When I was in elementary school (and lived in the Valley of the Sun), my dad had this great idea: We were going to hike a different mountain every weekend.

I hated it. So, so much. I think I actually complained enough that we stopped after a few weeks, because who wants to listen to an 11-year-old girl whine all the way up and down (hiking down is always worse) a mountain?

Things have changed a bit since the early 90s. Yes, slip dresses and plaid shirts are back in style, and I’m still not exactly an outdoorswoman, but I don’t mind hiking, as long as it’s not a super difficult trail. And if it involves the beach, I might even like it.

Still, I’m sure Toby was a little surprised when I suggested we go on a hike the other weekend. I had picked up San Diego Magazine (the beach trail we like to run on is on the cover!) and was inspired by their list of different places to bike, run, swim and hike in the area.

We decided on Torrey Pines State Reserve, which isn’t too far from our house.

As you can see, it is absolutely gorgeous there. We weren’t the only ones with the bright idea to hike on these breathtaking trails on a perfect Sunday afternoon — we saw tons of people, from families with small children to a man running shirtless and barefoot (possibly training for some kind of torturous triathlon). But it wasn’t too bad.

One of the things I liked best about Torrey Pines is that you can choose your own adventure, so to speak. We parked at the bottom of a hill and walked up the road, chose a few trails to try and then walked back on the beach. But you can also choose to drive up the hill and park at the top, to go on just one (or all!) of the trails, or whatever you’re in the mood for.

If you go, make sure you bring some sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses. You’ll probably want a windbreaker or long-sleeved shirt, because it can be a little breezy. Don’t forget your camera. And please, wear shoes!