Imperial Beach offers some of the most unique coastal and wetland walking routes in Southern California. Starting a trek near the neighborhood pockets close to 5th Street and Iris Avenue puts you within striking distance of incredible natural landscapes, and vibrant birdlife.
The length of the South McCoy Trail depends on how you choose to hike it, as it connects into the wider network of paths at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve:
- Standalone / Specific Segments: Portions of the trail or specific out-and-back extensions run roughly 1.5 miles(round trip).
- Full Reserve Route: When combined with connecting paths like the River Mouth Trail starting from areas near the local access points (such as Tower Road or Iris Avenue), the total trek typically spans about 2.5 to 4 miles round trip.
The terrain is flat, easy, and features less than 50 feet of elevation change, making it a comfortable walk while offering great views of the estuary and local birdlife.
