Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

One of the wildest stretches of real estate in all of SoCal, this 2,000-acre chunk of nature is rugged and dramatic, and those who venture into it are treated to spectacular views of the cliffs and the ocean. Eight miles of hiking trails wind throughout the reserve, and along the way, you might catch sight of some of the native inhabitants – bobcats, foxes, skunks, raccoons, coyotes and rabbits. Torrey Pines is named after the rarest pine tree in the country, which grows only in northern San Diego County and on Santa Rosa Island. Free guided tours are available weekends and holidays at 10 am and 2 pm, departing from the Visitor Center. The reserve is open daily from 8 am to sunset. No food or drink (except water) is permitted, and smoking and dogs are prohibited.

Scripps Bluffs Preserve

This small area near Dog Beach is less crowded than Torrey Pines but affords some great views as well. Head to the beach – just north of the San Dieguito River – and look for a wooden staircase that leads up the bluff. At the end, you’ll find a short trail that will take you to the top, which provides a panoramic view of Del Mar, the lagoons and the sparkling blue Pacific. Be sure to bring your camera, and your dog is welcome as well. Tip: Scripps Bluff is one of the best places to watch the sunset at the end of the day. Street parking is free along Camino Del Mar and at 29th Street.

San Dieguito River Trail

This trail is part of the Coast to Crest Trail, which will eventually extend 71 miles from the ocean at Del Mar to the San Dieguito River’s source on Volcan Mountain near Julian. Nearly 50 miles of the trail are already completed, and there are sections for every level of hiker. The route follows the lovely San Dieguito River, and it’s a great place to see – and encounter – the area’s natural beauty and local wildlife including birds, rabbits, squirrels, and other animals. Dogs are allowed on most of the trails. Park management asks that you refrain from using the trails less than 48 hours after it rains, as bicycle tires, horse hooves and even shoes and dog paws can damage the trail when it is wet and muddy. The trails are open year-round and free of charge.

Crest Canyon Park

Nestled in among residential developments, Crest Canyon is full of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, Torrey pines, wildflowers, birdsongs and light breezes. There are several trails, but the Crest Canyon Trail Loop will give you a full dose of the scenery and a lovely chaparral ecosystem. This is a 2.5-mile trail that affords scenic views of the canyon. It can be used to get some moderate exercise or simply for a relaxing family walk. You’ll see a few hikers, walkers and runners along the trail – and maybe even a coyote or rattlesnake – but it’s never too crowded. Dogs are welcome.

San Dieguito Lagoon

This isn’t so much of a hike, but if you love nature, you shouldn’t miss the San Dieguito Lagoon. The pretty little ocean inlet is just south of the San Dieguito River, and it’s a great place for birdwatching and snapping photos. The lagoon is a stopover for birds on the Pacific Flyway, and you can see such endangered species as the California least tern, light-footed clapper rail and California brown pelican. Take Jimmy Durante Boulevard to San Dieguito Road to access the dock. The viewing area is on the left.

Torrey Pines Extension

Similar to Torrey Pines State Reserve but without the crowds and parking fees, Torrey Pines Extension features much of the same spectacular scenery and wildlife. There is no beach access, but there are still plenty of impressive Torrey pines to see. The trails here are not quite as well maintained as those in the reserve, providing for a more rustic hiking experience.