Hiking Torrey Pines

Earlier this summer, my rheumatoid arthritis (RA) started flaring and my activity levels started dwindling. It's hard to be active when you feel like the Tin Man - creaky, stiff and in need of a little oil on the joints (not to mention that it's not great to overdo those joints when they're inflamed!). I thought it might just be one of those things that I had to live with - an unavoidable progression of the disease. But my doctor thought I might just need a little tweak of medication. So, we added a few pills a week to the mix and bam! Within 6 weeks - gone was the hobbling out of bed every morning, the stiff hands, the aching feet. And back was my yearn to get out and explore. (Yay for smart doctors!)

Since you never know how long remission from RA will last, I have been stuffing as much into this wonderful period as I can. Hiking has been big on the list. I've been having a lot of fun finding new places to explore in the San Diego area. We've done a variety of hikes so far - some steep inclines, some moderate hikes and some gentle sloping hills (more nature walks than hikes, IMO). I've enjoyed them all, but Torrey Pines State Reserve has been my absolute favorite by far. It's not the most challenging of hikes, but it is certainly the most beautiful.

There are various trails that take you along cliffs that run by the ocean. You can see as far north as Carlsbad, CA and as far south as La Jolla. Looking at miles of crystal blue water and listening to the sound of waves rhythmically rolling into the rocks below you definitely takes you away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

I think one of the reasons I like it so much is because it reminds me of the quietness of my childhood. Growing up in rural New Hampshire, summer days were often spent in the woods or by a lake - no sounds of cars rushing by or machines humming along - just the wind whooshing through the trees and the delightful laughter of childhood friends.

Mr. ValleyWriter and I agree this will definitely become a top choice for places to take our families when they come to visit. The trails are easy enough for everyone - young, old and everywhere in between - to meander along. If you live nearby or are visiting the area - I'd highly recommend it!