Mt. Soledad

Mt. Soledad wins the prize for the most peaceful and breathtaking view of San Diego and its coastline. The 822-foot mountain oasis, located between La Jolla and Pacific Beach, is topped by the famous 29-foot cross, a Veterans Memorial. First used as a Memorial Park in 1914 and was originally a tribute to Korean War veterans, it is now surrounded by more than 2,400 black granite plaques displaying photos, names and stories of American servicemen and women from other foreign wars and conflicts. The Soledad Natural Park surrounds the memorial with wide-open grass areas, benches on which to rest and enjoy the sights, and descending nature walkways to view the native chaparral and abundant wildlife.

Mt. Soledad has been a popular cycling destination with numerous routes attracting hikers, cyclists, and those in search of the ideal view for decades. Experience a Soledad bike tour beginning under the Mt. Soledad cross taking in the breathtaking view and continuing down the mountain to La Jolla’s famous coastline. The tour is an easy ride, mostly downhill and suitable for riders of all skill levels. La Jolla Kayak. (858) 459-1114. www.lajollakayak.com. Hike Bike Kayak. (858) 551-9510. www.hikebikekayak.com

Related Articles:  Snorkeling In San Diego  |  Fly Over San Diego