We tried the new Ruffin Canyon trail — here's what to expect
A new portion of the Ruffin Canyon trail opening has been making a lot of news recently, so we decided to check it out.
The big picture: Ruffin Canyon is a little ... rough ... on the feet, but the new dirt path connecting to Mission Valley is nice and smooth.
Zoom in: The new portion of the trail takes you into the Escala townhomes community, off Friars Road in Mission Valley.
- There's no parking there, so you'd likely want to start on the other side, either on Gramercy Drive or Shawn Avenue.
💭 Claire's thought bubble: Kate, Kate's pup Penny and I decided to explore the trail recently. Most of it runs through an old river bed and is very rocky.
- Not easy on the feet (or paws).
So many rocks. Photo: Claire Trageser/Axios
Definitely wear good shoes for this trail. Photo: Claire Trageser/Axios
Yes, but: Once we got to the bottom of the trail, we found the recently opened new portion.
- It was a smoother dirt path cut into the canyon, giving you great views and easier treading.
The details: It's 3 miles from Gramercy Drive down to Escala and back.
- Definitely not stroller-friendly. Be prepared for walking a lot on big rocks.
- Not too steep and could be good for kids and dogs if they don't mind scrambling on stones.
New portion of the trail. Photo: Claire Trageser/Axios
