Outdoors: Mark your calendar for the summer solstice
The summer solstice on June 20 signifies the beginning of prime time for birds, butterflies...
Outdoors
Police and firefighters to participate in Olympic-style sports competition
58th Annual U.S. Police and Fire Championships draws participants from across the country
Outdoors: Why are bird nests different?
Bird nests can vary from crude and simple to intricate and complex. Predators, weather, habitat...
Pairing her care for the planet with her love of creating art
A couple of ideas were rolling around for Lia Strell when she was a young...
Outdoors: A foggy yet informative day at Palomar Mountain State Park
Park interpretive specialist Will Meyst's knowledge of plants, animals and geology is extensive, and his...
Outdoors: Why do birds have different types of wings?
The various wing shapes of birds have evolved as food gathering, migration and habitat impact...
Outdoors: Butterflies bring happiness, magic
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Butterfly Jungle exhibit lets visitors get up close and...
Outdoors: Font’s Point a must-see destination
The commanding view over the Borrego Badlands and the connection with California’s early history make...
Do you need a reservation to get into Yosemite this summer? The Trump istration isn’t saying
Confusion reigns at iconic California park as visitors try to make vacation plans
Outdoors: A worthwhile trip to the beach
The many colors of nature and wildlife collide as birds and crabs scurry for food...
Take in sweeping views of San Diego from Mount Helix and its trails
The Yawkey Trail and other paths on Mount Helix offer views of nearby Dictionary Hill,...
An easy walk along the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers birds and a breeze
The roughly 2-mile walk in Imperial Beach travels along a section of the 24-mile Bayshore...
Outdoors: Seeing a common yellowthroat not that common
Trying to catch a photo of the bird takes patience and desire to visit wet...
Despite its modest height, South Fortuna Mountain is still a tough climb
This 5-mile loop through Mission Trails Regional Park takes hikers to the mountain's peak and...
A walk along the San Diego River in Lakeside is especially magical on a cloudy day
The easy path meanders under sycamore, oak and eucalyptus trees and es by a sweet...
Outdoors: Anza-Borrego’s palm groves beckon to be explored
Some of these palm groves scattered throughout the arid landscape are easy to reach by...
Decompress from a stressful day, week or month at the peaceful Orilla Trail
The gentle 2.75-mile out-and-back trail through the San Elijo Lagoon and Ecological Reserve is ideal...
A tale of three trails that lead to the Mount Woodson summit
This 5.8-mile loop includes the Mount Woodson peak and its popular Potato Chip Rock
Outdoors: Awaiting the arrival of springtime visitors
Provide water, food and protective cover to attract birds and other wildlife to your yard.
Have a spare 30 minutes? Try the easy and centrally located Stonecrest Village Trail
The Stonecrest Village Trail is short and sweet — ideal for a lunch break during...
Try Nighthawk Trail on Black Mountain for some exercise before the workday
The roughly 4-mile hike features steep and rocky sections plus excellent west-facing views on a...
Outdoors: House cat keeps watch over Mt. Hoo
Mea the Wilderness Cat acts as sheriff as she keeps an eye on wildlife ing...
For San Diegans across generations, these community gardens offer refuge, ion and ‘wonderful friendships’
For the last few years, the county has funded intergenerational community gardens, bringing together people...
Goodan Ranch features an expansive trail network — and an expansive history
The 3.6-mile loop at Martha's Grove Trail explores Poway's ranching history and pays homage to...
Eagle Rock is an impressive destination along the Pacific Crest Trail
The roughly 6.5-mile out-and-back hike travels along the iconic long-distance route to reach a unique...
Outdoors: Coming across something unfamiliar in the wild
Rocky Mountain or California clearwing, often referred to as a bumblebee or hummingbird moth, not...
A bucket list of 50 free things to do in San Diego County in 2025
Our list of things to do across the San Diego region includes hiking, major events,...
Push your limits in 2025 with one of these 7 regional hiking challenges
Challenges range from easy hiking around San Diego County to strenuous treks up the highest...
This week, hunt for sea stars along the coast — and help make community science ‘a success story.’ Here’s how.
The twice-a-year Solstice Sea Star Search encourages San Diegans to find sea stars at local...
The new Tidal Trail shows off recently restored wetlands in Del Mar
The 2-mile out-and-back hike offers scenic views of the San Dieguito River Lagoon and 84...
Outdoors: Preserving beauty of natural world — for own memories and for others
Anza-Borrego Foundation reminds visitors of its Leave No Trace campaign
Viejas Mountain in Alpine is culturally significant and a tough peak to climb
Hikers gain nearly 1,500 feet of elevation on the climb to the 4,189 foot peak...
Enjoy fall colors and 360-degree views from Stonewall Peak
The roughly 4-mile, out-and-back hike on Stonewall Peak Trail to the 5,730-foot summit is located...
Outdoors: Tailless raccoon makes reappearance on Mt. Hoo
Bob the Raccoon had been missing for a while but showed up last week.
5 family-friendly hikes in San Diego
A roundup of easy, accessible and even some educational hikes across San Diego County
A simple stroll around the Bernardo Bay Natural Area
Hikers can explore a section of the San Dieguito River Park, including Lake Hodges and...
‘A rite of age’: San Gorgonio looms over Southern California as a challenge for serious adventurers
Some love the challenge. Others find spiritual fulfillment or familial bonds. More relish saying they...
Outdoors: Who knew hummingbirds could be so aggressive?
An Allen's hummingbird chases off other birds, bees from Mt. Hoo nectar feeders.
Natural and urban spaces meet at Rose Canyon
The roughly 4-mile easy hike travels through a canyon named after San Diego's first Jewish...
King tides have returned to the San Diego coast. But are they really as royal as their name implies?
One Scripps oceanographer is throwing down the gauntlet on the term 'king tides.' Here’s why...
Breathe in fragrant pine and eucalyptus trees at Hillside Park
This easy, roughly 1-mile walk around a park is ideal after a week of election-fueled...
Outdoors: A tale of different types of squirrels in San Diego County
Cowan is a freelance columnist. Email [email protected] or visit erniesoutdoors.blogspot.com.
Tecolote Canyon makes for a simple weekday hike in the city
An accessible roughly 3-mile loop, though the canyon's proximity to neighborhoods and busy roads may...
A steep climb up El Cajon Mountain is not for the faint of heart
From the top of the 3,677-foot peak, hikers have a 360-degree view of the county,...
Outdoors: Rare chance to see comet makes one ponder about Earth’s future
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS was visible in our nighttime sky, but it won't be again for another...
Your guide to a wooded stroll along the Santa Margarita River Trail in Fallbrook
The river, surrounded by lush vegetation and shady oak trees, is one of the few...
Outdoors: A close encounter in the High Sierra
A close encounter with a bear while fishing in the High Sierra.
My 10 favorite San Diego County hikes from the last year
This list of favorite local hikes includes options in Point Loma, East County, La Jolla,...
West Sycamore offers a less common look at Mission Trails Regional Park
A 2-mile out-and-back hike that explores the northernmost section of Mission Trails and offers views...
Outdoors: Wildlife photographer a finalist in state contest
Brian Caldwell has become a champion in efforts to preserve the nesting habitat of grebes...
City Heights canyons are a journey through art, open space and community parks
This 2.5-mile loop travels through Manzanita and Hollywood canyons, plus offers a chance to explore
Wright’s Field in Alpine is a September sunset dream
The 245-acre preserve features an open grassland, oak groves and boulders, plus a variety of...
It’s about ‘that little spark’: After 51 years, the Nat’s Canyoneers are still celebrating San Diego hiking
This Canyoneer hiking season, which runs through next June, offers 62 group hikes across the...
Outdoors: Camera captures variety of activity on travel log
Fox, bobcat, deer and wild turkey among wildlife seen using old log to cross creek...
More than four months ago, they left San Diego to hike the PCT. Here’s where they are now.
Hikers come from all over the world to hike the trail that runs from the...
Beat the heat with this easy, breezy walk along Mission Bay
The Bayside Walk is a 4-mile path that es by attractions like Belmont Park and...
San Diegans can hit the trail to Mission Trails Regional Park
Organizers aim to raise $100,000 through the hike-a-thon to park efforts such as trail...
Outdoors: Almost time to see nature’s spectacular displays of color
Visits to California's Eastern Sierra never disappoint when it comes to fall foliage
A unique half marathon that takes runners from San Diego to Tijuana: ‘It’s a one-of-a-kind race’
On Sept. 15, runners will compete in the Binational Race, from Las Americas Outlets...
5 favorite hikes from Carlsbad to Point Loma
Some of our favorite hikes across San Diego County, from Carlsbad to Point Loma
A tough climb up East County’s historic Dictionary Hill
Hikers can see from El Cajon Mountain to the San Diego Bay on this roughly...
Trails at Kate Sessions Park offer a quick nature getaway with coastal views
The easy 0.8 mile loop shows off views of the ocean, Mission Bay and downtown...
Outdoors: Losing oneself while watching the dinosaurs of the insect world
Dragonflies and damselflies dart across a Palomar Mountain pond, providing the perfect setting for a...
Sandstone cliffs and native plants are on display at the Manchester Preserve
The 2-mile loop is fully exposed to the sun, but hikers can enjoy a nice...
S.D. Arts & Culture Newsletter: ’35MM: A Musical Exhibition’ opens in Mission Valley
Also this week, Poway filmmaker's 'Scuba' now streaming, HIllcrest's CityFest returns, Edinburgh Fringe goes online...
Follow a section of the Coast to Crest Trail along the San Dieguito River
The roughly 4-mile easy walk es by the Del Mar Fairgrounds and the San Dieguito...
Outdoors: Losing sleep over mockingbird’s nightly singing
Many find the best method to get a mockingbird to stop singing is to record...
A stroll along South County’s Lower Otay Reservoir
Hikers can enjoy views of nearby mountains and the water at one of San Diego's...
It took 8 years: Pershing Bikeway makes its formal debut
The project, which cost $14 million to construct, is designed to improve safety for both...
San Diego County shows off at golden hour on Iron Mountain
The moderate 6-mile round trip hike offers views of Mt. Woodson, the Cuyamacas and the...
Rising full moon stirs heart and mind, as it has done for generations
“The sun watches what I do, but the moon knows all my secrets.” J.M. Wonderland...
Arts and Culture Newsletter: Broadway’s Ben Platt, Bayfest, KT Tunstall, ‘Pulp Fiction’ and more
Also in this week's arts newsletter: San Diego Bayfest, KT Tunstall, "Pulp Fiction," Buzz Aldrin...
Find quick nature access in Clairemont at Marian Bear Memorial Park
The 1.6-mile out-and-back hike travels along a stream with shady, magical sections
Hidden trail leads to big coastal views in La Jolla Heights Open Space
At just over one mile long, this hike won't take too much time but rewards...
Outdoors: Turkey sightings can be quite the experience
Ernie Cowan's latest Outdoors column is all about wild turkeys.
Cool off with an easy walk at Batiquitos Lagoon
The 3.4 mile Batiquitos Lagoon Trail is a good option for a warm summer day,...
A journey through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the perfect kick-off to summer
This 1.5-mile hike along Razor Point Trail and the Beach Trail brings hikers to two...
Outdoors: Summer is peak season for night sky watchers
Get ready for meteor showers, solar and lunar eclipses, full moons, comets and intense lightning...
Outdoors: Annual wren nesting at Mt. Hoo a success
Camera allows peek inside cycle of house wren setting up home to bring up chicks...
Find a peaceful lake and easy trails at Chollas Lake Park
The city of San Diego's natural spaces can feel like a peaceful escape from the...
Take a swim in the inviting backcountry pools at Three Sisters Falls
Hikers can enjoy a beach day in the mountains at Three Sisters Falls. Located in...
Find a refreshing waterfall hidden in the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
This roughly 3-mile loop in the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is a challenging hike leading...
Try this steep climb overlooking Mission Trails and the San Diego River
Mission Trails Regional Park is home to quintessential chaparral vegetation, the San Diego River and...
Hummingbirds’ design has served them well
Hummingbirds can’t walk.That may sound surprising when you consider the mobility of these tiny buzz...
At Three Sisters Falls, new trail amenities and Kumeyaay name aim to help ‘revive the narrative of the land’
Hikers headed to the popular Three Sisters Falls in the Cleveland National Forest can expect...
Find art installations and bay views on this Shelter Island walk
This walk along the San Diego Bay es by several art pieces and offers views...
Mother Miguel Mountain is a tough climb – but worth it
The hike to this Chula Vista summit isn't easy, but hikers will be rewarded with...
Newest addition at Mt. Hoo has big paws to fill
From the wilderness came a miracle, thanks to a stubborn wild turkey.A friend was driving...
Coastal birds and springtime flower blooms await on Tijuana Estuary trails
The trails of the Tijuana Estuary are perfect for hikers, bikers, runners and birders looking...
The great journey north: Thousands arrive in San Diego County for an ultimate hiking challenge
Hikers from all over the country and world are hoping to complete the Pacific Crest...
One of the longest hikes in the country starts in San Diego County. Here’s your guide.
Hikers from around the world come to San Diego County each spring to walk the...
New trail at Cabrillo National Monument offers more tide pool access and west-facing views
A new trail at Cabrillo National Monument makes it easier for visitors to access the...
Quest to capture the Ghost worth the wait
I’ve seen the Ghost.Those who live or spend a lot of time in San Diego...
Treat your dog to a day at the bay or beach at these 8 San Diego County locations
My 8-year-old English bulldog Star loves the beach. I first realized this when I took...
The beauty of Balboa Park’s gardens is on full display with this easy walk
Balboa Park is home to museums, restaurants, an extensive trail network and — for the...
Find shade and sandy trails in Anza-Borrego’s Moonlight Canyon
Take advantage of springtime before the summer heat with this easy canyon hike in Anza-Borrego...
Explore tide pools on San Diego’s coastline at Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument is a place hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can return to time and...
Enjoy views of the bay and iconic landmarks on this Cabrillo National Monument trail
Breathe in the sea air and learn about the history and vegetation of Cabrillo National...
5 easy walks around San Diego County with pretty views
Climbing a mountain is one way to take in San Diego County’s most scenic spots,...
Ghost Mountain is a trip back in time with impressive Anza-Borrego scenery
With a name like Ghost Mountain, visitors to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park may expect to...