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Juniper Canyon
4.3 ★★★★☆ 110 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 Juniper 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.
Nature area featuring hiking paths and wildlife amid canyon scenery.
What runners say about Juniper Canyon
“Good walk, the spring with the wild flowers is beautiful, and the wildlife.”
So beautiful. I love places to hike in San Diego and I can say of all the spots I've visited so far, this part of Mission Trails is my favorite. So many trees, and a couple waterfalls complete with a gorgeous brook. Excellent spot to take pictures as well, if you're into that.
This mostly hidden urban trail is a wonderful little pocket of nature in the city. The trailhead from the north is right next to a a residential lot with a small sign. It's small but has several side trails leading out, meaning there's more to explore than the primary trail's length implies.
Super happy we have such a close place near home to hike. Love the peacefulness
This mostly hidden urban trail is a wonderful little pocket of nature in the city. The trailhead from the north is right next to a a residential lot with a small sign. It's small but has several side trails leading out, meaning there's more to explore than the primary trail's length implies.
Trail conditions & character
“Wonderful hike in a dog friendly neighborhood with views makes this a special place and lovely walk.”
“Wonderful hike in a dog friendly neighborhood with views makes this a special place and lovely walk.”
“The trailhead from the north is right next to a a residential lot with a small sign.”
“The incline is easy but the uneven stones add a challenge.”
Plan your run at Juniper 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
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitesandiego.gov
- Phone(619) 525-8213
- 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.
Southcrest Trails Park
4.1 ★★★★☆ 7 reviews
Radio Canyon Open Space
4.3 ★★★★☆ 51 reviews
Chollas Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 130 reviews
Family-friendly park with a lake, playground, picnic tables, and barbecue grills.