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18 Best Hikes in San Diego (According to a Backpacking Guide)

Best Hikes in San Diego

There are plentiful opportunities to enjoy the unique and varying landscapes throughout San Diego County. Whether you’re an experienced hiker trying to bag some peaks or someone who likes a gentle stroll along the Pacific Ocean, there is a hike for you.

So lace up your hiking boots— these are the best hikes in San Diego!

When to Go Hiking in San Diego

As one of the sunniest cities in the U.S., and because of its proximity to Mexico, San Diego has fairly moderate temperatures for most of the year; the high is usually between 60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the city. Year-round hiking opportunities are plentiful in this beautiful Southern California city.

Spring

The spring is a great time to go hiking in the San Diego area. In the early spring, temperatures are very comfortable in the 60s – 70s Fahrenheit throughout the day and trails are less crowded during the shoulder season from March to May.

Wildflowers and blooming yuccas are also beautiful sites to see in the springtime. Also, to see the highest water flow in creeks, streams, and waterfalls, spring is a great time to hike!

Summer

Summer is the hottest time to go hiking in San Diego. Temperatures consistently reach over 90 degrees Fahrenheit and are sometimes hotter when you’re hiking inland or in a canyon.

If you plan to hike during the summer in San Diego, I’d recommend hitting the trails very early before the heat of the day sets in. This will also give you a bit more time to explore the trails before the crowds wake up.

The heat in the summer is the most dangerous factor on many of the San Diego hikes. Plan accordingly and pack a lot of water; more than you’d think. If you’re going to be out for 3 hours, bring at least 2 liters of water. There are very few to no spots to filter water depending on the hike you choose.

Fall

Along with spring, fall is another great time to go hiking in San Diego. Temperatures are moderate, averaging in the 70s, and September to October is the shoulder season and less crowded.

Cooler temperatures in the fall bring beautiful fall colors to some of the higher peaks like Cuyamaca Peak or El Cajon Mountain. Coastal hikes are still a great option because as the Pacific Ocean is warms throughout summer, it sends soothing breezy temperatures across the area.

Winter

Even in the winter there are plenty of hiking options in San Diego. The beautiful city is filled with sunshine and the moderate winter daily high temperatures average around 60 degrees…

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