Split between the main reserve and the extended reserve, Torrey Pines has – in total – around 4.6 miles of beautiful trails and gorgeous overlook spots to explore. In addition, the park is home to the historic Torrey Pines Lodge, a gift of philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripts who wanted “the scenic beauty and educational and recreational value” of Torrey Pines to be shared with everyone.
Whether you want to string together a few short trails for a longer day of hiking, spend all your time in the water, or something in between, Torrey Pines will fit your individual needs.
When I went here last I parked at the entrance to the main reserve. This parking lot is popular for those who are specifically coming here for the beach. All parking at the state park is $15 – unless you have a California Annual Park Pass.
Next, I walked along the road until High Point directly across from the 1/2 mile Parry Grove Loop Trail, hopped on the 2/3 mile Razor Point Trail to Razor Point, cut over to Yucca Point, and jumped onto the Beach Trail to reach – you guessed it – the beach!
Once at the beach I explored the area, walking down into the direction of blacks beach (only 3/4 miles south), and finally headed north along the beach to get back to the parking lot and call it a day.
I liked parking at the bottom because it added some extra distance to our hike, but there are two different places you can park to get yourself closer to those trails.
If you keep driving past the first parking lot, the first will be a little outlet on your right-hand side, placing you right next to the notable 2/3 mile Guy Fleming loop trail. The second will be two parking lots next to the Torrey Pines Lodge and the before mentioned Razor Point and Beach Trails. You won’t miss them.
The park has much more to offer than just what I did. Featured on the Extended Reserve are the popular Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Trail (1/2 mile) and the Red Ridge Trail (1/3 mile) which offer great views across to the Main Reserve. In addition to the Margaret Fleming Nature Trail (3/4 mile) and the Mar Scenic Trail (1/2 mile).
Wherever you are, keep an eye on the sky while you’re on the trail and hopefully you’ll be able to find some people paragliding from the nearby Torrey Pines Glider Port.
If you have $1,200 burning a hole in your pocket you might even consider getting your P1 Beginner Certification at the prestigious Paragliding Flight School and you can be one of those cool cats gliding around by the ocean.
For more information on the Torrey Pines State Nature Park check out their website, and here are links to the trails maps for the Main and Extended Reserves.
Cam & The Outdoors 