A torrey pine along the trail.Named for the "rarest pine in North America" (according to the reserve map), this beautiful stretch of land features 2000 acres of beach, salt marsh, chaparral and woodlands, and is amazingly unspoiled for a Reserve found within the limits of a large city such as San Diego. The 8 miles of trails wind up chaparral hills and then down the multi-colored stone cliffs where they deposit hikers onto a beach swirled black and tan by the tide's action on the deposits.
This location is said to be good for birding, with the state's website tracking the reports of birders who wish to share their finds. On May 2nd, there were 75 species listed from the monthly bird survey. Aside from the ubiquitous common raven (Corvus corax), a visitor might also be treated to views of a red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus) or the beautiful blue scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).
The climate yesterday, much like the rest of coastal San Diego, was warm and sunny but the slight breeze made hiking a treat. In addition to the visitors who chose to walk the trails, I was particularly impressed by those who decided to run on the steep paths, no doubt improving their climbing muscles in the process. Torrey Pines State Reserves is also a popular place to run—barefoot or shoed—on the beach, which is great for the calves.
More excellent information about the ecosystem, geology, native peoples of the area, and reserve features can be found on the official website below.
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