Field guide
The Torrey Pines trail system for runners and hikers
Official information for hiking or running the Torrey Pines trail. Find details on park hours, parking fees, trail rules, and what to expect.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is located between La Jolla and Del Mar. It protects the nation's rarest pine tree, the Torrey pine, and includes one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California.
This guide provides practical information for runners and hikers using the park's trails. It covers access, parking, operating hours, and rules, based on official sources.
Official facts at a glance
- Type of place
- Majestic reserve, home of the nation's rarest pine tree (Torrey pine), one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California.
- Geographic location
- Between La Jolla and Del Mar, California, north of San Diego.
- Park gates hours
- Open at 07:15 a.m. and close at Sunset.
- Group hiking permit
- Required for any organized group; must also schedule a docent guided hike if hiking.
- North Beach Vehicle Day Use Minimum
- $10.00
- North Beach Vehicle Day Use Maximum
- $25.00
- South Beach Vehicle Day Use Minimum
- $12.00
- South Beach Vehicle Day Use Maximum
- $25.00
- Extension trails parking
- Free public parking allowed near trail heads.
- Dogs allowed
- No
- Picnicking and camping
- Prohibited
- Park features
- Hiking trails, a visitor center, and various interpretive programs.
Source: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (parks.ca.gov). Official page, checked Oct 21, 2026.
Access and parking information
The reserve is located north of San Diego. Day use vehicle fees apply for the North Beach and South Beach lots. The fee for North Beach ranges from a minimum of $10.00 to a maximum of $25.00.
The South Beach lot fees range from a minimum of $12.00 to a maximum of $25.00. Free public parking may be available near the trail heads for the extension trails.
Hours of operation
The park gates open daily at 07:15 a.m. The gates close at sunset. Visitors should plan their activities to be out of the park before the closing time.
Rules on the trail
Dogs are not permitted within the reserve. Picnicking and camping are also prohibited to protect the natural environment.
Any organized group must obtain a permit for hiking. These groups must also schedule a docent guided hike as part of their visit.
Before you go
- The park opens at 07:15 a.m. and closes at sunset.
- Dogs are not allowed in the reserve.
- Parking fees for the main lots range from $10.00 to $25.00.
- Picnicking and camping are not permitted.
- Organized groups need to secure a permit before visiting.
- The reserve has hiking trails, a visitor center, and interpretive programs.
Nearby options: running and active spots in San Diego. All cities: City running and hiking guides.