Editor’s note: We’re making every effort to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, sometimes closures occur at the last minute due to circumstances beyond our control, such as the spread of Covid-19. We highly recommend that you call ahead before you pack your kids (and all those snacks, and diapers…) and haul them across town. Stay safe!
The wild is calling your family for an adventure hike… but you’d like a little guidance while heading into the unknown. We’ve found 7 guided nature walks and hikes along San Diego’s most beautiful hiking trails and nature trails. Follow along as rangers and docents lead the way and discuss wildlife, plants and more exciting details like the starry sky and the sounds of coyotes. Put on your sturdy shoes and read on for where to join the fun and head into the great outdoors on both day hikes and night hikes!
Batiquitos Lagoon Group Walk
Join a docent-led guided nature walk courtesy of the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation. Walks take place throughout the year. The walks focus on a particular aspect of the lagoon wildlife and environment, and cover a wide range of topics. To join a scheduled walk, no reservations are required. If you have a larger group let them know so they can accommodate you.
Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation Nature Center
7380 Gabbiano Ln
Carlsbad, CA 92011
760-931-0800
Online: batiquitosfoundation.org
Canyoneer Hikes with the Nat
With over 75 different hikes scheduled, there are plenty of terrains to choose from. The best part is the hikes are led by a Naturalist from the San Diego Natural History Museum. From a 3 mile, 500 elevation hike down Santa Margarita River (spotting raptors in the trees) to a 3 mile 200 elevation easier hike at Cool Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, most of these hikes are probably better for older kids. Check them all out, here!
Note: Due to COVID-19 all Canyoneer hikes/walks are cancelled through Apr. 30, 2020.
Online: sdnhm.org/canyoneer-hikes
Hike With a County Parks Ranger
What’s better than hiking with a ranger? Head out to Otay Lakes County Park and meet up with a ranger who will lead a 1.5 to 2 mile easy-to-moderate hike of Lower Otay Reservoir and Otay Valley. Learn about the park’s history, animals and plants. Bring water, comfortable hiking shoes and a hat. Meet at the park office.
Dates: Sundays; April 5 & May 3
Time: 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.
Cost: Free
Otay Lakes County Park
2270 Wueste Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91915
619-482-7361
Online: allparksguide
Mission Trails Family Discovery Walks
Hike it out with a Park Trail Leader on a family nature walk to discover the many changes that occur in the park throughout the year. These walks provide an opportunity for families to enjoy some quality time together in nature! Bring hats, sunscreen, sturdy shoes and a smile.
Dates: 4th Sunday of every month, from 3-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Mission Trails Regional Park
Visitor and Interpretive Center
One Father Junipero Serra Trail
San Diego, CA 92119
Online: mtrp.org
Solar Walk & Stargazing
If you feel adventurous and would like to take a docent-led night hike, then head over to the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve. Join them on a journey into outer space, and viewing of our nighttime skies. They’ll take you on a trip through the solar system on the 1.5 mile hike into the Reserve before meeting up with Curiosity Peak astronomers from Julian with their powerful telescopes trained on a distant constellation or planet. Bundle up and go!
Date: Ongoing, next event, Sat., April 18
Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
16275 Espola Road
Poway, CA 92064
858-668-4781
Online: poway.org
Evening Hike at Goodan Ranch
All ages welcome to hit the trail at sundown for a ranger-led evening hike! Meet with park staff at the Goodan Ranch staging area for an informative 3-mile trek through open meadows and old oak groves, including a stop at the Goodan Ranch visitors center. Experience the sights and sounds of the preserve at night, while learning about its diverse habitat. Remember to come prepared with warm clothing, a flashlight or headlamp, and enough water for a 3-mile journey. Details, here.
Date: April 4, 6:30 p.m.; May 23, 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Goodan Ranch
16281 Sycamore Canyon Rd.
Poway, CA 92064
858-513-4737
They Only Come Out at Night Hike!
Follow a ranger for a cool night hike along the trails of Flinn Springs. While walking, be sure to look for coyotes, owls, bats, and bobcats. Don't worry, it's not too scary... but don't forget to bring a flashlight! Sorry, no dogs allowed. Details, here.
Date: April 19, 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free; parking $3
Flinn Springs County Park
14787 Olde Hwy. 80
El Cajon, CA 92021
619-561-0180
––Nikki Walsh
featured image: Andie Huber
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