🥾 Hiking the Ho Chi Minh Trail (a.k.a. Saigon Trail) in La Jolla 🌊🌵

Finally had time to check out this iconic trail on MLK Monday – and it did not disappoint! 📍 Trailhead: 9883 La Jolla Farms Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 🅿️ Free neighborhood street parking – plenty of spots available, and the surrounding mansions are absolutely jaw-dropping! 🏰✨ (Seriously, this area feels like a blend of Beverly Hills and coastal paradise). 🗺️ Trail Details: Duration: ~2 hours round trip (we took it slow and enjoyed the views 🥾📸) Difficulty: Moderate – some steep, loose sections requiring scrambling 🧗‍♀️ Footwear: Hiking boots or grippy shoes strongly recommended – it can get slippery! Best Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat + catch golden hour light 🌅 🌊 Why We Loved It: Stunning Ocean & Cliff Views: Sweeping panoramas of the Pacific and La Jolla’s rugged coastline 🌊⛰️ Unique Architecture: Pass by incredible estates – one even looks like it’s straight out of Aladdin! 🧞✨ Quiet & Secluded: Less crowded than other SD trails – perfect for a peaceful escape 🌿 Short but Rewarding: Great for a half-day adventure without draining your entire day ⚠️ Tips: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty – some sections involve sliding down sandy slopes! Bring water + sunscreen – shade is limited ☀️ No restrooms or facilities on the trail – plan ahead! Keep an eye out for wildlife – we spotted hawks and rabbits 🦅🐇 📸 Photo Ops: The cliff edge overlooking the ocean The “Aladdin castle” house (you’ll know it when you see it!) Wildflowers along the path in spring 🌸 #SanDiegoHikes #LaJolla #HoChiMinhTrail #HikingSD #SoCalTrails #WeekendAdventure #CaliforniaCoast #HiddenGems #TravelSD