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Best backpacking hiking trails in San Diego County
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Best backpacking hiking trails in San Diego County

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in San Diego County.

Most popular trails

1

Extra Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (14) · 4130.7 km · Est. 6 mth 12 day

2

Medium

Pacific Crest Trail - Pacific Crest Trail Southern Terminus

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 31.0 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

3

Easy

Secret Canyon Trail

San Diego County, California · star 0.0 (0) · 24.9 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

4

Extra Difficult

High Point via Oak Grove Trail

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 21.1 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

5

Difficult

Rabbit Peak via Villager Peak Trail

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 33.6 km · Est. 2 day

6

Easy

Sheep Canyon Campground via Sheep Canyon Road

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 18.1 km · Est. 4 hrs 4 min

7

Medium

Noble Canyon Trail

San Diego County, California · star 0.0 (0) · 14.1 km · Est. 4 hrs 10 min

8

Medium

South Clevenger Canyon Trail

San Diego County, California · star 4.0 (4) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 59 min

9

Easy

Barker Valley Spur

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (6) · 12.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 56 min

10

Easy

Highway 79

San Diego County, California · star 4.0 (6) · 17.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 10 min

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in San Diego County

Aurélien Morvant avatar

Pacific Crest Trail

TeddyBear · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

The most beautiful one Into the wild for months

Barton Strosin avatar

Pacific Crest Trail - Pacific Crest Trail Southern Terminus

TrailPinestracker63 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Secret Canyon Trail.

The Hon. Rosamond Erdman avatar

High Point via Oak Grove Trail

MapleForestrunner39 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Clayton Upton avatar

Rabbit Peak via Villager Peak Trail

SunriseChaser47 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in San Diego County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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