Sip, Stroll, Repeat
Pairing Hiking & Wine Tasting In San Diego
Looking for the perfect day trip that gets your heart pumping and your glass clinking? San Diego might be known for its beaches, but did you know it also boasts more than 100 wineries and 360 miles of hiking trails—often just minutes apart?
You can earn your wine with a solid hike (or leisurely stroll), then reward yourself with a glass of something delicious—all without having to leave the county. Here are a few suggestions, all of which are close to great wineries.
San Dieguito River Park Trails
Kick things off on the Mule Hill segment of the Coast to Crest Trail, starting near an 1870s adobe just off I-15. This gentle trail winds through the scenic San Pasqual Agricultural Preserve—perfect for a morning hike or bike ride.
Prefer something shorter and shadier? Try the easy 2-mile loop just at the entrance to Highland Valley, one of San Diego’s most charming wine regions. After your stroll, head to Mia Marie Vineyards, the first stop on the wine road. With 360-degree valley views, shaded seating, complimentary water, and the prettiest restrooms you’ll ever see at a winery (seriously), it’s the ideal spot to cool off and sip on a chilled glass of white.
Ready to break a sweat? Clevenger Canyon offers a more challenging climb through chaparral-covered hills, with excellent birdwatching and a fun photo op: oversized deck chairs at the peak. After your workout, wind your way back down through Highland Valley and hit any number of wineries lining the road. Hydration meets celebration.
Out on the eastern edge of Highland Valley, the Ramona Grasslands offer wide-open trails shared with horseback riders and mellow cows. It’s an easygoing hike with stunning views of Palomar, Cuyamaca, and Mount Laguna—a reminder that San Diego is full of surprises.
This area is home to the Ramona Valley Viticultural Area, one of the county’s original wine regions. After your walk, swing by a local farm stand for fresh snacks, then wrap up your day with a glass of wine at one of the nearby tasting rooms. Bonus: you’re already on Highland Valley Road, so the wine trail is right at your boots.
Trail-to-Tasting Tips
- Go early, sip later – Most wineries open around noon, so hit the trail in the morning and roll into your tasting with a post-hike glow.
- Pack for both – Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for the trail, and maybe a change of shoes (your feet will thank you). Afternoon breezes can sneak up on you, so throw a light jacket or wrap in your bag.
- Dress the part – From sporty caps to flower-crowned fedoras, hats are basically wine country accessories. Forgot yours? No problem—Mia Marie Vineyards has winery-branded tees, hoodies, and hats for both men and women.
- Weekends are wine days – Most tasting rooms are open Saturday–Sunday, 12–5 PM (with longer hours in the summer). Mia Marie even offers Friday evening hours, perfect for sunset sips after a hike.
