In a city full of pavement, it is nice to have a green space in close proximity to your home. Marian Bear Memorial Park is an ideal hiking destination for those looking for a short, centrally located trail. The park stretches from Interstate 5 to Interstate 805 over 467 acres. Of the 467 acres of dedicated natural parkland, hikers can enjoy over three miles of mostly flat trails along the length of the canyon and beneath the overpass. Because of its length and little elevation gain, this trail is also suitable for families and pets.
The name of this park is an ode to Marian Bear—a naturalist and conservationist who dedicated her time towards preserving open spaces for future generations.
Bear
also took much of the initiative for realigning the highway from the canyon floor the north hillside. Today the Marian Bear Memorial Park is dedicated to her tireless efforts and allows the public the opportunity to hike through open land.
The trailhead picks up at the edge of a dirt parking lot. Here, there are park benches for picnics and restrooms available. Follow the sole hiking trail forward to the east. You’ll soon cross a short wooden footbridge. This is where the trail begins to get a bit more technical with many loose rocks. Because of the technicality of this trail, it is advised to wear hiking boots for your safety.
As you walk through the canyon, you may hear the roar of cars in the distance. Although the trail runs parallel to the 52 freeway, this small nuisance can be overlooked by the sheer beauty of the trail. Despite its proximity to civilization, you will still feel worlds away from the city. Continue walking alongside the Interstate until you reach the underpass. Here you can continue forward, or you can re-trace your steps back to the trailhead.
If you continue forward, follow the narrow, single-track trail beneath the freeway. You’ll see heaps of graffiti to your left, an unfortunate part of this trail being so close to the city and easy to hike. Once you complete your walk beneath the overpass, you will come across a small wooden bridge. The trail will split here. To your left, the trail gains a decent amount of elevation for a quick cardio boost. To your right, the trail takes you along another flat stretch of trail. Both paths are short, but suitable for adding some length onto your trek. Once you’ve explored either or both paths, return back under the overpass and through the shaded trees to return back to the trailhead.
Marian Bear Memorial Park Tips
Tip #1: Dogs are permitted on the trail, however they must be on a leash.
Tip #2: Stay on the trail. There are many portions of the trail where poison oak is prevalent.
Tip #3: Do not hike here after rainfall. There are portions of the trail that get flooded and can be difficult to navigate around.
Tip #4: Hike here with friends, not solo. There are a few places where it is easy to get lost, albeit easy to get on track again because the trails are short.
Tip #5: A usually well-maintained bathroom is located at the trailhead.
Driving Directions
From downtown San Diego: Take I-5N for 10 miles. Take exit 26B for CA-52E. Continue on CA-52E and take exit 2 for Genesee Avenue. Turn right on Genesee Avenue. Turn right once again when you see the wooden sign for Marian Bear Memorial Park. Follow the dirt road a short distance until you reach the parking lot.
Difficulty: Easy
Total Distance: 2-3 miles
Trailhead Address: 5491 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92117
