Stretch Out in ‘Extension’ of Torrey Pines Reserve

The lovely canyons and sandstone ridges just inland from Torrey Pines State Reserve in San Diego were slated to become condo country in the late 1970s. Developers were paving roads and chopping down trees when conservation groups raised money to acquire additional land for the reserve.

The land, called the Extension, is set apart, north of the rest of Torrey Pines State Reserve and southeast of Del Mar.

It offers a couple of short, picturesque hikes across sandstone formations and among rare Torrey pine trees, which grow only in San Diego and on one of the Channel Islands, Santa Rosa.

Although the Extension lacks the coastal access of the main part of the reserve, it’s equally intriguing--a bit of native, natural Southern California ringed by housing developments.

In spring, look for lots of bright yellow blossoms--the bush sunflower, the taller tree poppy and sea dahlias. Hummingbirds hover around even more yellow, that of larkspur. Yerba santa, with its clusters of lavender flowers, contributes to the colorful show, as do purple snapdragons and red Indian pinks.

Directions to the trail head: The Extension has multiple entrances, many hard to find. First-time visitors should enter via Del Mar Scenic Parkway. From Interstate 5 south of Del Mar, exit at Carmel Valley Road and drive west about one mile. Turn right on Del Mar Scenic Parkway and go to the end of this cul-de-sac.

The hike: At road’s end, join Margaret Fleming Trail, a path that honors the niece of Abner Doubleday, who gained fame as the inventor of baseball (a claim later proved to be false). Fleming was an accomplished nature painter and a force in the establishment of the Extension. The trail loops around a basin dotted with Torrey pines.

Hikers also can follow the Mar Scenic Trail, which angles west and connects to the engaging DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Trail, which climbs a tree-shaded ridge to reach great views.

Trails here are in decent condition, but they’re a bit narrower and less defined than paths in the main part of the reserve. Wander at will, making a short loop or connecting paths in a figure-eight.

Eastern views are dominated by housing developments, but western panoramas take in Los Penasquitos lagoon, pine-covered bluffs and the Pacific.

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For more of John McKinney’s tips, visit www.thetrailmaster.com.