Where to Run in San Diego

Where to Run in San Diego: Mission Trails

  • Difficulty: 10
  • Destination: 10
  • Distance: Various

Are you ready for it? Let the games begin. Dun-dun, dun-dun-dun-dun (queue “Jaws” theme song). These trails will have no mercy on your legs, yet leave you coming back for more. You could find a new bend to explore every time you traverse these hills – or should we call them mini-mountains? Rocky, hilly paths offer an incline right from the start, as well as the occasional creek crossing to keep things interesting. Steep, grueling climbs give you what you came for, if you dared attempt to run these routes. Silver lining? The acclaimed challenge does not disappoint. Views atop the peaks are well worth your effort. Pick your peak: Cowles, Pyles, Kwaay Paay, North and South Fortuna. Or, summit them all to check off the 5-Peak Challenge. As heard along the trails: “Runnable?” 

  • Restrooms: Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center
  • Parking: Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center

Photo courtesy of KPBS.org