It’s time to dust off those hiking boots! After a 4-month temporary closure, the gates at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve have been open again since March. Just in time, too – this is one of the best seasons for early morning adventures, with cooler temperatures and stunning coastal scenery waiting to be explored.
What’s new (and what’s coming) at Torrey Pines
The reserve initially shut down in November to kick off Phase 1 of a major construction project. Crews have spent the last few months working on utility upgrades, repaving pathways, and adding new parking stalls.
While the main trails, upper parking lots, and park roads are fully accessible now, California State Parks has noted that Phase 2 of construction is scheduled to begin in August or September. That gives us a perfect window this summer to hit the trails before the next round of upgrades begins!
Trails to explore first
With roughly 2,000 acres of coastal paths and beautiful ocean views, Torrey Pines is easily one of the best ways to get outside. If it’s been a while since your last visit, here’s a quick refresher on the favorites:
- Guy Fleming Trail (0.7-mile loop): The most accessible option. This relatively flat loop features 2 sweeping ocean overlooks and gets you up close with the reserve’s namesake: the rarest pine in North America.
- Razor Point Trail (1.4 miles round-trip): You’ll make your way through coastal scenery and sandstone cliffs before reaching a stunning overlook of the ocean.
- The Beach Trail (0.75 miles one-way): This is a sweaty one. The steep descent drops you right onto the sand of the black rock beach below. It’s a great workout, but remember to save some energy for the climb back up.
Know before you go
Because the reserve is a protected habitat, the park enforces a few rules:
- Hours: Open daily from 7:15 AM to sunset.
- Parking: Fees range from $10 to $25 per vehicle, depending on the season and day of the week.
- No dogs allowed: Keep the pups at home. Dogs are strictly prohibited anywhere in the reserve or on the beach, in order to protect the coastal habitats.
Grab that hat and plenty of water: our favorite spot is ready to be visited again!
