Winter is here! As the shorter days and cooler weather invite us to cuddle on the couch with warm beverages and loved ones, keeping up your training routines can be challenging. However, fresh running trails with beautiful views can inspire you to get out the door and explore!
Here are five scenic running trails to help you stay motivated and keep moving!
Whether you enjoy ocean views, urban skylines, or natural vistas, San Diego has a running trail for you!
The Embarcadero
Do you love downtown skylines and waterfront views? Then head down the Embarcadero, where the city meets the sea, with this 5-mile run! To complete this out-and-back course, start on the bayside of the San Diego Convention Center and head north along the Embarcadero past beautiful locales like Seaport Village, the USS Midway, and Waterfront Park. Are you looking to go farther? Add distance by continuing to Harbor Island! When you return, add an extra challenge by climbing 100 steps at the Convention Center!
Sunset Cliffs
Enjoy a beautiful sunset while completing your workout on the Sunset Cliffs Park Trail! This 1.7-mile out-and-back course keeps you high on the cliffs, where you can watch a gorgeous sunset, complete with the crashing waves of the Pacific. If you’re looking for more distance, start in nearby Ocean Beach! For a special treat, run this trail on a Wednesday night to enjoy the local fare at the famous Ocean Beach Farmer’s Market after your run!
Cabrillo National Monument
If you’re a history buff who enjoys scenic vistas, then Cabrillo National Monument is your location! Here at the tip of Point Loma, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of San Diego Harbor and Coronado Island while surrounded by coastal ecology and historical sites. The Bayside Trail offers a 2.5-mile out-and-back run starting from the Old Lighthouse. While there, you can also explore the tidepools and old military installations. Remember to keep an eye on the Pacific for whale sightings too!
Mission Trails
Are you looking to get off the pavement and take in a breathtaking 360-degree view? Head inland to Mission Trails, home to San Diego’s highest point – Cowles Mountain. The Cowles Mountain Trail is a popular 3-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the top of the 1,593-foot summit. Alternatively, you can scale the mountain on the Cowles Mountain Backside Loop to enjoy the same incredible views but with far less traffic on the trail.
The Coaster
For a truly unique running adventure, take the Coaster challenge! Board the train at the Solana Beach Station. Then take the Coaster north and run back along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. This unusual workout allows you to pick your distance based on the rail stops and enjoy beautiful ocean views on your way back to Solana Beach! For the longest route, take the Coaster to Oceanside and run 16 miles back to your car.
San Diego is home to endless miles of beautiful running locales, but here are just five to keep you inspired and moving this season! Enjoy the miles!