Annie's Canyon Hike, San Diego

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Annie’s Canyon is a family friendly hike near Solana Beach that brings the fun!

This hike is nothing short of a gem. Located near Solana Beach, San Diego County this trail gives you panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, San Elijo Lagoon, narrow slot canyons, and a ladder climb through the sandstone all in less than 2 miles, 100 feet of elevation, and it’s easy enough for the whole family to do together; but fun enough that everyone (teenagers included) will enjoy it!

This trail in essence allows one to feel like a true adventurer without really having to have any training or skill whatsoever. My kids LOVED it, we all wished it was longer, and we will definitely be going back!

In fact, this seemed to be a popular family outing. We did this trail on a 3 day holiday weekend and were met by people walking dogs, and many families with young children who had the same idea as us.

However, for a person with claustrophobia or a true fear of heights this might not be the hike for you; the walls are narrow and you are required to climb one ladder to complete the loop. But, my 3 year old did this unassisted with no problem whatsoever, so it’s not a technical hike and doesn’t require any additional equipment.

Trail-head: Street parking on N. Rios Ave. There are a few cul-de-sacs to park on and the trail starts at the end of the street where it dead ends. On a weekend you may have a longer walk because the trail is heavily used and parking is scarce. I recommend a weekday if possible to avoid crowds.

You can google map “Annie’s Canyon Trail” and it will show you where to park. The street dead ends at the trail-head.

1.5 miles total (.25 in the actual canyon) out and back

Elevation change: 100 Feet

Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Time: 45 min- 1.5 hours (depends on how quickly you walk). We took the easy way to the canyon and walked near the lagoon (ecological preserve) on the way back to change it up a bit. We also stayed to picnic and play at the base of the canyon, which added to our time.

Dog friendly. Not stroller friendly. I recommend a hiking backpack for younger children, good shoes, water and sunscreen.

You will see this sign with information at the trail-head

The trail itself is easy to follow and well marked. It begins flat and incredibly easy on a dirt path near sage shrubs above the ecological preserve.

Follow the green signs to Annie’s Canyon Trail

The hike is mostly flat and easy. You can hike the top trail by brush overlooking the lagoon, or right next to the lagoon itself; you will probably see a lot of neat birds down there. We did!

From here you will come to a marked area where the canyon begins. The trail then splits into two routes: “View Point” listed as moderate. This route takes you up stairs to a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The other route “One-Way Loop” which is more difficult and will take you into the slot canyon, up the ladder and ends you at the view point. Though it is more difficult we had 12 kids ages 3-11 do it with absolutely no problem whatsoever. You will climb and boulder the sandstone so be prepared to get a bit dirty. Again, the trail is marked and easy to follow. The biggest difficulty would be for larger people in the narrow slots or those with a fear of heights.

The stairs that lead directly to the overlook, or from the canyon; depending on the route you take.

The canyon “One Way Loop” takes you through slots like this, up a ladder, and to the overlook. You will take the stairs down to meet back up with the trail to take you to the start of the hike.

I highly recommend taking the One Way Loop and climb the ladder. Super fun, and sturdy. Totally the highlight of the hike!

The overlook provides views of the ocean and lagoon!

The majority of this hike is flat with slight uphill portions and stairs, but nothing incredibly strenuous and easy enough for children, families, and even dogs.

Bring a picnic and relax down below the canyon. It was the perfect place to rest and eat. The kids were able to be kids and build a fort out of branches, climb trees and explore!

The resting area at the base of the canyon.

So if you are looking for a great hike, a lot of adventure, beautiful views and an escape from the everyday norm; definitely check out Annie’s Canyon in Solana Beach, San Diego! A big reward with little effort… my favorite kind of hike!