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Mission Trails Regional Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 7,818 Google reviews · Running trail in San Diego, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Mission Trails Regional Park'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.
8,000-acre recreational park featuring 60 miles of trails, along with a lake for boating & camping.
What runners say about Mission Trails Regional Park
“Two clean bathroom facilities with 4 stalls and 2 hot showers, no coins needed.”
“Yet, you’re literally walking through a beautiful brush desert and get to see the historical Old Mission Dam.”
“The trails are well-marked, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes that give you a great workout.”
“On the day we visited it was extremely quiet and we only saw a handful of others out and about.”
“The park has many trails for all levels of hiking and we were able to have a wonderful hiking experience, also kid friendly.”
I hiked from the park entrance to the peaks of two mountains. It took about three hours. The nature was diverse and beautiful. The endless vistas were truly soul-soothing. The trail varied: at times rocky, sometimes crossed by streams, and occasionally a steep mountain path. So, make sure to wear hiking boots.
My sunset hike at Cowles Mountain in Mission Trails Regional Park was an unforgettable experience, largely due to the dedication and care demonstrated by the park rangers. Their passion for nature, commitment to conservation, and unwavering support for visitors elevated the journey beyond just a hike.
Urban camping at its best. Small campgrounds with fewer than 50 sites, each one padded with bark mulch. No hookups, but there is a section permitting generators and a tent-only section. Two clean bathroom facilities with 4 stalls and 2 hot showers, no coins needed.
My toddler boys have been on so many different hikes but this remains at the top of their list! We love the visitor center which has an interactive museum attached to it where you can learn about the Kumeyaay people and the rich natural history of the area.
Trail conditions & character
“Bring your camera and binoculars to view the hawks, hummingbirds and deer around the lake trail originating from the campground and various trails.”
“The trails are also dog friendly, with a water station and a dog parking post in front of the visitors center.”
“The park features rugged hills, river valleys, and historical sites, offering a range of recreational and educational opportunities.”
“On the day we visited it was extremely quiet and we only saw a handful of others out and about.”
“We love all of the different trails which are kid friendly with mostly flat terrain and some climbing opportunities and even a creek to cool off in.”
“The trails are also dog friendly, with a water station and a dog parking post in front of the visitors center.”
“The trail varied: at times rocky, sometimes crossed by streams, and occasionally a steep mountain path.”
“Highly recommend the Visitor’s Loop Trail for kids and people who can’t do long hikes.”
“Two clean bathroom facilities with 4 stalls and 2 hot showers, no coins needed.”
“The trails are also dog friendly, with a water station and a dog parking post in front of the visitors center.”
Plan your run at Mission Trails Regional Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitemtrp.org
- Phone(619) 668-3281
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.
Mission Trails Rim Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 96 reviews
This trail for hiking, running & mountain biking offers scenic views over San Diego.
Mission Trails Clairemont Mesa Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 279 reviews
Recreational area offering hiking and mountain biking trails, plus a horse riding path.
Kwaay Paay Peak West Trailhead
4.9 ★★★★★ 55 reviews
Hiking area featuring kid-friendly trails.
Cowles Mountain Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,024 reviews
Picturesque uphill hiking trail known for its panoramic views at the summit.
Cowles Mountain
4.8 ★★★★★ 725 reviews
Popular hiking area with trails leading to a summit with panoramic views.