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We had a PICNIC on the TOP OF MT HELIX PARK, and it was amazing!!! We had never been before, and did not know what to expect. As we drove up the windy, windy road, we began to see cars lined up on the side of the road. We were expecting a crowded parking lot. IT WASN'T!!! As we turned the the corner, a car was pulling out. JUST IN TIME!!! We expected to eat on the cement steps, WRONG!!! To the side of the parking lot, there is a SINGLE PICNIC TABLE!!! I had a ROAST BEEF SANDWHICH and POTATO SALAD, and WATERMELON. AND DORITOS!!! As for my partner, he had a TUNA SANDWHICH and POTATO SALAD, and CANTALOUPE. AND DORITOS!!! We got 365 Degree VIEWS!!! I stayed at the table, GONZALO took off UP TO THE CROSS!!!
This was a beautiful spot! Went for a "hike" one morning and chose to see this place. There is a short trail around the park, but we opted to do some exercise on the stairs as well. Parking was enough, some street parking and a small lot toward the amphitheater. We spent a few hours up here. If you take Alto Dr, the houses there are also gorgeous and unique! Port-a-potties for bathrooms. I would definitely want to catch a sunset here sometime!
It has been a really, really long time since I've been up here. Luckily the weather was great and Cako and I were in the area, so why not? Parking is a little tricky. There's a small lot with like 5 or 6 spots, one being a handicap one. As you enter the top, you can park along the road but space is limited. And if you do park there, please get into your car and leave because someone might be waiting. Which is what happened to us, and this car behind me, went around and parked in the space behind the car I was waiting for. Luckily, another spot opened up. There are some trails around the top that lead you to the amphitheater and cross. It would be great to see a concert here but probably a logistical nightmare! It's a great place to walk up to from below. If I lived nearby, I'd do it. Cako loved running around the amphitheater. On a clear day, you can see El Cajon, La Mesa, the ocean, even Tijuana. It's a great place to come and have a conversation, a solo tip to meditate, or even to smoke a doobie in your car...remember that car that parked in front of me? That's what they were doing! LOL! Cako Approves!
The centennial anniversary of this historical park in La Mesa is coming up next year. I made a recent stop after learning there was a short trail that wrapped the perimeter of this 1,370 foot mountain peak. There were very limited parking spaces at the top so it surprised me that an outdoor amphitheatre had been built into the hillside in the shadow of a 35 foot high Christian cross. During my walk, I noticed a sign advertising various community events that were held at the amphitheatre if you were a member of Mt Helix Park. The Yawkey Trail, named after the lady whose mother enjoyed the panoramic views here, was a 0.3 mile path that circumnavigated the summit. In each of the four major directions was a sign board that identified the various mountains and points of interest in the distance. They were very helpful and showed why the scenery was so beautiful. It doesn't take long to explore this park, and I can see why it's a hangout for those who want to chill and soak in the sunrise or sunset.
As a member of the Mr. Helix Park Foundation, I recently received a flyer inviting me to Astronomy Night. This special event featured the Astronomy Association showcasing telescopes and the talented International Academy of Jazz providing musical entertainment. The park itself is a true gem, offering stunning vistas of San Diego County that stretch for miles. Whenever I have the opportunity to visit, I enjoy simply going up there to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. One noteworthy observation I made during my visit was the absence of public restrooms. On that particular day, portable toilets were available, but it would be great to have permanent restroom facilities in the park. With several events scheduled throughout the year, I plan to explore and attend other upcoming activities as they become available. Recommend checking this location out.
We bought tickets to a Vivaldi 4 Seasons string quartet concert. We had to park at Grossmont HS. Trolley picked us up from there and drove us to the park. The trolley driver was very entertaining and made the experience memorable. We get dropped off at the venue. They offered wine and charcuterie box for purchase. The experience at the concert was incredible. Being outside with all those candles and the string quartet. Phenomenal!
Mt Helix is a vibe when you get up there I chose to park at the bottom across the fire station to get my steps in its only .9 miles up. The amphitheater stairs made me want to do more cardio! There is also parking at the top if you dont want to do alla that haha
360° View. Enough said lol. I come here almost exclusively for sunrise. It's so beautiful. Small. Chill. Quaint. I love this place. The view never gets old. Close to cute coffee and breakfast shops to go to after catching sunrise. Stairs for exercise. It's the perfect mix of exploration and simplicity.
This place is awesome. We went to the candle light symphony and it was beautiful. They shuttle you up to the park because of parking which was great. The ambiance was great too. Be sure to bring something to sit on. The park has the most wonderful views!
Always a gorgeous place to view sunsets on clear days! While the drive up doesn't seem like a drastic uphill climb, beautiful panoramic views await you once you reach the top. Clear, less smoggy days are simply the best times to go-although sometimes it's hard to tell/predict this before. It can be hazy at times. I have been coming here for more than 30 years, in my high school era having many fun times with friends back then. Underage partying of course, but not any trouble making that I can recall.. At the top there is an amphitheater type setup for private events, weddings, etc. It is very well maintained year round. Do you know about the rotating house? Yes, it is here. There are several small dirt trails surrounding the area for better viewing angles and photos of the entire area. Just take a little time to explore. We prefer to park actually on the road just before the entrance, which makes it really quick to exit down the hill. One of Southern California's simple pleasures that still remains free!
When I was younger, I would come up here and pray when I felt like I needed to be close to God. I was having a very hard time one day, and I was praying to God and looking at the majesty of the views. My aunt gave me an old Polaroid camera, and I stood at the cross to take a photo of it, and in the background appeared an image I've always thought it looked like a guardian angel with a sword strap to the side. Pretty powerful. This photo is circa1986.
An incredible 360 view of the city! Great place for photos and a sunset view. There's a short hike around the mountain and a small concert venue. I came to read and enjoy the sunset on a Saturday night and parking was totally easy. But beware! It's mostly dusty....I made the mistake of wearing white sneakers (don't make the same mistake)
Best place to see the city, exercise & chill, a date. There's even yoga here and events as well. Parking can be sketchy either get lucky or park along side as many do where it says No Parking. One way on one way out. Great for photography!
5 months ago
Situated 1365' above San Diego and east of downtown, Mt. Helix Park is a hidden gem to most who live in or visit San Diego. It is well worth taking the scenic drive up Mt. Helix, starting in neighborhoods and stopping at or near the summit. Parking near the top is very limited, and the road is one way, so be prepared to take the first space you find as you approach the summit and walk to the top. At the summit, you'll enjoy spectacular views that stretch from the mountains to the east, south toward Mexico, and to the Pacific coastline to the west. Here you'll also find an open air amphitheater used for concerts, as well as lookout points and trail heads. Plan to spend time here absorbing the views, fresh air, peaceful surroundings ... and maybe a picnic. I highly recomend a visit. read more
11 months ago
One of my favorite parks in La Mesa. Sd best kept secret. Best place to watch sunrise or sunset with extraordinary views of spring valley/ Rancho sd La Mesa. Also the incline is a great workout! Bonus tip. In October they host the Halloween candlelight for the best spookiest vibes under moonlight! read more
1 year ago
We had a PICNIC on the TOP OF MT HELIX PARK, and it was amazing!!! We had never been before, and did not know what to expect. As we drove up the windy, windy road, we began to see cars lined up on the side of the road. We were expecting a crowded parking lot. IT WASN'T!!! As we turned the the corner, a car was pulling out. JUST IN TIME!!! We expected to eat on the cement steps, WRONG!!! To the side of the parking lot, there is a SINGLE PICNIC TABLE!!! I had a ROAST BEEF SANDWHICH and POTATO SALAD, and WATERMELON. AND DORITOS!!! As for my partner, he had a TUNA SANDWHICH and POTATO SALAD, and CANTALOUPE. AND DORITOS!!! We got 365 Degree VIEWS!!! I stayed at the table, GONZALO took off UP TO THE CROSS!!! read more
This was a beautiful spot! Went for a "hike" one morning and chose to see this place. There is a short trail around the park, but we opted to do some exercise on the stairs as well. Parking was enough, some street parking and a small lot toward the amphitheater. We spent a few hours up here. If you take Alto Dr, the houses there are also gorgeous and unique! Port-a-potties for bathrooms. I would definitely want to catch a sunset here sometime! read more
It has been a really, really long time since I've been up here. Luckily the weather was great and Cako and I were in the area, so why not? Parking is a little tricky. There's a small lot with like 5 or 6 spots, one being a handicap one. As you enter the top, you can park along the road but space is limited. And if you do park there, please get into your car and leave because someone might be waiting. Which is what happened to us, and this car behind me, went around and parked in the space behind the car I was waiting for. Luckily, another spot opened up. There are some trails around the top that lead you to the amphitheater and cross. It would be great to see a concert here but probably a logistical nightmare! It's a great place to walk up to from below. If I lived nearby, I'd do it. Cako loved running around the amphitheater. On a clear day, you can see El Cajon, La Mesa, the ocean, even Tijuana. It's a great place to come and have a conversation, a solo tip to meditate, or even to smoke a doobie in your car...remember that car that parked in front of me? That's what they were doing! LOL! Cako Approves! read more
The centennial anniversary of this historical park in La Mesa is coming up next year. I made a recent stop after learning there was a short trail that wrapped the perimeter of this 1,370 foot mountain peak. There were very limited parking spaces at the top so it surprised me that an outdoor amphitheatre had been built into the hillside in the shadow of a 35 foot high Christian cross. During my walk, I noticed a sign advertising various community events that were held at the amphitheatre if you were a member of Mt Helix Park. The Yawkey Trail, named after the lady whose mother enjoyed the panoramic views here, was a 0.3 mile path that circumnavigated the summit. In each of the four major directions was a sign board that identified the various mountains and points of interest in the distance. They were very helpful and showed why the scenery was so beautiful. It doesn't take long to explore this park, and I can see why it's a hangout for those who want to chill and soak in the sunrise or sunset. read more
5 months ago
As a member of the Mr. Helix Park Foundation, I recently received a flyer inviting me to Astronomy Night. This special event featured the Astronomy Association showcasing telescopes and the talented International Academy of Jazz providing musical entertainment. The park itself is a true gem, offering stunning vistas of San Diego County that stretch for miles. Whenever I have the opportunity to visit, I enjoy simply going up there to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. One noteworthy observation I made during my visit was the absence of public restrooms. On that particular day, portable toilets were available, but it would be great to have permanent restroom facilities in the park. With several events scheduled throughout the year, I plan to explore and attend other upcoming activities as they become available. Recommend checking this location out. read more
We bought tickets to a Vivaldi 4 Seasons string quartet concert. We had to park at Grossmont HS. Trolley picked us up from there and drove us to the park. The trolley driver was very entertaining and made the experience memorable. We get dropped off at the venue. They offered wine and charcuterie box for purchase. The experience at the concert was incredible. Being outside with all those candles and the string quartet. Phenomenal! read more
1 year ago
Mt Helix is a vibe when you get up there I chose to park at the bottom across the fire station to get my steps in its only .9 miles up. The amphitheater stairs made me want to do more cardio! There is also parking at the top if you dont want to do alla that haha read more
360° View. Enough said lol. I come here almost exclusively for sunrise. It's so beautiful. Small. Chill. Quaint. I love this place. The view never gets old. Close to cute coffee and breakfast shops to go to after catching sunrise. Stairs for exercise. It's the perfect mix of exploration and simplicity. read more
2 years ago
This place is awesome. We went to the candle light symphony and it was beautiful. They shuttle you up to the park because of parking which was great. The ambiance was great too. Be sure to bring something to sit on. The park has the most wonderful views! read more
Always a gorgeous place to view sunsets on clear days! While the drive up doesn't seem like a drastic uphill climb, beautiful panoramic views await you once you reach the top. Clear, less smoggy days are simply the best times to go-although sometimes it's hard to tell/predict this before. It can be hazy at times. I have been coming here for more than 30 years, in my high school era having many fun times with friends back then. Underage partying of course, but not any trouble making that I can recall.. At the top there is an amphitheater type setup for private events, weddings, etc. It is very well maintained year round. Do you know about the rotating house? Yes, it is here. There are several small dirt trails surrounding the area for better viewing angles and photos of the entire area. Just take a little time to explore. We prefer to park actually on the road just before the entrance, which makes it really quick to exit down the hill. One of Southern California's simple pleasures that still remains free! read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
When I was younger, I would come up here and pray when I felt like I needed to be close to God. I was having a very hard time one day, and I was praying to God and looking at the majesty of the views. My aunt gave me an old Polaroid camera, and I stood at the cross to take a photo of it, and in the background appeared an image I've always thought it looked like a guardian angel with a sword strap to the side. Pretty powerful. This photo is circa1986. read more
1 year ago
An incredible 360 view of the city! Great place for photos and a sunset view. There's a short hike around the mountain and a small concert venue. I came to read and enjoy the sunset on a Saturday night and parking was totally easy. But beware! It's mostly dusty....I made the mistake of wearing white sneakers (don't make the same mistake) read more
7 years ago
Best place to see the city, exercise & chill, a date. There's even yoga here and events as well. Parking can be sketchy either get lucky or park along side as many do where it says No Parking. One way on one way out. Great for photography! read more
3 years ago
This mountain top has amazing 360 views, it's peaceful, beautiful native plants, historic amphitheater and walking up to the cross was inspirational! My husband asked me to marry him up there years ago. It's still just as beautiful and inspiring . We volunteer up there as gardeners caring for the native plants. read more
5 years ago
Try biking up this hill. Just wow! I want to be able to go all the way up without jumping off. Once on top, the scenery is beautiful. At night it looks like gems on black velvet. Great place to have peace and chill out There is also an amphitheater at the top. I have seen many plays here and plan to see more in the future. read more
This place is a destination jewel of the East County. It was a cool place to go to in High School decades ago and now our grandkids love going there. The 360 degree view is just amazing. Morning sunrises and evening sunsets are pretty fantastic here. And if you want some time alone for dialing down your spirit, there are lots of places to sit and find rest. Or just enjoy the scenery! If you ever see an advertisement for a performance at this theatre, be sure to go. It's a venue like no other under the stars high above the city lights. Very romantic and inspiring. And a fun outing! I've taken so many pics up here. I'll have to dig thru my albums and post them here. My only drawback for Mt Helix is the lack of parking spaces. Way too few. ...but, I guess that's one way of keeping it from being overrun. I love the peace found at the top. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful and serene park. It is a place where you want to go for mediation or just for calmness and relaxing. read more
I drove up the the top of mount Helix and just park right on the side where it say no parking for 10mins to take some sun set pictures haha. This is what most people do because there is really no other place to park. Overall, a nice little area to catch a quick sunset because of the parking issue. read more
10 years ago
This place is awesome from the drive up, to the views and the fresh air. I always wanted to come here but was always busy doing something else so one day I said today I'm going to Mt. Helix. I read a few reviews so I knew that parking was going to be an issue and yes it was. I didn't think San Diego had that many trees until I came to the area of Mt. Helix. It was so relaxing and about 15 degrees cooler which I'm a fan of. The drive up was nice because you could see El Cajon and La Mesa. I went around sunset and there were a lot of people there who were parking on the side of the street which I did as well. Good luck finding a spot in the parking lot because there's only about six or so. There's rocks everywhere and watch where you step and put your hands at. You also have to go to the top next to the cross for the best views. I will for sure be back and make sure you make a donation to keep this park going. There's a brown donation box next to the parking lot. read more
A gem in La Mesa :) Came to watch the sunset a few times, and here are some of my notes for you Yelpers! - There is a pseudo parking lot that fits about 9-12 cars - Be careful when parking along the hill, cops actually come around sunset time to give tickets - It starts getting busy about 15-20 minutes before sunset - stairs are a great way to burn calories and tone up your bum - Dogs are allowed - There is a porta potty at the bottom of the stairs - Clean, relatively speaking - There's a mini trail - super easy! Would definitely recommend this to many :) Always a great go-to for sunset views! read more
7 years ago
Man, I use to visit this place when I was in high school. Been a while, but the place is still the same as I remember. I my would be awesome if they had a liken snack shop or something up here and more tables. They do have a portly potty up here guys, just Incase. This place would be a really awesome spot for leg day!!!! The stares are not as elevated, but still great for that cardio ;) read more
6 years ago
Love this spot for working out & peaceful views. I went around noon on a weekday, so I had no issues with parking. There's a portable toilet available on site. read more
3 years ago
Did you know that in the year 2013, this year, Mt. Helix Park earned a gold star award for Best of East County? No really it did, look: (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/mt-helix-park-la-mesa?select=DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew#DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew) It is not a surprise, given its inspiring panoramic views, its natural landscaped amphitheater, and its historical intrigue. The park has a small but very pleasant and eye pleasing trail named after Mary Carpenter Yawkey, which was originally built as her memorial. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/mt-helix-park-la-mesa?select=DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew#uASm48BWz3xQulP9raYLxg) Scattered around the park, are strategically placed picnic tables for families or individuals to enjoy under the sun or shade. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/mt-helix-park-la-mesa?select=DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew#DgaMKzL25Uh4OuKn6Sey7w) I like to go and do the stairs. You start at the bottom and go up and back down, and back up and down until you get to the other side. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/mt-helix-park-la-mesa?select=DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew#nhwePkXjR_SMG-BEp52axw) Talk about some serious cardio, and if you forget your bottled water, they have a drinking fountain waiting for you half way down the opposite end. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/mt-helix-park-la-mesa?select=DQ-fGDzyCnVEr9QorkgIew#mWt5dp5aF46JqBHxKVNZnw) I've been coming to this park since I was a child, not to many years ago I may say. My fond memories are coming with friends and girl friends to watch the sunset, hang out and shoot the breeze, and sometimes just come to clear the mind. It is that inspirational. read more
This little park is cute and quaint... A great area to live in and have picnics here. For those who do not have the ability to climb one of the many little mountains in San Diego, this place gives people the opportunity to check out the elevated 360 degree views of the San Diego area they may otherwise be unable to see. There is the white cross at the top, which makes for great pictures if clouds are in the sky. Parking is very limited with 30 minutes to visit. FYI. I wouldn't go out of the way to visit this place unless you can't hike a mountain and see the pretty views of San Diego. Then, you should visit here. :) read more
15 years ago
I love Mt. Helix. The drive through the residential area is just a short drive and the views are amazing. Great place to just sit and enjoy the views, a picnic, the sunrise, or sunset or the city iights. YouTube Video of Mt. Helix: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXQifCS6_NE read more
Stunning 360 degree views all the way to the ocean, and all around. Really unique. Beautiful during the day, sunset, or even in the dark w/ the stars, moon and twinkling city lights. Very cool amphitheater w/ great Christian Community Theater (CCT) musical performances, and various other events, including morning yoga, throughout the year. It is a beautiful place for a picnic, in that the view is amazing, but unfortunately no grass, so you're basically sitting in the asphalt. Virtually no parking up top, but you can park at the fire station lot and walk up - it's a steep climb, but great views. And for shows, they generally have free shuttles from firehouse lot, Russell lot and Grossmont lot. Overall, a really beautiful and unique view of San Diego! read more
8 years ago
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Ask the Community - Mt Helix Park
Is there parking at the base and then walk up to the peak ? If so what is the address of the parking area?
Yes! You can park at the corner of Vivera and Mt. Helix Drive and walk up to the top. There is a dirt lot there owned by the Mt. Helix Park Foundation you can park in.
Is there a bathroom/port-a-potty here?
Yes, there is a port-a-potty located near the parking lot.
Review Highlights - Mt Helix Park
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