Red Butte
Hiking Along the Trail below Red Butte
The Trail above the Sea
Dramatic Clouds
Torrey Benchmark
Beautiful Views
Red Butte
Location: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (CA State Parks)
Mileage: ~2.76
Style: Loop Hike
Fees: $12-$25 per vehicle (demand-based pricing)
Starting Out
Begin at the lower parking lot and take the stairs leading to Torrey Pines Park Road. This road winds upward and is shared with other hikers and the occasional vehicle. If you are a frequent visitor of the California State Parks, I recommend purchasing the California Explorer Annual Day Use Pass which allows you to park without a fee. The incline can be challenging but the view is rewarding.
From the upper parking lot, descend toward Red Butte. This spot offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
Follow the trails down toward the beach, taking in the dramatic cliffs' ever-changing perspectives. The descent ends with dramatic stairs leading to the shoreline.
Once on the beach, you can walk beneath the cliffs, reveling in the beauty of the surf, sand, and sea. Turn right and stroll along the beach northward back toward the lower parking lot.
Trail Options Along the Way
As you ascend, you’ll pass optional trails:
Guy Fleming Trail: A relatively easy loop with panoramic views.
Parry Grove Trail: A quieter option with shaded areas and native plants.
High Point Overlook: Near the top of the road near the upper parking lot, you can take the short spur trail to the High Point Overlook and visit Torrey Benchmark, the park's highest point with panoramic ocean views.
Why It’s a Must-Do
This Torrey Pines hike offers something for everyone—fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers, and out-of-town visitors alike. With its iconic sandstone cliffs, coastal views, and serene beach walk, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful coastal escape.