This is San Diego

Torrey Pines State Reserve

sdhiker:

Torrey Pines is without a doubt the number one must-see spot in all of San Diego county. The rare torrey pine trees, flowers, geological formations, canyons, towering bluffs, and spectacular ocean views make for some of the best hiking and views anywhere on the west coast. You can enjoy a short easy walk or a strenuous workout all within the boundaries of this spectacular setting. As you walk around Torrey Pines pay close attention to the shape of the torrey pine trees. Do you feel like you’re in a Dr. Susses book ? Well, Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, used these trees as inspiration for his illustrations in book’s such as The Cat in the Hat. Pay close attention as you walk the Beach Trail and you may even see what appears to be Cindy Lou Hoo’s house. A large map is available at the upper parking lot trailheads to familiarize yourself with where you’re headed. Torrey Pines offers a wide variety of trails for both the seasoned hiker as well as short loops with flat terrains that are perfect for beginners, kids or elderly folks. A few highlights include;

Guy Flemming Trail; Situated halfway up the road between the beach and upper parking lot this 3/4 mile loop trail is a great starting point to enjoy all that Torrey Pines has to offer on a short, mostly flat, easily accessible trail. The loop takes you past the beautiful sandstone geological formations and gorgeous torrey pine trees out to the edge of the 200 foot high bluffs and spectacular views of the Pacific coast. Two lookout points along the bluffs allow you to sit and enjoy the views north to Oceanside and south to the La Jolla shores. Along the way you’ll find interpretive signs to learn a little about the terrain, plants and even Mr. Flemming himself. 

Razor Point Trail; From the upper parking lot you can take Razor Point Trail to the Red Butte and back for a short, easy hike or continue on the additional half mile to the Razor Point overlook for the spectacular views. Red Butte offers a high point in the park to view the amazing gorge, trees, ocean views and the interesting rocks of the red butte itself. From the red butte you can loop back to the parking lot via the Beach Trail or continue down to Razor Point overlook where you can enjoy the views of this pristine coastline. Keep your eye out for dolphins playing in the surf below the bluffs. 

Beach Trail; For the full Torrey Pines experience take the Beach Trail from the upper parking lot down the bluffs to the beach. This moderate 1.5 mile round trip will take you through the coastal sagebrush and cactus down to the beach where flat rock separates Torrey Pines State Beach on the North from Blacks Beach on the South. The trail can be steep in parts and keep in mind that you have to come back up the same way. Take caution while on the beach as these bluffs are unstable and rock slides are routine and dangerous. Dont stand too close to the cliff. 

North/South Fork Trails; For a serious hike head south on the paved trail to the North Fork trailhead or further on to the South Fort trailhead. Both connect to the Broken Hill Trail which meander down to the beach access via a series of switchbacks. A short side trip will take you Broken hill Overlook where you can observe the wildlife and take in the  coastal views. Once you reach the beach you can return via the Beach Trail to complete an approximately 5 mile loop from the North Fork or 6 from the South Fork.