Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Extension — Attraction in San Diego

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Extension is a hidden gem for hikers and nature lovers. Although this property is part of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, it is a detached, stand-alone property. It does not have beach access. It does not have a visitor center. It does not have restrooms or drinking water. It does, however, have a bunch of great trails. The Reserve Extension has four major trails: The Mar Scenic Trail is a north/south trail that has trailheads at the end of Mar Scenic Drive in the north and the end of Del Mar Scenic Parkway in the south. The Margaret Fleming Nature Trail and Red Ridge Loop Trail are to the east of the Mar Scenic Trail while to the west you’ll find the Daughters of the American Revolution Memorial Trail (“DAR” on park signs). I’d say that, overall, the trails are easy/moderate to hike. There are a few rough spots on the trails where erosion has kicked in but nothing that can’t be walked over or around while staying on the trail. Signage along the trails was pretty good. The trails are very clean: no trash at all and, because pets (dogs, horses, elephants, etc.) aren’t allowed, doo-doo dodging is not necessary. Unlike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, the Reserve Extension does not charge a fee to enter. Free street parking is available at the Mar Scenic...

This is probably one of the most beautiful hikes in the area. The trails are on the easier side, so you can spend your time enjoying the landscape and views.

While the trails are all short, if you treat it as a loop and hit each of the trails, you can get in 3-4 miles and spend a decent amount of time here.

I'm almost afraid to post about it, because one of the best things about this place is how few people are usually here. There's no trash, no huge groups of people who refuse to allow people going in the other direction by (ever heard of single file, jfc). No jerks playing music etc. It's just rocks, dirt, plants, wild life, and beautiful vistas.

If you're into nature and respectful of the environment, wild life, and other humans, then you'll love it.

If you are loud, leave your trash everywhere, play your music over loud speakers in public, or have 0 respect for wild life and other humans, then you'll hate it. Go to Sunset...

Not all that many people know about this State Reserve extension unless you live around here. The locals in the neighborhood use it as a short cut to walk down to the beach or up to go to the elementary school at the top. Very peaceful and much like the main park less all the visitors. The main park is super busy during these covid days. Local coastal brush and Torrey pies trees in abundance. Lovely. Not a very long...