Annie’s Canyon Trail | Things to do in San Diego

Annie’s Canyon Trail tucked away in the southeast corner of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Conservancy Reserve in Solana Beach. Just south of this trial is the famous surfing community, Cardiff-by-the-sea. On a clear day from the peaks of the heals of Annie’s Canyon Trail, you can see the both professional and novice surfers. The smooth and consistent waves are created by the Cardiff Reef providing year around surfing. When the tide is low, a flat rock reef is reveled, along with tide pools, a popular attraction for visitors.

Annie’s Canyon Trail is a moderate-to-strenuous loop trail. It is named Annie’s Canyon Trail in honor of conservancy support, Annie, a thirty-year-old resident of Solana Beach. Annie had a desire to expand and restore the local wild areas for both nature and people to enjoy.

Accessible by a number of the park’s trailheads a mixture of steep switchbacks or winding paths to the overlook. Annie’s Canyon Trail expands, the 1.6 mile round trip trail that wraps along the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological preserve. Either trailhead you choose you can take in the breathtaking views of the wetlands before heading up the Skinny Slot Canyon. The San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve is one of the largest remaining wetlands in San Diego County. Ecological Reserve Conservations in the last five years have vastly improved water quality, habitat and biodiversity.

Skinny Slot Canyon was created and sculpted by water over time thus naturally eroding smooth sandstone walls. When you are climbing Skinny Slot Canyon there is a sense of mystery and wonder. The sandstone narrow corridors and sandy rocky footing offer a bit of a challenge, but the views of the Pacific Ocean and Lagoon are worth it.

Once you get to the top you are treated to a stunning view of the preserve and the glistening Pacific Ocean. Take a moment and enjoy the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Lagoon at an elevation of 200-feet above sea level. Not only is Annie’s Canyon Trail a San Diego treasure, but it is a family- and Dog friendly hike where you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors and the perfect San Diego weather!