San Dieguito River Park — Attraction in San Diego

San Dieguito River Park (Coastal) is a great place to get close-up views of the San Dieguito Lagoon. There are three trails in the area. The River Path Del Mar starts/ends at the Grand Avenue Overlook and runs along San Dieguito Drive, crossing Jimmy Durante Boulevard and continuing along the river towards the coast. At one point there are railroad tracks that must be crossed to reach the coast. There are no signs encouraging nor discouraging the crossing of the tracks. Another trail is the short, planked Boardwalk that leads into the lagoon. The third trail, and the major attraction, is the Coast to Crest Trail. Google Maps calls the two previously mentioned trails “Coast to Crest” but signs on the ground indicate otherwise. Enter the trail from Jimmy Durante Boulevard. The trail is dirt/gravel, flat, and wide. It is clean and well-maintained. It’s an enjoyable walk/hike with plenty to observe. Flowers were in full bloom on the day I was there. The only negative comment I can make is about the noise pollution from the surrounding roadways – especially when approaching and walking under Interstate 5. The park doesn’t have any facilities. The Grand Avenue Lookout has 5 free parking spots (1 of which is handicap parking). A free public parking lot is at the corner San Dieguito Drive and Jimmy Durante Boulevard and is a short walk to all...

Trail Series, Part 3 The “Coast to Crest Trail” is located in Del Mar, CA and can be accessed in several places including at San Dieguito Park on San Andres Drive, just South of Via De La Valle. There is ample parking on the street and there is a large shopping center across the street so you won’t feel like you’re leaving your car in an isolated location. The dirt trail is entirely flat and welcomes walkers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians. There is a limited portion that is negatively impacted by noise from the 5 Freeway, but that section doesn’t last long. You should be aware that there is a tunnel section that takes you beneath the freeway. It is short, felt safe, and shouldn’t be an issue for you, but we wanted to make sure that you were aware. You’ll be only about a mile from the Pacific Ocean, so you’ll likely be greeted by some refreshing and salty breezes. Although our out and back journey traveled West and was a tad over 3 miles, it represents only a portion of the trail (in case you are interested in a more extended adventure). And that’s…Henry’s...

While there is much to see in the park, the endless droning of cars racing along Interstate 5 tends to disrupt the otherwise peaceful setting. The paths are minimal but easy and even, with no hills or even the slightest difficulty. This makes it attractive to a lot of walkers--a significant amount with dogs. Along the path, the wetlands are teeming with birds and it is ready to spot egrets, sand herons, whimbrels, ducks, ospreys, and the occasional blue heron. While you never feel too far from the busy streets, the park is a nice easy break with enough to look at to make...