A Slot Canyon Surprise

LagoonSlot CanyonSan Diego

May 30

Written By Bridget Haley

Recent Hike: Annie’s Canyon Trail

📍 Location: Solana Beach, CA
🥾 Distance: 3.36 miles
📈 Elevation Gain: 692 ft
📷 Gear Used: Sony a7iv

Favorite moment: Walking through the slot canyon

Forget long drives to distant national parks – what if I told you there’s a genuine slot canyon adventure tucked away right next to a quiet neighborhood in Solana Beach? That's exactly what you'll find at Annie's Canyon Trail, and trust me, it's a surprising gem you won't want to miss.

This isn't your average stroll in the park. Annie's Canyon packs a punch with a short but incredibly engaging trail. The highlight, of course, is the slot canyon itself. Imagine squeezing through narrow, sculpted sandstone walls, clambering up short ladders, and navigating impressive, tall steps that make you feel like you're on a true expedition. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s surprisingly accessible!

In fact, I enjoyed it so much, I hiked it twice! The canyon section is relatively short, making it easy to loop back and experience the magic again. While it's great for the whole family, keep in mind that the tight squeezes, ladders, and those tall steps mean it's definitely not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Some parts of the trail leading to and from the canyon are also quite steep, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.

Once you emerge from the cool embrace of the slot canyon, you're rewarded with breathtaking views of the San Elijo Lagoon. It’s a stunning contrast – moving from the intimate, ancient feel of the canyon to expansive, picturesque wetlands. The sheer beauty from the top is absolutely worth the climb.

One of the most charmingly "weird" things about Annie's Canyon is its location. It feels truly unique to discover such a distinctive geological feature nestled right beside suburban homes. It's a testament to the unexpected wonders that can be found in plain sight.

A quick tip: Southern California sun can be intense! This trail can get pretty hot, especially within the canyon, so definitely bring plenty of water.

Annie's Canyon Trail is a fantastic reminder that adventure doesn't always require a long journey. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones hidden just around the corner. Go check it out and prepare to be surprised!

Thanks for journeying with me!
– Bridget