Health & Fitness
JULY 15, 2024 (Updated Dec 2, 2022)
10 San Diego Biking Clubs for Every Type of Cyclist
With miles of coastal roadways, bike paths, and mountain bike trails, San Diego is home to a wealth of diverse clubs and meetups for bikers of all abilities
In spite of its reputation as a quintessential, laid-back southern California beach town, America’s Finest City is perpetually on the move, especially when powered by pedals. With miles of coastal roadways, bike paths, and mountain bike trails, it’s no surprise that San Diego is home to a diverse cycling community with clubs and meetups for bikers of all interests and abilities. Whether riding road, trail, or somewhere inbetween, these group rides are sure to help you find your peloton—or at least your two-wheeled wolfpack.
Courtesy of Moment Bicycles
Moment Bicycles
Old Town, Carmel Valley
Featuring shop locations in Old Town and Carmel Valley, and group rides leaving from both throughout the week, Moment Bicycles is a good option for both novice and experience riders. Early bird roadies can check out Moment’s 6:30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday morning rides which treat riders to gorgeous views of San Diego Bay, as they make their way through Point Loma to Cabrillo National Monument, culminating in hill repeats on Tide Pool Hill before returning to Old Town.
Those looking to get off the beaten path (or for a later start) can join Moment’s mountain bike rides, which take place at 8:30 a.m. on the fourth Saturday of every month. While the route each month will vary, the ride typically leaves from the Carmel Valley location and details will be communicated through Moment’s website in advance. Moment also hosts Sunday morning rides with different routes each week.
San Diego Bicycle Club
La Jolla
If skinny tires and spandex are your style, the San Diego Bicycle Club has just the peloton for you. Organizing events since 1976, SDBC continues to host Saturday morning meetups with seven different group and distance options for road riders at all stages in their cycling progression. Elite riders can push the pace with peers in the A Group, while hardcore roadies and weekend warriors will find their cadence in the B and C Groups. The Development Groups offer new riders the chance to build skills while focusing on safe group riding dynamics and techniques like paceline rotation. Each group leaves from UC Cyclery in La Jolla and riding starts at 8:30 a.m.
Courtesy of No Spandex Saturday
No Spandex Saturday
Normal Heights
Beloved Normal Heights cycling establishment, Uptown Bicycles, may have recently closed shop, but that hasn’t stopped its former proprietors from continuing their No Spandex Saturday rides. As the name suggests, leave the lycra at home—this casual group ride is about the simple pleasures and camaraderie of enjoying the city on two wheels. Each week’s route is posted in advance on the group’s Instagram page and tends to feature a stop or two for refreshments at local favorites.
Courtesy of Gravelstoke
Gravelstoke
Location Varies
There’s enough asphalt in San Diego to keep even the most tenacious spinner satisfied, but sometimes the greatest thrills in life require taking the road less pedaled, which is where Gravelstoke comes in. An online hub for gravel riders, racers, bikepackers, and anyone else who enjoys adventure on two wheels, Gravelstoke hosts gravel rides and events on a monthly basis. Routes and locations are posted in advance on Gravelstoke’s event calendar and feature a mix of gravel, trail, and road riding conditions.
Courtesy of San Diego Bicycle Club
Fiesta Island Tracklocross
Fiesta Island
It’s often said that the simplest things in life are the best, and the best things in life are free—so why not apply that to biking, too? With no entry fees, no race numbers, and no registration, the Fiesta Island Tracklocross Association’s monthly Saturday race series has everything you want, and nothing you don’t. Starting at 9:30 a.m. the first Saturday of every month, a bike and the willingness to pedal for glory are all that is required to enter. Any type of bicycle is allowed, however “tracklocross” bikes—hybrid track/cyclocross bikes—are encouraged.
Adams Avenue Bicycles hosts multiple rides that are certain to keep even the heartiest velo fanatics busy. Drop bar banshees, gravel grinders and mountain mashers will all find something to suit their styles throughout the month. Roadie watt watchers can spin until their heart’s content each week on the Monday Smackdown road rides. Leaving from Adams Avenue Bicycles at 6:45 p.m., this ride is all about showing up and throwing down over the course of 26.88 miles before returning to the shop.
Mountain bikers and gravel riders seeking a midweek session will appreciate the DirTNR rides occurring each Tuesday night during the velodrome racing season. Riders link up at the velodrome at 5:15 p.m. before rolling out for a casual hour-long ride through Florida Canyon, returning to the velodrome in time to catch some track racing action.
Those who want to take their riding further afield will enjoy the monthly Sunday Field Trips, typically scheduled for the second Sunday of each month. Each trip will explore a different part of the county with locations and routes shared ahead of time on their website.
Awarewolf Full Moon Bike Ride
Location Varies
With the tagline, “We’re a pack. Not a mass,” Awarewolf is a collection of cyclists led by Charlie Sears and Ricardo Juarez, with the aim of increasing bicycling participation, safety and, of course, awareness, especially between riders and drivers in San Diego. In keeping with this mission, Awarewolf hosts a monthly Full Moon Bike Ride open to riders of all styles, from casual cruisers to fixed gear fanatics. The time, location and routes vary month-to-month and are posted in advance on Awarewolf’s website, but one thing is certain: when the Awarewolves are out, even the moon cycles.
Courtesy of SheWolves
SheWolves
Balboa Park
The Awarewolves aren’t the only pack of pedalers in town; the SheWolves bring their own lycanthropic flair to biking. A cycling club for women, trans, femme, and gender nonconforming riders, the SheWolves focus on fostering inclusion and allyship in the San Diego cycling scene. Thursday night group rides leave from the Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park at 7:15 p.m. and end at a different bar or brewery for post-ride libations each week.
Courtesy of Rouleur Brewing
Rouleur Brewing Social Ride
North Park
Given its connections to cycling (its name is a French term for “having wheels,” and was later adopted by racers), it’s no surprise that North County beer staple and bike themed brewery, Rouleur, hosts a social ride every Thursday night from its North Park tap room. The ride begins at 6:00 p.m. and follows a 17-mile route, ending back at Rouleur for beer and refreshments.
Courtesy of San Diego County Bicycle Coalition
Bonus: San Diego Bike Coalition
Various Locations
The San Diego Bike Coalition does essential advocacy work to ensure the region’s bicycling culture continues to grow and thrive by championing projects to improve cycling infrastructure, access to bike lanes, and policies that benefit riders. While the Bike Coalition doesn’t host a dedicated weekly ride, they do publish a robust monthly calendar of biking events in the area, ranging from local races to classes on safe riding skills and bicycle maintenance.
New year, new fitness goals, right? Like many people, we’re starting the new year with a focus on health and staying active. No matter what your fitness objectives may be, there are plenty of activities around town prepared to help you achieve them. From more traditional gym settings to unique ways of getting your body moving, these nine San Diego studios, wellness programs, and activities will help you start the new year off right.
Start the year on the right foot with Activate House, the San Diego fitness studio and gym located in North Park offers spin, sculpt, and yoga classes. Calling themselves a “new-age fitness studio,” AH emphasizes intentional training through movement and encourages mental balance and well-being. The sense of community the studio cultivates is accentuated with eucalyptus towels, a juice bar, and highly trained staff.
2855 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92104
Courtesy of Black Girls Run
Black Girls Run
Hit the pavement with Black Girls Run, a community that’s working to tackle obesity and motivate women to get out and move their bodies. Created in 2009, Black Girls Run has served the San Diego fitness scene as a resource for those looking to practice a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re an avid gym-goer or looking to start a fitness regimen. With national meet-ups already planned throughout the year, this movement is determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the community.
Regardless of your fitness level, Body University in La Mesa caters to individuals’ needs and goals. The boutique gym offers small group private training services (6-8 people at a time) and focuses solely on one-hour weight lifting sessions. Though open to all gender identities, you’ll most often find it packed with women only, which can be less intimidating for women who may be new to lifting. BU also offers body building competition services as well as customized nutrition programs and lifestyle guidance. With fitness equipment including free weights, cardio equipment, personal training, and highly trained staff, you’re sure to achieve your wellness goals.
A staple in the San Diego fitness scene, CorePower Yoga offers both yoga and high-intensity strength training classes. Their newest class, Strength X focuses on helping you build lean muscles via targeted weight circuits and invigorating breath work. Five San Diego studios are hosting Strength X classes currently, and the Point Loma studio also offers scholarships to the CorePower Yoga Teacher Training program for BIPOC.
Various locations
Courtesy of Wheelchair Dance Organization Inclusive Dance
Wheelchair Dance Organization Inclusive Dance
Wheelchair Dance Organization (WDO) Inclusive Dance is making dance more accessible for everyone. The nonprofit organization works to decrease feelings of isolation among those living with disabilities by building a community of dancers at any and all levels. The variety of dance classes offered—Latin jazz, samba reggae, hip hop, Bollywood—are free, taught by professionals, and include modifications for those in wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
Courtesy of The Experience Fitness and Mobility Studio
The Experience Fitness and Mobility Studio
When the Experience Fitness and Mobility Studio came onto the San Diego fitness scene, they were dedicated to creating a safe space for anyone wanting to reach their health and fitness goals, regardless of identity, race, age, sexual preference, or athletic ability. The openly LGBTQ, wife-owned gym offers a place to reach your fitness aspirations. With a variety of training styles and methodology, you’ll build muscle, improve your range of motion, and eliminate pain. Beyond physical fitness, studio recognizes the inclusion of mental and emotional well-being for overall health and wellness.
1264 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
Courtesy of Madhouse Dance
Madhouse Dance
Spice up your workouts with dance fitness classes at Madhouse Dance. The nightclub-inspired studio is a welcome place to try out fitness choreography and get your heart racing through movement. Daily classes include chair choreography, beginners heels, and the studio’s flagship dance cardio. These classes are only open to women, non-binary, and femme-identifying individuals. If you want to try out Madhouse Dance from home, their website also features on-demand dance workouts.
Jordyn Berg is a freelance writer whose favorite topics include food and travel. A Pacific Northwest native, she delights in exploring the best of San Diego, by searching for hidden gems, experiencing must-try restaurants, and soaking in the city’s amazing views.
On Florida Drive, which bisects Balboa Park, but not extending beyond Park Boulevard on the west side and Pershing Drive on the east, there is a spider web of trails in Florida Canyon. If you’re willing to explore it, you can connect upwards of seven miles of trails, depending on how you link them up. Since there’s no set route, use any available stretch of dirt pathway to get in around an hour of fairly strenuous riding.
Park in the parking lots by the Morley Field baseball and softball fields. To start, ride in the direction of the tennis courts and on toward the dog park, skirting its edge and diving into the trail on the far left corner, which is the southwest side of the dog area. The immediate cobble-filled downhill will get you loosened up a bit.
Photo Credit: James Murren
Stay straight, never making any hard turns. The trail will twist and turn as you pass turnoffs, but stay the course. If you do, about a mile later you will end up down at the intersection of Pershing Dr., 26th St., and Florida Drive. Staying on the dirt, look to your left and note the single track that climbs up alongside Pershing Dr. Take it. Enjoy the wildflowers if they’re poppin’.
It is about a half-mile climb up a tight and fairly narrow single track. Back down at the three-way intersection, go right, back in the direction that you came. As you work your way back through, at about the half-mile mark, turn left and cross over Florida Dr. The crossover occurs slightly beyond Zoo Place ahead of the trail entrance. It’s a little past Zoo Place, going north, on the west side.
Again, dive in and get ready for cobbles. Follow the trail as it bends to the right. At this point, there is a main trail going north, but you’ll see other trails jumping off as you go. I tend to stay low and keep close to the stream. When I reach the north end, crossing over Morley Field Drive, I slowly pedal the Little Eden Trail. It’s very short but oh so beautiful with the big trees and shady canopies.
At this point, turn around and cross back over Morley Field Drive. Then go up the steep incline/hill to your right. Up top, it will come to a T intersection, at which point, go left. From here, go across the top.
Photo Credit: James Murren
From there, it’s a free-for-all as to what to do next. You can double up again and ride what you rode earlier. One typical route I do is after crossing Florida Drive at Zoo Place, I go north on the trail and take the immediate right-hand trail that climbs up and up. It’s a switchback that can be grueling, especially on a single-speed.
Up top, turn right and ride the dirt road, heading south. On a clear day, you can see the Coronado Bridge and distant Coronado Islands in Mexican waters. It’s a stunning view when there’s no marine layer or haze. From there, look around and wander your way back to wherever you started. There are other trails up top that drop down. You can’t really get lost.
James Murren is an award-winning adventure/travel writer, with nearly three decades of independent journalism experience. He's often having a good time in our local mountains, deserts and waters, when he's not teaching classes at SDSU.
Your choice of surf break is a very personal decision. Each spot comes with its stereotypes—are you a grom, noserider, or Wavestorm warrior? From localized reefs to kooky beach breaks, the last 14 years I’ve spent surfing in San Diego have taught me that each spot truly has its own vibe.
What does your favorite San Diego surf spot say about you?
Tourmaline
The Malibu of San Diego
Dubbed as the ultimate old man spot and San Diego’s Malibu, Tourmaline is a longboarder’s heaven. If your board is smaller than 7 feet, go home. In the lineup you can find guys who have been surfing Tourmaline for the last 40+ years and show no signs of stopping. Hanging ten and gracefully maneuvering across a cruising 20+ second wave is irresistible enough for many to fight the crowds and congested streets of Garnett. Good luck snagging waves from the locals who were around to remember Jack Murphy Stadium.
The Uniform: 10ft nose rider log, Greg Noll striped swim trunks, and a nose covered in zinc
Photo Credit: John O’Nelio
Sunset Cliffs
The Point Break
Sunset Cliffs isn’t just sunshine and sunsets. Sharks, rips, reef, rocks, and a hell of paddle out on a bigger day can make surfing here a real gauntlet. Perils aside, Sunset Cliffs is arguably one of the more consistent reef breaks in the county. Just make sure you have your surfboard repair shop on speed-dial for the inevitable dings that will riddle your board.
In the lineup, you’ll be sure to hear stories from the locals about how the waves used to be better, the beaches were less crowded, and a California burrito used to cost $7. The good ‘ole days. With the reef generating consistent waves year-round, Sunset Cliffs can boast some of the longest waves in the county.
The Uniform: 9’6 Longboard, dented like a copper Moscow mule mug, and noodle arms
Photo Credit: Randy Dible
Ocean Beach
The Venice Beach of San Diego
Ocean Beach feels like the most San Diego beach there is. A boardwalk with shops from another era, consistent waves, great food, lively bars, and drum circles on the beach. What’s not to love? In the water, you can find groms getting air on small waves, older guys putting their stake on the jetty, and beatniks riding the same board they did since the ’80s. Ocean Beach isn’t always the most welcoming of surf spots, so make sure to lock your car and bring your trusty self-defense weapon—or friend who will back you up in the lineup.
The Uniform: 30-year-old, beaten-up 6’5 shortboard with flame decals, tie-dye shirt, and a Rasta-colored poncho
Photo Credit: Ronaldo Brosas
Imperial Beach
Barrels, Burritos and Sewage Pipes
Unfortunately, the consistent pollution coming from the U.S./ Tijuana wastewater plant has caused lifeguards to keep those yellow “Sewage Contaminated Water” signs up year round. With all these hazards, Imperial Beach surfers are the ultimate lab rats—putting their lives on the line for the sake of science and shredding.
Years ago, I recall surfing in purple waves which were attributed to a “completely safe” water test from the Navy’s military lab located just up the strand. If your skin starts glowing after a surf session, visit your local hospital immediately, otherwise, head down to Palm Avenue for some of the best takeout Mexican food in San Diego.
The Uniform: 5’8 Retro fish surfboard and a bottle of antibiotics
Cardiff
Vegan and GMO-Free Waves
Locals here start their day with an acai bowl from the Cedros district, a freshly pressed vegetable juice from their neighborhood market, and a CBD gummy. Cardiff and the Encinitas region are packed with great peaks and reefs that gather surfers like moths to a flame, including legends like Rob Machado.
Paddle out just past the iconic Cardiff Kook statue and you’ll hear surfers chatting about how mid lengths are the best surfboards, becoming vegan has changed their life, wearing shoes is bad for you and surfer’s pitching their band’s latest folk album. Just remember not to drop in. Otherwise they’ll call you “The New Cardiff Kook.”
Need a spot to surf off the hangover? Then head to Pacific Beach. In the lineup, you can hear the chattering of college students and locals (still reliving their college days) planning their night of debauchery at the local bars. PB is the land of a thousand soft tops and is not a bad place to learn if you can avoid the crowds. People will ride anything that floats here. I mean anything. Hit pacific beach first thing in the morning while the locals are still recovering from the night before.
If you’re up for a 20-minute hike down the cliffs, encounters with nudists, occasional rockslides and daunting canyon sets, Black’s Beach is the spot for you. Known to some as California’s Pipeline, Blacks is the ultimate big wave spot for the adrenaline junkies in town. Though not every session at Black’s is a heart-pounding, arm-deflating, battle of man vs. nature, the spot is consistently one of the best in the county.
Among the lineup you can find characters like groms working on their sponsor videos, Kelly Slater lookalikes, your friend who insists that surfing naked brings them closer to nature, and of course your friend who owns a big wave gun and daydreams about catching that perfect 15-foot wave. Keep dreaming, my friend.
The Uniform: 7’2 big wave gun, DNR bracelet, no pants
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Cole Novak is an award-winning writer with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.
Renewable energy companies building hundreds of power plants. Biotech startups using artificial intelligence to create personalized medicine for children with rare diseases. Hospitality companies quietly powering thousands of local events. Consumer brands growing from beach-town startups into national businesses. These are the kinds of companies driving San Diego’s economy today, and the businesses recognized at this year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards offer a snapshot of where the region is headed.
Hosted July 23 by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards event honored four local companies for innovation, growth, and economic impact. More than 100 nominations from San Diego’s middle-market businesses were reviewed by a 10-person judging committee, with winners selected across four categories: startup, early-stage innovator, rising star, and established heavyweight.
Two-time honoree Jimbo Someck, founder of Jimbo’s organic grocery stores, also joined the event for a fireside chat on buying local, supporting emerging brands, and giving back to the community.
“San Diego’s strength comes from its makers and builders—the resilient people who endure great risks and overcome obstacles to build and scale a company,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager and Middle Market Banking at JPMorganChase & Co. “These awards aren’t just recognition; they spotlight the talent, grit, and innovation shaping our region’s future. By celebrating those who create and build, we foster connections and fuel the growth that keeps San Diego thriving.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Building the Infrastructure Behind Clean Energy
Heavyweight honoree SOLV Energy has grown alongside the country’s rapid investment in renewable power. “It’s an exciting time for SOLV Energy as we are experiencing significant growth,” says CEO George Hershman. “The business has doubled over the last year and has almost double-digit growth since its inception.”
The Rancho Bernardo-based company designs, builds, operates, and maintains utility-scale solar and energy storage facilities. Since its founding in 2008, SOLV Energy has built more than 500 power plants.
Growth has translated directly into hiring. About 200 employees work from the company’s local headquarters, including roughly 20 interns. “Our intern program is a big part of the way that we grow our workforce,” Hershman says. “Last year, 43 percent of our interns became full-time employees. We believe San Diego is a great community to build and grow a high-tech infrastructure and technology company because of the incredible workforce—the ability to attract top talent and draw from world-class universities.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Developing Medicine One Patient at a Time
Startup honoree La Jolla Labs is tackling one of medicine’s biggest challenges by developing personalized RNA therapeutics for patients with rare diseases—many of them children with neurological disorders like ALS. Using proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, the biotech company develops treatments tailored to each patient’s specific genetic mutation.
CEO Tamar Grossman says the recognition reflects how far the company has come despite limited resources. “We’re honored to be recognized for our ability to change and save patients’ lives and turn our lean startup into a clinical company with very minimal resources,” she says.
Grossman credits San Diego’s concentration of research institutions—including UC San Diego, the Salk Institute, and Scripps Research—with creating a pipeline of talent and collaboration. “San Diego is one of the world-leading centers for technology, genomics, and RNA therapeutics,” she says. “We have over 30 RNA therapeutics companies here, and we support each other and help with anything related to drug discovery.”
She says that collaborative spirit extends beyond formal partnerships. “You can walk around Torrey Pines, go into a café, and find colleagues from the industry and have an ad hoc conversation,” Grossman says. “That’s something very unique to San Diego.”
While Snake Oil Venue Company may not be a household name, chances are many San Diegans have attended one of its events. The early-stage innovator honoree has expanded from beverage catering and mixology consulting into venue management, operating Julep Venue in Mission Hills, Bramble Bay Venue in Imperial Beach, Vesper Venue, the Chapel at Liberty Station, and five outdoor venues throughout Liberty Station—more than 500,000 square feet of event space altogether.
“We do a lot of launch parties for corporations and new products,” says CEO Mike Esposito. “I really like working on the entrepreneur side of things, where new businesses are entering the San Diego market and looking to make a splash.”
Snake Oil has executed more than 16,000 events, employed more than 1,000 people, and partnered with more than 900 local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, entertainers, and other hospitality businesses. The company also works with many of San Diego’s nonprofits, museums, and cultural institutions. “We get to celebrate people’s most important moments,” Esposito says. “Whether that’s a wedding, celebration of life, or quinceañera, we’re fortunate to be involved in the community in so many different ways.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Growing a Beach-Town Brand into a National Business
Rising star honoree ALOHA Collection is proof that a simple idea can grow into a thriving company. Founded by two roommates who wanted a better way to carry wet swimsuits after a day at the beach, the lifestyle brand has grown into a business while maintaining strong year-over-year growth.
Now headquartered in Carlsbad, ALOHA Collection employs more than 100 people and operates its California flagship store in Encinitas, which is slated for a remodel. With roots in Hawaii, the company is known for its lightweight, splash-proof travel bags that have become a familiar sight on beaches in San Diego and beyond.
“‘Aloha’ is part of our name, but it’s also how we move through the world,” says CEO Lynna Barnard. “It’s how we show up for people, the way we travel, the way we give back.” Since day one, the company has maintained a 5 percent giveback to Hawaii conservation efforts, contributing millions of dollars over the years.
“I think what’s so inspiring about ALOHA Collection, and the founders in particular, is when you dream big, those dreams can come true when you work hard and trust in the universe,” Barnard says. “It’s inspiring to be a role model for other people wanting to start businesses from humble beginnings. Start small and watch it grow.”
Together, businesses like these form a cornerstone of San Diego’s economy—not only through the jobs and revenue they generate—but through the local workers they hire, vendors they support, and investments they make in the region. Their growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it ripples outward, strengthening the broader business community and the people who call San Diego home.
The Anderson Truck Trail (ATT) has been around for upwards of 80 years. Today, it is not a trail that you can actually drive a truck on from end-to-end. Technically, when mountain bikers, hikers, dog walkers and trail runners are on it today, they are actually using an unsanctioned trail. From top to bottom, there are various land use/title designations, including: United States Forest Service, Capitan Grande Reservation, San Diego River Park Foundation, and private property owners. Officially, there is no legal way to access the trail (but that does not prevent countless people from using it every day). I’m not saying you should go.
But if you did find yourself there, this is a trail riding experience that affords breathtaking views of the El Capitan Reservoir and surrounding foothills. The farther up you climb, the more rewarding the views. In late spring/summer, the rocky landscape becomes green and wildflowers pop. Winter’s rains course their way like lifeblood from the ground up through the trunks of oaks, the groves taking on a deeper green hue than the grasses.
Photo Credit: James Murren
To get started, some visitors park at the T intersection of Alpine Blvd. and Peutz Valley Rd. off of the I-8 near Alpine in a dirt parking area, or they simply park along the road below the 8 that runs overhead. They then pedal up Peutz Valley Rd. for about one mile, watching on their left for a single track entrance. They take it. They then descend at the outset a little ways, about a mile or so.
The trail has a cross-country-esque feel to it, meaning it dips and bends and has an uphill bump or two along the way. When it begins to noticeably climb, riders settle in for the relatively steep and long grind to the top, roughly three miles. With some chunk here and there, it is a perfect tech-lover’s training ground for boosting one’s ascending abilities.
Courtesy of Singletracks
The oak grove somewhere mid-way through the climb is a solid spot for a break to take in the views. At the summit, the trail opens up into what feels like a giant dirt parking lot. Again, the views. Not done? No problem.
The ATT continues, but riders will come upon a well-signed and fenced area when reaching the Capitan Grande Reservation. No continuing past that point. Riders here must turn around and head back in the direction they came up. Along the way, though, they can watch for unmarked single track to the sides of the ATT. If feeling adventurous, riders can take one, like those choose-your-own-adventure books of yesteryear.
Not feeling it? The descent on the original up hill trail is phenomenal. It’s fast, hair-raising, white-knuckle downhill glory at its best. One thing though: that little descent at the start of the ATT—after all the fun downhill ends—riders have to climb a little to get back out.
Photo Credit: James Murren
Riders who choose this trail should be respectful of locals by not parking at the trailhead. There is no legal parking there. Also, riders should not try to access Capitan Grande Reservation lands. Riders are not permitted to be there.
Anyone who is hungry after can take Alpine Blvd. into Alpine for about three miles. Order what sounds good at Tapatio’s and take it up the sidewalk to Mcilhenney Brewing Company. Order what sounds good there and then carry beer and Mexican food out back. Enjoy!
James Murren is an award-winning adventure/travel writer, with nearly three decades of independent journalism experience. He's often having a good time in our local mountains, deserts and waters, when he's not teaching classes at SDSU.
If you have lived and hiked in San Diego long enough, eventually you’ll find yourself in a hiking rut. Heading to the same places, doing the same trails, instead of branching out and trying something new.
That’s happened to me plenty of times. And while there is something beautiful about hiking the same routes over and over—noticing things you haven’t seen before, or seeing if you can reach a summit in a record time—it’s also important to explore. That’s the whole point of hiking, right?
This 4.7-mile, out-and-back hike takes you through a scenic canyon in Jamul with sweeping green hills on either side. Go in the spring and you’ll have beautiful views of wildflowers, and possibly a few small streams you’ll need to cross (pack a small towel and go barefoot across if you don’t want wet shoes and socks). There are a few steep places along the way, but the trail is well maintained and mostly not too challenging.
Directions: Start at the trailhead on Honey Springs Road off Campo Road.
Distance: 4.7 miles, out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs: Allowed
Details: Buy a California Department of Fish & Wildlife day pass for $5.66 online before you go.
Mother Miguel Mountain
This steep but relatively short climb near Chula Vista is a bit challenging, but the views from the top are totally worth it. On a clear day, you can see mountains to the east, Sweetwater Reservoir, and Chula Vista, plus the ocean and bay along with Mexico, Coronado, and downtown San Diego. The hike is best done before summer months because there’s no shade along the way, and there are steep switchbacks for part of the trail.
Directions: Start at Mount San Miguel Park on Paseo Veracruz.
Distance: 4.4 miles, out-and-back
Difficulty: Challenging
Dogs: Allowed
Details: Parking is free.
Tijuana Estuary
Forget Torrey Pines (OK, don’t forget it, because it’s also beautiful), this wide park along the ocean is way less crowded and still has beautiful views. You can hike along the US-Mexico border, winding your way around as many trails in the Tijuana River Valley as you’d like. Still perfectly pleasant as the weather gets warmer, this estuary is a great spot for bird watching and easy hiking with its flat trails.
Directions: Start on Imperial Beach Boulevard to follow the North McCoy trail or the full route.
Distance: For the longest hike, follow the 9.2-mile Valley Scenic Route, or do the shorter North and South McCoy trails.
Difficulty: Easy
Dogs: Allowed
Details: Parking is free. A trail map can be found here.
Claire Trageser has been writing for San Diego Magazine for 10 years. She also is a reporter at KPBS and writes for The New York Times, National Geographic, Marie Claire, Elle and Runner's World.
San Diego seniors are redefining retirement. In an era where staying active and connected is more important than ever, San Diego seniors are empowered to spend their golden years living life to the fullest. Aging gracefully in America’s finest city means luxury living, access to exceptional healthcare, and thoughtfully planned social activities that bring people together and build supportive networks. From vibrant, resort-like communities built around everyday life to senior-friendly ventures spanning city and shore, San Diego is full of opportunities to remain happy and healthy. Retirement isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning.
The Right Retirement Community
San Diego is home to some of California’s most sought-after retirement communities. Many of these communities feel more like luxury resorts than traditional senior housing, and focus on active aging, meaning overall well-being and quality of life are just as important as medical care. Amenities often include ocean views, fine dining, concierge services, wellness spas, lifelong learning programs, and full continuum-of-care options with specially trained medical staff. These communities ensure that San Diego seniors enjoy independence as well as a level of assistance appropriate to their individual needs. When it comes to aging gracefully, San Diego is the place to be.
Belmont Village Senior Living
Belmont Village Senior Living communities combine luxury hospitality and higher-acuity care services, including memory care and cognitive support. Experiences are tailored to each resident, including couples requiring different levels of care. Residents can expect chef-prepared dining, fitness and wellness programming, transportation services, social activities, and spaces designed to encourage connection and engagement. The community also works with thought leaders in the field to develop initiatives that empower residents to live life to the fullest.
Lantern Crest Senior Living
At Lantern Crest Senior Living, retirement is an opportunity to thrive. Nestled on over 30 beautifully landscaped acres in East County, Lantern Crest offers a variety of living options within a premier resort-style community. Residents enjoy an exceptional collection of amenities, including heated pools, fitness & wellness centers, movie theaters, chef-prepared dining, putting greens, dog parks, salons, social clubs, an on-site Sharp clinic, pharmacy services, and countless opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive. Lantern Crest is dedicated to delivering personalized service, meaningful experiences, and a lifestyle that empowers residents to live with purpose, independence, and joy.
Senior Resource Group
A chef-curated menu with healthy plant-forward options, holistic wellness programs, lifelong learning seminars, and a variety of thoughtfully designed social activities help set Senior Resource Group’s properties apart from the pack. Its La Vida Del Mar community in Solana Beach offers residents a high-end coastal lifestyle a stone’s throw from Old Del Mar and the Cedros Design District. La Vida Del Mar provides independent living and assisted living options, and as the CARF-accredited community in North County, prioritizes personalized onsite medical care, exceptional hospitality, and celebrating every resident.
Vi at La Jolla Village
Vi at La Jolla Village offers a resort-style retirement lifestyle in the heart of San Diego’s cultural attractions. Exceptional accommodations, upscale dining, and thoughtfully designed amenities support well-being and help residents live each day to the fullest. Plus, with a continuum of on-site care available at no additional charge,* residents can feel confident knowing that if their needs change, assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing are available right here. Dedicated rehabilitation services are also available to non-residents in a Medicare® certified environment.
*Care options are subject to ancillary fees for items such as extra meals and supplies. Annual, community-wide monthly fee increases also apply.
Aging Well … In Place
Homewatch CareGivers
Some seniors prefer the comfort of their own homes over retirement communities—no matter how luxurious the lifestyle may be. Homewatch CareGivers in northwest San Diego and Santee provides compassionate in-home care for peace of mind. With no minimum hour requirements, Homewatch makes it easy to get support, whether it’s a few hours a week or around-the-clock care. Care plans and services are tailored to help each senior maintain independence while accommodating their lifestyle, medical needs, and preferred living environment. Homewatch also offers technology solutions that connect clients with 24/7 support when they’re home alone.
