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Mt. Helix Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,129 Google reviews · Running trail in La Mesa, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Mt. Helix 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.
High point offering views of San Diego, with a large amphitheater hosting plays, lectures & events.
What runners say about Mt. Helix Park
“Great view of the surrounding areas, great little spot-park on the top of the hill, beautiful cross on the top and a scenic road leading to it.”
“It's a peaceful place to relax, take in the scenery, and watch the sunset.”
An amazing place. Great view of the surrounding areas, great little spot-park on the top of the hill, beautiful cross on the top and a scenic road leading to it. Only reason I give 4 stars is that every surrounding area of the park is private property where you can not even park on the side of the road.
🎑This is ideal for a short hike,picnic,date or ride. Great for children and family/friends time to have a little adventure. It's absolutely breathtaking views, relaxing, meditating. A nice place to sit back and relax with a wonderful historical component to the park. Enjoy😍
I've lived in San Diego for 25 years and this was my first visit to Mt Helix. I've been missing out! The panoramic views from Mt Helix Park are spectacular. You can drive all the way up to the park, but there is also a bicycle lane leading up the hill that many also hike up, if you're looking for exercise.
Beautiful place to get away from it all and spend time with nature! Walking paths are clean and easy to push a stroller etc. Plenty of places to stop and sit, when needed. Clear views all the way to downtown SD, Coronado and surrounding areas of East County. Definitely a must see! 🙌🏾
Trail conditions & character
“The panoramic 360-degree views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking, encompassing the sprawling cityscape of San Diego, the Pacific Ocean, and the distant mountains.”
“I recommend visiting in the afternoon, as there are fewer people; the only downside is that parking is limited—you have to drive around and wait for a spot to open up.”
“It's a peaceful place to relax, take in the scenery, and watch the sunset.”
“You can drive all the way up to the park, but there is also a bicycle lane leading up the hill that many also hike up, if you're looking for exercise.”
Plan your run at Mt. Helix Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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
- Websitemthelixpark.org
- Phone+1 619-741-4363
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 5:30 am–7 pm |
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Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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