Slot Canyon San Diego Beach
Annie’s Slot Canyon Trail in Solana Beach, California Annie’s Canyon Trail is a short hiking trail in San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve between Solana Beach and Encinitas. This trail leads to a unique slot canyon that seems out of place in San Diego County not far from the Pacific Ocean. Solana Hills Trail Solana Beach, CA 92075. Phone: (760) 436-3995, -117.263272. Hike: 1.6 miles Level: Moderate Dog-Friendly: Yes (but there is one area of climbing where small dogs must be carried up and large dogs cannot make it up). Residents say homeless are trashing Pacific Beach canyon. The City of San Diego encourages individuals to be specific when reporting issues or concerns on the “Get It Done” app or website. Start at 840 N Rios Avenue, Solana beach and walk east towards the FWY 5 where you will see Annie’s Canyon on your right. There is only one way to go up the canyons and it gets pretty tight in places, but you'll discover some cool little hideaway spots along the way.
Added by Jussi Oksanen
Awesome short and easy hike. A fun place to explore with the whole family -- even the littlest kids -- and a great spot to watch the sun set!
If you're looking for a super short hike, this 10 minute flat walk couldn't be more ideal. Start at 840 N Rios Avenue, Solana beach and walk east towards the FWY 5 where you will see Annie’s Canyon on your right. There is only one way to go up the canyons and it gets pretty tight in places, but you'll discover some cool little hideaway spots along the way.
You'll notice a few trails going up the walls, but be aware that while they are fairly mellow heading up, coming down is a different story. And remember: it’s sand! It can get really slippery at times which is not ideal when you find yourself 30 foot high...
At the top of the canyons you will find some stairs that lead to the top. From there you get an amazing view of the canyons and the San Elijo Lagoon. It's the perfect place to take some snacks while watching the sun set over the ocean. Just remember to take your trash with you!
Slot Canyon San Diego Beach Hotels
Slot Canyon San Diego Beach House
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Reviews
R G
over 1 year ago
Fun for all ages!
You start on the Rios Trail and end up over at Annie’s Canyon Trail. It splits into “View Point- moderate” (stairs) and the “One Way Loop- strenuous” (canyon). The canyon trail is definitely tight and a bit hard at points, but super fun and worth it. There were kids and toddlers going through the canyons with ease as well! There is a ladder at the end that you must climb to the top, but it is not difficult for adults or even children. The hike is generally flat/slightly downhill for .6 miles, until you get to the fork in the trail for the canyons and stairs. The stairs take you up to the top of the view point, which is also where the canyon loop leads as well. There were plenty of trees and brush which provided a great amount of shade along the Rios Trail. It was beautiful hiking along the lagoon and seeing it from the top of the view point! We all had fun and definitely recommend it.
5.0
Robyn Ayers
about 2 years ago
Short hike and fun for kids
We did this hike on a Saturday. So parking was a little challenging as it’s street parking in a residential area. I did this with a three year old on foot and a toddler in carrier on my back. There were so precarious moments as far as tightness goes. But it was a great time!
4.0
Michael Munger
over 3 years ago
My adventure
Great getaway for a needed adventure very easy yet 'strenuous'!
5.0
Mark Brechbiel
over 3 years ago
Waves, Wildlife And Canyons; Oh My!
When I first read about the mushroom caves I had no idea what to expect. I knew I was going to be taking my 4 year old so I figured it was gonna be pretty mellow. This place is rad! We actually ended going two days in a row and my little girl did the canyon loop 5 TIMES! It's best to go on a weekday as Sunday was really crowded. Highly recommended and will definitely be going back!
5.0
Elise Heimowitz
over 3 years ago
Short, Easy, Pretty
Short easy hike great for families, small children, and dogs. Highly recommend exploring the slot canyon area.
4.0
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
See a true natural wonder – right in your county’s backyard –
The sandstone canyon walls display breathtaking shapes that are a don’t-miss gift from mother nature. What happens when thousands of years of coastal rains fall? In this particular case, those rains yielded a unique slot canyon – and what we think is one of the best hikes in San Diego – for us to appreciate and enjoy.
Slot Canyon San Diego Hike
In this slot canyon, you get up-close and personal with San Diego’s unique geology. On either side of you, you can observe these naturally eroding canyon walls. Don’t forget your camera – and a spirit of adventure! (Tag your Instagram photos with #anniescanyontrail)