Adventure Tips

San Diego's 10 Best Hikes: Your Adventure Awaits!

Q: What are the different kinds of sleeping pads?

Two main types: self-inflating pads (foam core draws itself full of air when valve is opened) and air pads (need to be inflated). Self-inflating Sleeping Pads: comfortable, relatively inexpensive but heavier and bulkier than air pads. Air Sleeping Pads: lighter, smaller but higher cost.

Q: What is a "pump sack"?

A pump sack is an inflator bag which can be connected to an air sleeping pad for quick and easy set up. Sea to Summit air pads have a pump sack which is integrated into the stuff sack. The pump sack helps with easy inflation and reduces moisture from condensation in the sleeping pad.

Q: How thick should a sleeping pad be?

In a self-inflating sleeping pad, the thicker the foam core, the more comfortable it is. 2" is comfortable, 3" is luxurious. In an air pad, stability (not thickness) is key. The more points of suspension, the more stable the pad.

Q: How do I care for my sleeping pad?

Store a sleeping pad with the valve open to dry out any moisture from condensed breath. Store the pad unrolled (perhaps folded once or twice) so the foam of a self-inflating pad or the insulation of an air pad is not compressed.

Q: How do I keep a sleeping pad from sliding?

Certain tent floors are slippery - if your mat slides, add some squares of (3M) non-slip tape to the hip/shoulder areas.

Q: What's the difference between a synthetic and down sleeping bag?

Synthetic Sleeping Bags: still insulates when wet. Up-front cost is lower, but heavier and bulkier and have a shorter lifespan. Down Sleeping Bags: not ideal in very wet environments. Higher up-front cost, but lighter, packs smaller and lasts much longer.

Q: Can you sleep on your side in mummy sleeping bag?

The cut of mummy sleeping bags varies between brands - some are really tight. Sea to Summit Spark & Flame fit snugly but still allow side sleeping. Ascent, Altitude, Trek, Journey, Traverse and Venture sleeping bags have a broader mummy cut that is perfect for side sleepers.

Q: Is this sleeping bag machine washable?

Do not wash a sleeping bag in a top-loader washing machine - a front-loader with a wool or silk program is OK. Use down soap (supermarket detergent residue sticks insulation fibers together). Dry the bag in a dryer (cool or warm) with a couple of clean tennis balls.

Q: How do I care for/ store my sleeping bag?

Make sure your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing (in a cool, dry place) in a bag or pouch that will allow the bag to loft up. Pro tip - use a liner to reduce frequency of washing.

Q: How to pack a sleeping bag in a backpack?

Pack bulkier sleeping bags in a compression sack (compression dry bag for wet environments). Pack compact sleeping bags in an eVac Dry Bag. Pro-tip: always have your sleeping bag inside your pack at the bottom: mounted externally, they can snag on branches.

San Diego's 10 Best Hikes: Your Adventure Awaits!

When you visit "America's Finest City," you'll discover it's not all about craft beer and catching the perfect wave. In fact, beneath the city's surface, there are hidden hiking gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're climbing around cultural landmarks or chasing waterfalls that will leave you breathless, these are the top 10 San Diego hikes you'll want to experience – so go ahead, kick off those flip flops and hit the trails!

a path leading to the ocean on a sunny day

Cowles Mountain: A Quick City Escape

Running up Cowles Mountain is a San Diego classic. It's the highest peak in town at 1,595 feet, and even though it's just 1.5 miles to the top, don't underestimate the workout it'll give you. You'll be racing to the summit in no time. Plus, with its location and panoramic city views, expect to share the trail with college kids, families, and plenty of four-legged friends.

Palomar Mountain: A Sierra Nevada Experience

Palomar Mountain feels like you've teleported to the Sierra Nevadas. At 6,140 feet, it's one of the highest peaks in the county. The 13-mile round trip is a half-day adventure. If you're up for the challenge, turn it into an evening outing and visit the Palomar Observatory for some serious stargazing.

San Diego Beach Hike

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: Romantic Ocean Views

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, located in Ocean Beach, offers a relaxing and enchanting hike. With 1.5 miles of majestic sea cliffs, tide pools, and ocean breezes, it's perfect for a romantic date. If you visit in the evening, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins and seals splashing along the rocks.

Balboa Park Trails: Hidden Urban Gems

Balboa Park isn't just about museums and art. It's also surrounded by miles of hiking trails. With 5 trail options ranging from 1.5 to 6.6 miles, there's something for hikers of all levels. You can wind down canyon paths and traverse lush oak and pine-covered hills right in the heart of the city.

Borrego Palm Canyon: Desert Charm

Anza-Borrego's Borrego Palm Canyon is a quintessential desert adventure. This 3.2-mile trail takes you through cactus gardens, wildflowers, and a bighorn sheep sighting or two. The reward at the end is the third largest palm oasis in California, with colors that only a desert sunset can provide.

Mount Woodson: The Potato Chip Rock Challenge

Locals know Mount Woodson for its iconic "Potato Chip Rock." This 6.4-mile hike is lined with massive boulders, making it quite the challenge. At the summit, you'll be treated to views of Lake Poway and Palomar Mountain. Don't forget extra water, snacks, and your camera for this one.

Iron Mountain: Diverse Californian Beauty

Iron Mountain offers well-marked trails and diverse Californian beauty. The 6-mile hike may lack shade, but it's surrounded by hills covered in purple lilacs and massive boulders. It's a hit with horseback riders and families alike, but starting early is wise to beat the summer heat.

Cedar Creek Falls: A Waterfall Oasis

About an hour northwest of San Diego, you'll find one of the region's best waterfall hikes - Cedar Creek Falls. The 4.2-mile round trip takes you through exposed stretches of land and leads to a punchbowl pool below a 75-foot waterfall. Bring a friend, plenty of water, and prepare to witness one of San Diego's most spectacular waterfalls.

brown rocky shore near body of water during daytime

Torrey Pines: Unique Southern California Beauty

Torrey Pines State Reserve showcases the unique beauty of Southern California with 8 miles of hiking. Multiple trails wind through geological wonders, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. For sunset lovers, there's even a beach trail that leads you right onto the sand. Make sure to check out Razor Point (1.3 miles) and Guy Fleming (0.7 miles).

El Cajon Mountain: The Ultimate Challenge

El Cajon Mountain, also known as "El Cap," is the toughest hike on our list. Used by IRONMAN triathletes for training, this 11-mile trail climbs to a peak of 3,675 feet. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, especially when it's scorching hot. But the stunning views and sense of accomplishment are worth every step.