The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve fully reopened on March 1, allowing hikers to access trails, the park road and upper parking lots that were closed in Nov. 2025.

“Those trails were some of my favorites to hike, so I was disappointed when they closed,” Isabel Wallingford (12) said. “Now I am very excited to get back on the trails.”

The trails closed for four months because of Phase I, maintenance and utility improvements. Phase II will include Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades — renovations that make areas “physically accessible for people with disabilities.” At the reserve, ADA upgrades entail “new accessible parking stalls and paved pedestrian paths connecting the parking lot to the Lodge and restrooms.”

“There had to be some trail repairs and utility work done to the bathrooms,” a ranger who wished to remain anonymous said. “Phase II of this construction is set to occur in the fall this year, possibly including the re-striping of the parking lots, so thankfully, all of the reserve will be accessible for summer.”

The reserve is a biodiverse area where 754 animal species and over 300 protected native plant species live. 

“People love Torrey Pines, the views, the ecosystem,” the ranger said. “We have already seen a large amount of hikers return to these trails.”

Tourists and locals alike frequent the reserve to explore the beach, the extension or the trails on the bluff. Abby Feldman (12) is one such student who “missed the trails” during the closure.

“Torrey Pines is a really important part of the Del Mar community,” Feldman said. “It offers a great way to go outdoors and explore the local environment. The closing definitely had some effect on the community, but I am glad the trails are back open for summer.”