Sunset Trail

Area Status: Open

Sunset Trail

Trail Views

Elevation Gain	500
Distance	4.6 miles one way
Pets Allowed	Yes
Fees	Adventure pass required per vehicle
Hike Time	3 to 6 hours
Difficulty	Easy
Best Seasons	Year Round
Location	Mile marker 19.1 on Sunrise Highway
Ranger District	Descanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235

Truly a Gem of the Laguna Mountain and the Cleveland National Forest, the Sunset trail takes hikers traversing through dense forest, vast meadows, grazing cattle, gorgeous viewpoints and during a wet year, a pond and several large lakes. On a clear day, this trail offers impressive panoramic views of mountain ranges, the Pacific Ocean and downtown San Diego. Listed as easy, this trail can range in distance from a 3.25 mile loop or a 9.2 mile round trip out-and-back journey (connecting with the Big Laguna Trail). Located off of Sunrise Highway (SR-1) at mile marker 19.1, parking is located on the shoulder on either side. This trail is for hikers only (though connecting trails can be used for bikers and equestrian) and is great for families, kids, couples, or even solo!

Trail Views

For more information on hiking or camping on this trail, please see our article on highlights and special features, which can be found here: Spotlight: The Sunset Trail . For a list of more trails to explore in your area, please see our Recreation Trail Guide

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	Sunset Trail is open from Meadows Trialhead to Water at the Woods.
Fees:	Adventure Pass Required: To purchase a pass for this location visit a Cleveland National Forest office, find a local Adventure Pass vendor or purchase online at https://www.recreation.gov/.
Restrictions:	Hiking only
Closest Towns:	Pine Valley, CA
Operated By:	Forest Service

General Information

Directions: I-8 east from San Diego to Sunrise Highway to Meadow Information Kiosk after first cattle guard. Vehicles should parking available along both sides of the highway.