Torrey Pines State Reserve050

The 2,000 pristine acres that make up Torrey Pines State Reserve can be described as some of the most beautiful land in all of California and should not be missed. A visit here gives children a glimpse of what the California coast looked like before its development, and one can imagine what life must have been like for the Kumeyaay people, the Native Americans who inhabited this area. The Park offers 8 miles of hiking trails, some more difficult or rewarding than others. For little children, try going halfway on the Razor Point Trail - just enough to soak in the gorgeous views. Be sure to visit the museum at the Visitor Center to see the exhibits of the natural and cultural history of the Reserve. The many varieties of taxidermed local animals with "Please Touch" signs will amuse the kids, and you can pick up all kinds of wildlife fact sheets with pictures to color for only a few cents apiece. The Visitor Center building itself is also historically significant. Formerly a restaurant called the Torrey Pines Lodge, it was built in 1923 by Hopi Indians in the traditional style with adobe bricks made on the premesis. Free docent-led walks are available year around on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, at 10am and 2pm. Parking fee: You can pay at the kiosk at the park entrance. But if it's unmanned, pay at the machine at the lower parking entry, or at the Visitor Center at the top of the entrance road. Animals: Only guide animals are allowed in the reserve.