rare plants such as the endangered salt marsh bird’s beak. The estuary is also known as a great bird-watching spot, with chances to see threatened and endangered species including the California least tern and snowy plover. One suggested route is to start at Iris Avenue and Tower Road in Imperial Beach and follow the River Mouth Trail to the beach overlook, then extend your route on the South McCoy Trail. The flat paths are great for beginners who are new to exercising, and this route is about 2.5 miles out and back. Go any time of year, especially summer to take advantage of the breeze on warmer days. trnerr.org
Tijuana Estuary
so you ’ ve hiked :
Drive farther south on the 5 to get the same coastal trails and rugged ocean scenery, but with far fewer people. This wildlife refuge near the Mexican border has several trail options that take you all the way to the beach, so you can take advantage of cool ocean breezes throughout your entire hike. This area is a coastal wetland, home to a wide variety of plant and animal life you won’t see elsewhere. Along the way, walk past salt marshes, coastal sage scrub, and dunes, and see
Torrey Pines You’d be hard pressed to find a coastal hike more loved than Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which starts on North Torrey Pines Road in La Jolla and follows a few miles of winding trails. It has beautiful ocean views and majestic cli s, plus the chance to hike down to the beach and walk through the sand if the tide is right. Since it’s so picturesque, it’s naturally crowded (and parking is limited). torreypine.org
69 SAN DI EGO MAGAZ INE
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