How long is California Mission Trail?

California Mission Trail is 76.0 km (47.2 mi) long. Most walkers complete it in about 3 days, not counting stops.

How hard is California Mission Trail?

It is rated expert, with roughly 1,671 m (5,482 ft) of total ascent. The combination of distance, ascent and exposure puts this at the top end of what a day hike can be.

How long does California Mission Trail take?

Allow around 20 hr of moving time. Add a further 30 to 60 minutes for breaks, photographs and lunch.

When is the best time to hike California Mission Trail?

April to October is the most reliable window. Spring through autumn is the natural window, and shoulder season means fewer people on the narrow sections.

Can you bring dogs on California Mission Trail?

Dog access is not formally recorded for this route. Local rules usually allow dogs on a lead, but check signage at the trailhead before you commit to the walk.

Is California Mission Trail suitable for children?

It is a stretch for younger children. At 76.0 km with 1,671 m (5,482 ft) of ascent, it suits teenagers and confident young walkers rather than a family stroll.

Is California Mission Trail a loop?

No. It runs point to point, so you will need transport at the far end or a plan to walk back.

California Mission Trail

Name: California Mission Trail
Address: California, United States

ExpertCalifornia · United States

GPX

Distance: 76.0 km (47.2 mi)
Elevation gain: 1,671 m (5,482 ft)
Typical time: 20 hr
Difficulty: Expert
Route type: Point to point
Highest point: Not recorded

About California Mission Trail

California Mission Trail is a 76.0 km hiking route in California, United States. It climbs roughly 1,671 m (5,482 ft) along the way. Most people take around 3 days at a comfortable pace, plus stops. The combination of distance, ascent and exposure puts this at the top end of what a day hike can be.

It forms part of a long-distance path, so it links cleanly into multi-day itineraries.

Start and finish are in different places, which means public transport or a second car is part of the planning. It is not consistently waymarked, so carry a map or a downloaded track rather than relying on signs.

It walks well across three seasons, with spring and autumn offering the best combination of light, temperature and quiet paths. The nearest town of any size is La Jolla, about 7.3 km away, which is where most people base themselves.

In short, California Mission Trail suits experienced mountain walkers who are comfortable with exposure, navigation and long descents. Dog access is not formally recorded here, so check locally before bringing one.

Route map

Expert76.0 km1,671 m

Numbered marks every 10 km

Route line from OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL. View the source relation

The route in detail

The route is normally walked in the direction described below. The first third does most of the climbing, so settle into a slow rhythm early rather than trying to hold a flat-ground pace. Because the finish is away from the start, check return transport before committing to the second half.

Highlights

Long-distance path
Part of a long-distance path
Over 1,000 m (3,281 ft) of ascent

Know before you go

Best season: April to October
Waymarked: Not consistently
Surface: Mixed natural surface
Dogs: Not recorded, check locally
Wheelchair access: Not accessible
Entrance fee: No fee recorded
Camping: Not recorded
Drinking water: Carry your own
Toilets: Not recorded
Mobile coverage: Generally usable
Parking: Park at the trailhead, arrive early in high season
Emergency: 112 in Europe, 911 in North America

How this trail scores

Computed from distance, ascent, terrain features, surface and access data.

Scenery: 56/100
Adventure: 94/100
Difficulty: 100/100
Accessibility: 13/100
Family: 7/100
Dogs: 47/100

Tips from the trail

Start at first light. A long day is far more pleasant when you are not racing the sunset on the descent.
Aim for april to october for the most reliable conditions.
Download the track to your phone before you leave. Signal is not guaranteed.
Break the route into stages and decide your turnaround time before you set off.
Leave nothing behind, including fruit peel, and stay on the marked line to protect the ground either side.

Warnings

This route is long and sustained. Turn back early rather than late if the weather closes in.
Outside the main season expect snow, ice or closed access on the higher sections.

Safety

Emergency services in United States are reached on 911. Tell someone your route and expected finish time before you set off, particularly if you are walking alone. Mobile coverage is generally usable along this route, but do not rely on it as your only plan. If the weather deteriorates, descending the way you came is almost always the safer option.

What to bring

Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots
Weatherproof jacket
At least 1.5 litres of water
Trekking poles for the descent
Offline map and compass
Head torch and spare battery
Extra warm layer
Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sun cream
Real food, not just snacks

Photography

Overcast light suits this route better than harsh midday sun, especially under tree cover. Take the shot on the way out. Conditions rarely improve by the time you come back past. A wide lens captures the scale, but a short telephoto is what turns a good view into a photograph.

Frequently asked questions

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Trails near California Mission Trail

Other routes within a short drive, ranked by distance from this trailhead.

Easy

Hillside Loop

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Distance: 1.6 km
Elevation gain: 36 m
Typical duration: 24 min

Expert

Coast to Crest Trail

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Distance: 113 km
Elevation gain: 2,484 m
Typical duration: 30 hr

Coastal
Mountain
Long-distance path

Moderate

Hellhole Canyon County Preserve

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Distance: 14.0 km
Elevation gain: 308 m
Typical duration: 3 hr 23 min

Canyon and gorge

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