Mission Trails Regional Park

A Vast Urban Wilderness

Mission Trails Regional Park encompasses over 8,000 acres of both natural and developed recreational areas. Established in 1974, it has become one of the largest urban parks in the United States and is often referred to as the third jewel in the City of San Diego's park system, alongside Balboa Park and Mission Bay Park.

Located just 8 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, the park offers a quick escape into nature from the urban environment. Its landscape is characterized by rugged hills, valleys, and open areas that represent the San Diego region as it existed before European colonization.

Trails and Recreation

The park boasts approximately 60 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The most popular hike leads to the summit of Cowles Mountain, which at 1,592 feet is the highest peak in the city of San Diego, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing and boating on Lake Murray, which is part of the park. For those interested in overnight stays, the park offers camping facilities at Kumeyaay Lake Campground.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Mission Trails was originally inhabited by the Kumeyaay people, and later became the site of the Old Mission Dam, built between 1809 and 1815 to provide water for the nearby Mission San Diego de Alcalá. The dam, now a historic landmark, can still be visited in the northeast portion of the park.

Visitor Resources

At the heart of the park lies the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor and Interpretive Center, a 14,000-square-foot facility that houses exhibits on the park's geology, history, plant and animal life, and cultural significance. The center also includes a theater, library, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Ecological Significance

Mission Trails Regional Park serves as an important ecological preserve, protecting a variety of plant and animal species native to the Southern California region. It provides opportunities for education, recreation, and the appreciation of nature, all within close proximity to a major urban center.