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Beyond La Jolla

Incredible Slot Canyons to the Pacific

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
La Jolla, USA
Great choice
10+ bookings last month.
  • 2 hours (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.9
·
· Pamela_M ·
Aug 2026
Granger is a great trail guide! He is patient and inspirational. We would not have been able to do this hike without him! Recommend wearing good shoes; otherwise this hike is doable if you are in okay physical shape. It was one of our top favorite parts of our trip to San Diego / La Jolla. Great views !
· Noam_S ·
Aug 2026
Somewhat challenging hike but so worth it for the views and beautiful canyons . Granger is a wonderful guide with not only expertise but beautiful wisdom.

Overview

Explore the slot canyons in Torrey Pines on this guided tour. Discover spectacular, hard-to-reach areas and take in views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit sandstone slot canyons and wind caves on the trek and stop at a majestic grotto with a waterfall. The hike up can be strenuous at times, but you will be rewarded with stunning views after summiting the cliffs.
  • Experience the slot canyons during your visit to San Diego
  • Your guide/photographer will provide photos of the experience
  • Sunrise, full moon, and private tours are available upon request
  • Ropes and climbing gloves are provided

What's Included

  • Ropes and climbing gloves
  • Free Photos
  • Bottled water
    Please bring your own snacks or water if you feel it necessary

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

    Take Torrey Pines Scenic Drive until it flows into a large dirt parking lot. Once in the lot go left towards the ocean. There is a brown/white building on the northwest side with Palm Trees around it. We meet at my car in the parking lot near it. Keep your eye on your text or emails for updates.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Canyoning in Torrey Pines begins when you meet your expert guide in the free parking lot. As an amateur photographer, they’ll give you tips along the way for snapping the best photos, no matter if it’s a daylight or moonlit trek.

But first, you’ll have to earn the incredible Pacific Ocean views with a climb into the slot canyon. Ropes and climbing gloves are included to help you descend into the canyon.

Once you reach the sandy shoreline at the bottom, hike across the secluded beach together to the canyon’s mouth. Make sure you take this walk at a comfortable pace; the hike back up the canyon can be strenuous.

Ready your hands and feet for a climb into wind caves, sandstone slot canyons, and a grotto with a waterfall. Keep climbing and you’ll earn an amazing view from the cliff summit, captured with a group photo.
1

Torrey Pines Gliderport

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

Alison_V
The views on this hike were amazing and one of the best parts of our 3-day trip to San Diego. My husband, 14 yr old son and I thought this hike had the right amount of challenge: not easy but not too difficult to complete. If you have a fear of heights, there are definitely some spots you will feel uncomfortable. Granger was an awesome guide and coached us through the trickier parts of the trail. He was patient, respectful of the terrain and the group's abilities and shared a great deal of knowledge about the surroundings. A must-do if you're in decent shape and like a physical challenge with amazing views during your stay in the San Diego area!

Reviews

4.9
based on 445 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sort by: Most insightful

Wow!!!!!

Jenna_C, Aug 2026
I cannot say enough about this experience. Granger does an amazing job at making you feel comfortable. Not only did he help us through this hike, he related it to real life situations that felt like a therapy session. We're taking away more than just photos from this trip.. thank you Granger! Also - yes, there are challenges and 'face your fears' moments - however - there are many different routes to take and Granger makes sure to keep everyone safe. There are options for all levels.

Wonderful Experience!!

Noam_S, Aug 2026
Somewhat challenging hike but so worth it for the views and beautiful canyons . Granger is a wonderful guide with not only expertise but beautiful wisdom.

Fun and beautiful hike

Pamela_M, Aug 2026
Granger is a great trail guide! He is patient and inspirational. We would not have been able to do this hike without him! Recommend wearing good shoes; otherwise this hike is doable if you are in okay physical shape. It was one of our top favorite parts of our trip to San Diego / La Jolla. Great views !

Challenging but so much...

EileenJ_L, Aug 2026
Challenging but so much fun! Our tour guide, Granger was so informative about the area! Definitely do it again.

Granger was absolutely...

Brandi_S, Jul 2026
Granger was absolutely wonderful! He was knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly helpful every step of the way. His passion for the area really showed through the fascinating historical facts and stories he shared, which made the experience even more enjoyable. He also took amazing photos for us throughout the hike, so we could simply enjoy the scenery without worrying about capturing the moment ourselves. That was such a thoughtful touch and greatly appreciated. As for the hike itself, it was much more challenging than my sister and I expected. This is in no way a reflection on Granger—he was an outstanding guide from beginning to end. The hike requires more skill and stamina than we anticipated, and had I realized the level of difficulty beforehand, I probably would have chosen a different hike. We still made it through, thanks in part to Granger’s encouragement and guidance. I only mention this to help future hikers know what to expect. If you’re considering this hike, be prepared with sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and a reasonable level of fitness. I’m 56 and my sister is 60, and while we completed it, we definitely found it to be a strenuous adventure. If you’re looking for an exceptional guide, I can’t recommend Granger highly enough. He truly made the experience memorable, and we were so grateful to have him leading the way.

Incredible!

Emily_S, Jul 2026
This is truly an amazing experience! However, if you have not hiked before or do not truly enjoy being in nature, this may not be the tour for you. If you enjoy the most incredible views, being in nature, and learning much more than you ever anticipated - then sign up now. Granger and Krystal were so kind and knowledgeable and gave us views that we will carry with us for years to come.

Granger was an awesome...

Allison_H, Jul 2026
Granger was an awesome guide. The hike was challenging and he has a lot of knowledge to offer along the way. He was very helpful to other hikers as well. The hike is not super far but definitely a fun time.

Awesome

Laura_O, Jul 2026
It's fantastic and Granger is the best. His calm words helped you through the amazing hike ever. Do it!

It takes strong legs!

Susan_S, Jul 2026
This trek through the canyon is challenging! As our excellent guide, Granger, warned us, it could force some of us out of our comfort zones. The elevations through the rocks were at sometimes steep and the paths narrow, but Granger encouraged us to take our time and he was willing to give us a hand if necessary. The views were spectacular..

Must-see San Diego Views

Sandy_J, Jun 2026
This is an intensive hike; you will be climbing up ropes and down canyons! Be prepared for a bit of a work out and a test to your skills, as well as for the most beautiful views in San diego. But you are in safe hands with your guide - he is more than experienced and an amazing hiking companion!

This was a great 2-hour...

Sarah_R, Jun 2026
This was a great 2-hour hike! Granger and Crystal were engaging and enthusiastic and very knowledgable of the local terrain and history. We went as a family group of 8 and it was a big hit.

Ho Chi Minh Trail (Saigon Trail)

Vivian_H, May 2026
Thank you for the wonderful hiking tour. I really enjoyed the breathtaking scenery and appreciated the brief history shared along the way. The trail was challenging at times, which made the experience even more rewarding. Seeing and being at the sandstone slots in their natural habitat was a highlight as well as reaching the top to see the million dollar view of the pacific, something I'll always remember. A special thanks to Granger, our tour guide, for his knowledge, enthusiasm, and engaging storytelling. He made the tour both informative and enjoyable from start to finish.

A Must Do in San Diego!

Alison_G, May 2026
I couldn’t recommend this experience enough! Granger, the host, was fantastic. He’s kind, knowledgeable and takes great photos. It’s a unique experience and one I won’t forget. Be prepared to get dirty and get out of your comfort zone (if you’re not used to hikes such as these).

San Diego hike .

Robert_P, May 2026
It was an amazing experience lot of information and a wonderful scenic view. Absolutely gorgeous family loved it

Our tour guide was...

Michael_M, May 2026
Our tour guide was amazing! He was very friendly and shared a lot of history of the area during the hike. This was definitely one for the books! To making more wonderful memories❤️

The guide made all the difference.

fsnbvkzyk5, May 2026
A fun adventure exploring the slot canyon in Torrey Pines. The guide made all the difference. We highly recommend it if you like to explore and hike.

Balanced view

Brooke_G, May 2026
Beautiful views of the canyon and coast line. Granger was extremely knowledgeable about the area and shared his passion for conservation which truly enhanced the tour. We pass through life looking one to two steps ahead with focus and courage while also keeping the big picture of nine to ten steps ahead within our awareness. This will stick with us.

Torrey Pines adventure

MARIA_C, May 2026
Our recent hike trip was an excellent experience from start to finish. The trail itself was well-maintained, with a mix of gentle inclines and scenic overlooks that made it enjoyable without being overly strenuous. What really stood out, though, was the guide—knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the area. He shared interesting facts about the local ecosystem and kept the group at a comfortable pace, making sure everyone felt included. Overall, it was a rewarding hike with beautiful coastal views with pictures included and a guide who genuinely elevated the experience.

Must do hike in La Jolla, San Diego!

Corina_R, May 2026
Granger and Krystal were great in this hike! Very knowledgeable, full of energy. The slot Canyons were so much fun to hike with them. I 100% recommend this tour if you visit San Diego. Great talks, great views and adventures. Relax and Unwind with an ocean view!

Informative Tour with a Knowledgeable Guide and Great Photos

YC_F, Apr 2026
Our tour guide was very experienced and informative. He shared great insights about the area and emphasized ways to protect the environment. He also did a fantastic job capturing great photos for us.

Slot canyon tour

Sabine_H, Mar 2026
Moderate hike but really fun. Very cool scenery all around! Definitely recommend! Guides were excellent too!

Unique hiking on the coast!

Jackie_O, Mar 2026
The hike is challenging and gorgeous! We appreciated every step and the scenery, as well as Granger's personal touches. It felt like part life coaching and part environmental education! I've been to San Diego a number of times and this is by far my favorite activity now. Next time I will try his sea cave tour.

Stunning and fun, but difficult

Jane_L, Mar 2026
This was stunning, but I would rate it as a black diamond as far as difficulty goes. You should be in good enough shape to climb a rock wall by rope.

This hike was such an...

Tonya_P, Mar 2026
This hike was such an amazing part of our friends/co-worker trip. Grainger and Krystal are just incredible. Highly recommend!

Awesome Adventure

Tommy_T, Feb 2026
This was amazing! Not too easy….not too hard. May have pushed a few limits. Granger was awesome. You can tell he really cares about his surroundings!!!

This was an amazing...

Megan_R, Feb 2026
This was an amazing experience! Granger and Krystal were so friendly, encouraging, and knowledgeable. We would not have known how to get to the slot canyons without them. Some parts were more challenging but manageable. The views were incredible. A must do if visiting the area!

A few scraps and cuts and...

Daniel_w, Feb 2026
A few scraps and cuts and definitely a challenge and the hike was challenging but once I got up to the top, it was definitely worth the work. Thanks Granger!

Incredible hike in La Jolla!

Darlene_T, Jan 2026
The incredible slot canyon hike was indeed incredible! The guide, Granger, was so knowledgeable and encouraging. The hike is challenging. You need to be able to scramble up and over rocks, manage steep inclines, and use a rope to get yourself up and down a rock face that is about 25-30 feet high. If you don't have good hand strength, this part of the hike isn't for you. You can skip it and wait for the group to go up to a viewpoint and come back. I would highly recommend the experience if you like to challenge yourself physically and mentally (Granger will espouse his 1-2-3 philosophy, and it works) and see magnificent views.

Highlight of San Diego trip

Maria_C, Dec 2025
I gifted this tour to my boys and their girlfriends all in their early 20’s! They absolutely loved this hike ! It took about 2 hours and they said it was challenging enough to make it fun ! The pictures the guide took were amazing and the views from the top spectacular!! The guide was super engaging and my son said he was inspiring as well ! It was definitely a highlight for hard to please young adults :) !

Great experience and an...

Gurleen_S, Dec 2025
Great experience and an awesome hike must do if u wanna experience san diego so beautiful and so serene
Member Pricing
From

$56.05

per person
Was $59.00(-5%)

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 18 days in advance.

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