Mission Trails Regional Park

After hiking at Mission Trails, consider these San Diego hikes:

This regional park encompasses almost 5,800 acres of land including rugged hills, valleys, and open areas. Located just 8 miles from downtown San Diego, this urban park is easily accessible to residents and visitors to the area.

Enjoy 50 miles of hiking trails, boating on Lake Murray, and camping. Most of the trails are challenging or moderately challenging. A popular hike is Cowles Mountain. The distance varies from 1.5 to 2.2 miles one way depending on where you begin the hike. You are rewarded with a great view of San Diego from the top of this mountain which has an elevation of 1592 feet. Early morning is the best time to hike at this park to avoid the crowds and the summer heat.

Begin your visit at the Visitor & Interpretive Center where you can learn about the park including the plants and animals making this area their home, the various activities in the park, and the history of this region. Pick up a trail map at the visitor center.

Directions to Visitor Center from I-8:
Take Interstate 8 to the Mission Gorge Road/Fairmount Avenue exit. Turn north onto Mission Gorge Road and continue for 4.2 miles. Look for the large wooden park sign on the left side of the road. Turn left onto Father Junipero Serra Trail. The entrance to the Visitor Center parking lot is on the left, just before the pipe gate.

Still have a question?

Use Google to search the site or Contact me.

Visit these Recommended Sites

Attention all Chocolate Lovers! You'll find the best chocolate dessert recipes and learn interesting chocolate facts at
Chocolate-Addiction.com

Ready for a California Wine Tasting Tour? Learn all about touring the California Wine Country at Cheers2Wine.com Save money by printing free wine tasting coupons for selected California wineries.