Scenic Oak Canyon Trail and Waterfall

Immerse yourself in nature as you hike through the breathtaking Oak Canyon Trail, with its seasonal waterfall and diverse landscapes

Last updated: Jan 2024

  • Free

Description

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the picturesque Oak Canyon Trail in San Diego's Mission Trails Regional Park. The trail leads you along a stream above the historic Old Mission Dam, showcasing lush greenery and a seasonal waterfall during winter and spring months. As you hike the 3.4-mile round trip, be prepared for some light rock scrambling, making this trail suitable for all skill levels. Along the way, you'll encounter informative signs about the area's plants, animals, and history, making it an educational and engaging experience for nature lovers of all ages.

Perfect for

For solo
For two
For families with kids
For parents and grownups
Outdoorsy

Good to know

FREE
Trail
Open to public
Few hours
Street Parking

TikTok videos

Itinerary

  1. Start at Old Mission Dam
  2. Hike along Oak Canyon Trail (3.4 miles round trip)
  3. Optional: Combine with loop on Perimeter and Grasslands Trail (3.6 miles total)

Location

Oak Canyon Trail, San Diego, CA 92124

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Packing List

  • Comfortable hiking shoes with good traction
  • Water and snacks
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Camera
  • A small backpack

 4.6  ● Google reviews

  • Angelika McKinney

    3 years ago

    This was our first visit. A lot of people where there but spread out quite well so we still enjoyed this beautiful place with each other. My grand pup Millie had a blast. Made a lot of doggie friends. My grandson really enjoyed himself too. Didn’t want to leave.

  • Shawn Zamperini

    4 years ago

    Been going on a few hikes around the area lately and this one by far was my favorite. Not overly difficult as far as hikes go, and only one small section that involves any sort of cardio getting uphill, but the views are AMAZING. At times I felt like I was in a different state see the wife open plains without any buildings in sight. I really felt like I was able to connect with nature on this hike, something that is difficult to do compared to climbing Pyles Peak when your sight is just a bunch of houses. I came away from this hike in a very good headspace. The main warning I'd issue is the same with any other hike: It can get hot on this trail so bring extra water! It is a desert climate after all.

  • S R

    a year ago

    Hardly any trash cans on the trail.. and could use more signage to differentiate which trail is which but pretty well kept and has friendly hikers.

  • Lorelei Wong

    3 years ago

    Family friendly hike. We went after the morning rush around lunch time and it was still pretty busy even in the early afternoon heat. Pup had fun splashing around in the water to cool down.

  • Gavin Zau

    2 years ago

    Beautiful and easy hiking trail. Very near highway 52 exit. Lots of big oak tree. San Diego River runs through it.
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