Good hike, the trails get a little confusing and could be marked a little better, but a nice hike,…read morenot very challenging, but a nice walk through nature, one trail, that starts to climb is fairly narrow, be careful. I saw a snake, didn't look threatening, but I don't know much about snakes, other favorite being the black mamba #Kobe!!! Another hiker alerted us that she had seen a few snakes on the way coming up, we were headed down, but didn't run into them. One trail runs along a creek, very peaceful. A wedding was taking place at the oak trail center. There's also a nice lap you could do around the reservoir, check out the personalized rock collection or leave one of your own!

If you're looking to do an easy nature trail walk, I recommend this one! Right from the start you…read moresee a lake scenery with lots of trees and plants on the water. There were trees with yellow leaves because it's fall. Didn't see much wild life. There were bridges and streams. No steep hills. Beautiful views and atmosphere.

Situated 1365' above San Diego and east of downtown, Mt. Helix Park is a hidden gem to most who…read morelive 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.

The park is so well maintained and easy to adventure at. Dog friendly, with trash cans clean and…read morearound. Others were so friendly when I asked how to park at the bottom and walk up! I ended up driving up this time with my dog and enjoying the morning here.

At 1,369 ft, Pyles Peak is located near Cowles Mountain…read more There are a couple of ways to get to this hike, but I went through Cowles. I believe the other way is going to less trafficked route, the Barker Trail. At Cowles summit, if you follow the path near the antenna, it will lead you to Pyles Peak--a quieter 1.5+ mile out-and-back hike from Cowles summit. To get to Cowles summit you can either take the scenic route, which is a 1.5 mile hike to the summit or the service road, which is a 1 mile hike. There is a parking lot you can park in or street parking. There's restrooms at the entrance near the scenic side. There is not much shade so be aware of that. This hike is kept very clean. I just find it to be a little more on the boring side. This was the last hike I did for the five peak challenge! That could have influenced my feelings towards this hike.

Instead of following the traditional route of hiking up the front (south) side of Cowles Mountain,…read moreI started my trek from the end of the Mesa Service Road on the east side of Mission Trials Regional Park. The Mesa Trail actually had more shade to protect you from the heat and sunlight than if you started from the main trail head at the corner of Golfcrest Drive and Navajo Road. The tough part began when you ascended west on the Cowles Service Road towards the summit of Cowles Mountain. It was nearly a mile stretch in which the incline became rather steep in a couple of spots. As soon as you pass the top of Cowles Mountain, you keep going west for a few hundred more yards before you see a sign that directs you to a trail towards Pyles Peak. From that point, it was another 1.5 miles of decline and incline before you reached the summit of Pyles Peak. About halfway into this part of the trek, there was a view point (i.e. Pyles View Peak) where you could branch off back east for maybe a 1/4 mile until the path ended in a cul de sac. At that location, you get a wonderful view looking back towards the top of Cowles Mountain. It's a nice rest stop and photo opportunity. There was about 3/4 mile left to hike before reaching Pyles Peak. A sign posted 1/4 mile from the summit warned hikers that this was a difficult climb. I actually didn't find it any worse than the ascent up the Cowles Service Road. The sign at the Pyles Peak summit indicated you were 1379 feet above sea level. After taking several pictures and eating some snacks, I started my journey back to where my vehicle was. In total, this hike took approximately 3.5 hours with breaks to cover about 6.5 miles.

I had read this was a secret spot in La Mesa where folks could get a nice bump in their heart rate…read moreby ascending and descending these steps. The La Mesa Public Stairs were located on a hillside neighborhood in which the layout was essentially pedestrian connectors between three different terrace levels. You can park curbside on any street and then stroll over to the foot of the first set of stairs on Windsor Dr. The climb was pretty shaded when I came on a mid-afternoon, but it wasn't long before my breathing picked up. I occasionally use the stairmill at the gyms where I exercise. However, the machine can't simulate the elevation change that occurs when you are out in nature's terrain. At the top of each set, you had to cross a small street to reach the beginning of the next steps. I was able to go up and down one time in less than 10 minutes. If you repeat the path and do multiple circuits, then one can easily spend between 30 minutes to a full hour of cardio burn. The views near the top were pretty as you get a glimpse of some of La Mesa's upscale properties. Kids and leashed dogs would enjoy the climb as this is a family friendly activity.

SECRET STAIRS THAT ARE PUBLIC…read more I was introduced to the secret stairs history and all of the secret terraces on Meet Up (Saturday Morning Weekly Hike-La Mesa's Secret Stairs!). I hope you support the group). THE ENCHANTED TREE Totally worth 60 minutes at the beginning your day. Then to top the icing on the cake you'll be enchanted by The Enchanted Tree.  On the Meet Up you will learn historical tips about the stairs and the community. MOST GOALS CAN BE ACHIEVED 1000 steps, and I kept thinking, "That's how we reach our goals. One step at a time." I'm on step 222. Or 22. You got me step 2. But at least I'm stepping forward.  DO I NEED A DEFILIBRATOR? It's more of a walk rather than a workout though your heart rate increases. You can stay after the Meet Up and complete your own workout, which will likely be rigorous.  I would totally make this a stop for nonlocals visiting. You could seriously wear leisure clothes like jeans or workout wear. Actually, after the secret stairs I went to 24 hour and had an invigorating barbell session. I wore Doc Martens and that was suffice. Captipating views of the sky, the aweness of individual homes, landscapes, and land structures.  It was sort of like walking in nature.  Respect the residents-please. "I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination." -- Jimmy Dean #juken123 #onestepatatime #secretstairsthatarepublic #alternativetonature #respecttheresidents #theenchantedtree

Lake Murray is so beautiful and I enjoy coming here! I've been here a few times to walk the trail…read moreand also sit by the lake and read on a nice sunny morning. The birds can be a bit annoying, but guess that comes with the great outdoors. Definitely a nice spot to chill, take a walk and get those steps in. This area feels safe and well maintained. When I went, there weren't too many people, so it was pretty peaceful. The trail can get busy and there are bathrooms along the way (I didn't use them though) There's plenty of parking here, but just be sure you leave on time for closing. I've heard they lock up and it can be an issue with getting out. (not sure how true this is but I won't chance it) There is more parking elsewhere with trail access too, I just personally haven't found it.

Lake Murray Service road walking trail is one of my go-to workouts--about 5.5 miles to the locked…read moregate and back. After entering the main entrance, follow the road and turn right where you will see a yellow locked gate. This is the beginning of the paved walking trail. There's plenty of parking at the main entrance, and the paved trail is perfect for walkers, runners, bikers, and even kids tagging along. It's basically a choose-your-own-adventure: bird watching, fishing (permit required), or just a casual picnic. Bonus perks: lots of porta potties and benches when you need a breather. If you're holding out for a real restroom, there's one just past the second baseball field--plan accordingly. Photo is attached to show where to locate this. Heads up: the main gate is closed every 2nd Tuesday of the month, but don't panic--you can still access the trail through the neighborhood entrance off Baltimore Drive. Hope you enjoy this walking trail as much as I do.

A trail that isn't meant for sight seeing and fun. This trail is definitely meant for sport. 12…read moremiles out & back you get little downtime as you will be engaged on your hike to the peak, as well as your hike back to the parking lot. The Lot does open at 8am but many hikers park on the side of the road. Start early, definitely before sunrise, the sun will definitely become a factor. Pack more water than expected. Temperature's do rise fast and there is little shade. Please wear proper hiking shoes as there are parts of the trail have a lot of loose rocks. Hiking poles are definitely a plus. I recommend using the weather app to know what kind of weather you will be in the day of your hike and so you could wear proper attire. The earlier you start your hike the better, stay safe!!

Completed the Memorial Day Warrior challenge and this mountain continues to be one of my favorite…read more It's is like a roller coaster ride with many ups and downs. I didn't take a lot of picture, but it was an absolutely gorgeous day... 73 degrees high. The rangers were out but I came too late to collect my badges. maybe next year. What a great event and it really brings together the local hiking community. Much thanks to the county of San Diego Parks! Please come and create your own adventure.

This is a nice trail located being the Rancho San Diego Town Center. It's not the largest but it…read moregets the job down if you need to walk your dog, walk yourself, go for a run, and do some biking. It's a nice nature walk as well. It runs from corner of Jamacha Rd. and Willow Glen Dr., and all the way to Campo Rd. behind the McGrath Family YMCA. The trail is pretty well kept and had a good decomposed granite surface, range markers, and has appropriate fencing to keep individual away from the nearby natural reserve. The natural landscaping is very nice and don't be surprise if you see a rattle snake, squirrel, and or a road runner hanging out.

One part of the trail starts/ends next to Staples on Jamacha Rd & Cuyumaca College Drive West (and…read morethat is the address used for the listing). From there, the trail perpendicular to Jamacha leads to Campo Rd. near the Sweetwater River Bridge. From there, it is possible to access National Wildlife Refuge trails or cross the "highway" for trails starting by the old bridge - both of which are also worth exploring and enjoying. The section of the memorial trail starting in the Staple's parking lot parallel to Jamacha ends at Willow Glen Dr. (which then just has unimproved dirt sidewalk until bear the Cottonwood Golf Club) - with no protective railing (and is not really a trail nor part of this listing). Parking in the Staples lot is free and easy to find.

Hubby and I hiking spot Cowels mountain beautiful place to…read morevisit Bring your hiking boots and night light for evening trails after sunset

A local and tourist fav!…read more Cowles Mountain is a San Diego classic and the highest point in the city (~1,593 ft.), which means this short hike hits HARD! The main trail is about 3 miles round-trip with a steady, rocky incline. Be prepared to have your heart pumping fast with some heavy breathing. Who needs a warm up? Just come here! There are other trails in the surrounding areas and the popular 5-Peak Challenge. It's on my bucket list for sure! Cowles is one of the most popular hikes in San Diego, so the timing matters. Early weekday mornings are ideal unless you enjoy crowds. Parking is usually easy with street spots and a small lot if you're lucky. There's a restroom, but not fully stocked or well-maintained. So use if absolutely necessary. Bring enough water (especially on a hot day), wear good shoes with grip since it can get rocky along the trail. Don't forget to stop a few times to admire the view on the way up! The payoff is worth it. You get a 360 degree view of San Diego from the oceans to the mountains. Short, steep, sweaty, and effective! 4 stars on a good day and still one of my favorite quick workouts to get the adrenaline pumping!