers exhibits about the park's geology, ecology, and the history of the Kumeyaay people. Mission Trails Regional Park is divided into five regions: West Fortuna, East Fortuna, Mission Gorge, Cowles Mountain, and Lake Murray. Each area offers unique features and points of interest. The park provides a range of educational activities, including guided hikes, lectures, and classes.

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