About Mission Trails Regional Park
During a February visit to San Diego, we embraced the perfect 70-degree weather with a hike over the North and South Fortuna Mountains. Just a quick 20-minute drive from our hotel in the Gaslamp District, Mission Trails Regional Park offered rugged terrain and a surprising burst of wildflowers. It is hard to believe we were still within city limits!
Mission Trails Park encompasses 7,300 acres of land and 60 miles of trails, making it the 5th largest urban park in the United States. On some sections of the trail loop, we heard traffic on the bordering highway. For, the most part, the hike was quiet and peaceful. Be prepared for uneven terrain with loose dirt and stones. The trail offers scenic views and, in wetter months, an abundance of wildflowers.
Trailhead Parking
Begin at the West Fortuna Staging Area off Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. Limited curbside parking is available. From the parking area, walk a short distance to the trailhead. Note: There are no restrooms at this location. Facilities are available at the Mission Trails Visitor Center (off Mission Gorge Road) and at Kumeyaay Lake Campground in the northeast section of the park.
The Rim and Fortuna Trail Loop
Start the hike by crossing a footbridge and heading north on the Mountain Saddle Trail, a packed stone path. Continue for 1 mile, then veer slightly left onto the dirt Rim Trail. Follow it for 0.8 miles; expect minor elevation changes and mostly easy terrain.
Turn right onto the Shepherd Ridge Trail, and walk .7 miles on the gentle incline, 200′. The path is scattered with loose dirt and stones, but vibrant wildflowers brighten the route.
At the 2.5 mile mark, turn right and join the North Fortuna Trail, the steepest incline of the loop. The trail is rocky and very dry. After a short 0.3-mile climb, reach an overlook with views to the southwest and northeast.
At mile 3.1, arrive at the summit of North Fortuna Mountain (1,290 ft), the highest point on the hike. Enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the San Diego area.
Continue to South Fortuna Mountain, reaching the summit at mile 4.3 (elevation 1,085 ft). The 0.8-mile incline is gentle, with just under 200 feet of elevation gain.
From mile 4.7, the trail descends steeply. The dry, loose dirt makes footing slippery, even with steps and embedded boulders.
At the base of the descent (mile 5.5), make two quick left turns to join South Trail. This section is rocky but mostly level.
At mile 5.9, turn onto the stone San Diego Aqueduct Service Road for 0.3 miles. Make a quick right, then a left to reconnect with the Mountain Saddle Trail, completing the loop.
Map and Details
| Hike difficulty classification (link) | |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate to difficult |
| Geographic location | San Diego, California |
| Trailhead parking options | West Fortuna Staging Area, Claremont Mesa Boulevard |
| Trail amenities | Park map at the trailhead; no bathroom facilities in this region of the park |
| Elevation - trailhead | 588' |
| Elevation - highest peak | 1,290' |
| Elevation gain | 1,391' |
| Total mileage | 6.7 miles |
| Water sources | None |
| Highlights | View of San Diego and surrounding valley |
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