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Mission Trails Regional Park is a GEM. It is TWENTY minutes from the city of San Diego and yet you can get lost (seriously though, I was close many times) and be surrounded by foothills, mountains, and rivers. I LOVE city hikes. It combines two of my favorite things -exploring mountains then the city! As many know, Cowles (did you know it is pronounced COALS???) is the most popular of the mission hills hike. If you want to stay more away from the crowds, feel even MORE in nature and get a stellar leg workout – South Fortuna Stairs are for you.
The facts:
Distance: 4.4 miles (Out and back)
Hiking time: 2.5 Hours
Elevation Gain: 1,400 ft
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
*Dogs allowed
My review: I would agree with the above facts! It wasn’t too bad to get to the stairs but once you get there you are in for a TREAT. It is rough. It took me a little less than 2 hours because I ran part of the trail and didn’t spend too much time at the top!
I parked at the parking lot at the crossing of Mission Gorge Road and Jackson Drive (gate closes at 5 so park some where else or make sure you are not parked)! You will head onto a fire road (gravel) and make your way to crossing over the dam (you will get wet unless it happens to be dry!
Yes! you cross over this – If you are lucky enough you will see ducks and other creatures 😉
My one tip – always turn right. When I came to a sign I always made sure it said “South Fortuna Stairs.” Other then the tiny stream crossing, you will still be on the gravel fire road for a little ways then when you get to your first split, turn right down a little path and you will be on a more of a trail till the end! There are adorbale foot bridges, and awesome clay like soil as you make your way to the stars. When you get to the base of the mountain you will see the stairs and no what to do! Drink some water and get ready to CLIMB.
This hike is awesome if you are looking for a short drive to a hike, feel like you are in nature and get a GOOD workout in. I headed back down after I climbed the stairs but you can dross over to the peak next to it which I believe is the real summit.
Thanks for reading! Let me know if you tried this hike or any other tips!
Happy Hiking!
Katherine
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