Home › California › San Diego › Cabrillo Canyon
Cabrillo Canyon
4.4 ★★★★☆ 51 Google reviews · Running trail in San Diego, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Cabrillo Canyon's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Cabrillo Canyon
“Beautiful place except for the noise from the highway, otherwise very picturesque and we'll worth the visit, so much so I will continue to visit.”
This is one of my go to trail runs. I start near one of the canyon entrances in the neighborhood of Hillcrest. I either take the stairway up to the grassy parks on the edge of Balboa Park or run the trial to the Juniper Stairs. It's always beautiful.
I had an incredible visit to Carrillo Canyon. The rugged beauty of the landscape, with its towering cliffs and meandering river, left me in awe. We hiked along the scenic trails, explored the rich flora and fauna, and even had a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
There are multiple ways into and out of this hidden urban hideaway. With just a few steps you can get away from city life and enjoy a peaceful 1 mile walk through tall trees and thick undergrowth. We came across a coyote so make sure your dog is on a leash.
I love this trail. There is an entrance that has a beautiful little walk under the trees. While exploring, look for a bridge and a fairy garden. Lots of good trees to sit in.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful place except for the noise from the highway, otherwise very picturesque and we'll worth the visit, so much so I will continue to visit.”
Plan your run at Cabrillo Canyon
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitebalboapark.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near San Diego
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Juniper Canyon
4.3 ★★★★☆ 110 reviews
Nature area featuring hiking paths and wildlife amid canyon scenery.
Tecolote Canyon Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 34 reviews
Coronado Ferry Landing Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 619 reviews
Waterfront ferry stop featuring beach access, waterfront dining and a bike-rental shop.