Reserve Extension

The Reserve Extension is a separate section of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in Del Mar, north of Los Peñasquitos Lagoon, with four short trails through coastal sage scrub and sandstone. Parking is free on nearby streets. While the main reserve is closed for construction, State Parks lists the Extension trails as open, which makes it the place to hike at Torrey Pines until spring 2027.

Getting There

State Parks' Extension map lists three ways in: from Del Mar Scenic Parkway off Carmel Valley Road, or from Mar Scenic Drive or Mira Montana Drive off Del Mar Heights Road. There is no lot or fee; the park page says free public parking is allowed near the trailheads. Park legally and keep driveways clear on these residential streets.

The Trails

• Mar Scenic Trail, ½ mile: follows the seasonal creek through the Extension.
• Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Trail, ½ mile: views across the marsh to the main reserve and the ocean.
• Margaret Fleming Nature Trail, ¾ mile: through coastal sage scrub.
• Red Ridge Loop Trail, ⅓ mile: views of the lagoon, the main reserve and colorful eroded sandstone.

All four together are a short morning. Download the Extension trail map (PDF) before you go.

Rules

The Extension is part of the natural reserve, so the same rules apply: stay on the trails, no dogs or horses, no bikes on trails, no food (water is fine), no smoking and no collecting plants or pinecones. It closes at sunset.

Good For / Maybe Skip If

Good for: a quiet Torrey Pines hike during the 2026–27 closure, and lagoon views.

Maybe skip if: you want the beach. The Extension has no beach access; use the state beach instead.