2 min
Overview
Torrey Pines Reserve Extension is an addendum to the more famous and more heavily visited main reserve. This little pocket of wilderness is often overlooked, although the peace and quiet adds considerable charm to the beautiful habitat. This diminutive parcel of land features mature trees, some of which are enormous, ocean views, and a sense of solitude nearly impossible to find on most of San Diego’s coastal trails. From the Ridge Trail After the main reserve was officially established in 1959, another 11 years would elapse before the establishment of the the extension. The sandstone bluffs on which the main reserve stands managed to remain undeveloped, aside from the golf course, due to widespread conservation efforts. Sadly, this was not true of the more heavily-wooded northern bluff. After the establishment of the main reserve, conservation groups (Sierra Club, Torrey Pines Association, Citizens Coordinate) turned their attention to the northern bluff, which had lost a significant amount of Torrey pine habitat to development. The tiny 197 acre parcel set aside saved 1,500 trees either from destruction or ornamental use in landscaping for high-value homes. While 1,500 trees sounds like a whisper in the forest, bear in mind that there are an estimated 3,000 Torrey pines remaining in the natural habitats of San Diego (there are more on Santa Rosa Island in Channel Islands National Park). The extension, while being much smaller than the main reserve, holds half of the trees. Torrey pine cone This write up will guide you through the two main trails into the extension. Start by parking your car in the cul-de-sac at the end of Del Mar Scenic Drive. This trail begins a moderate climb through dense coastal scrub, richly aromatic with scents of three varieties of sage, as well as the sweetly spicy coastal sagebrush. Occasional Torrey pines punctuate the low scrubs before the trail arrives at junction that climbs away on the left. Turn left here. Sun setting through the branches After passing beneath a massive Torrey
Trail Stats
4.0 km
106 m
112 m
24 m
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