Four bridges of Balboa Park: an urban walk

Overview: An urban walk, traversing four bridges. About 7 miles, duration about 3 hours. Mostly sidewalk, with 1.5 miles of dirt trails. Total elevation gain about 600 feet. This is not a casual stroll !!! We'll be walking briskly, about 3 mph, and there is a very steep hill. An approximate map of the route is posted in the Photos section below, but we'll take a slightly different path.

Route: Start at the intersection of El Prado & Balboa Drive. Walk over the Cabrillo bridge, past the museums, to the rose garden. Then back west and across the Quince St. pedestrian bridge, then south on Maple Canyon trail. North through Bankers Hill Canyon, then over the Spruce St pedestrian suspension bridge. East back into Balboa park at the Marston house. Down into the 163 valley onto Cabrillo canyon pedestrian bridge. South on the Bridle Trail to the Old Fire Alarm Building and return to our start point.

Hazards: There are two very steep dirt trails that we'll walk on, so you may want to bring hiking poles for stability. Also, there is a narrow street we will walk on that has no sidewalks, so walkers will need to be alert for cars.

Start time: Meet at 8:30am, start walking promptly at 8:35am.

Where: Intersection of El Prado & Balboa Drive

Parking: Parking inside Balboa Park is now metered. Some free parking on 4th, or 5th ave.

Restrooms: Public restrooms at start/end of walk in Balboa park.

Bring a positive attitude! This is a diverse, inclusive, welcoming event. No negative energy allowed :-)

Release of liability: By clicking "Attend" button below, attendees agree to assume all risks of injury and to not hold event organizer liable in any way. Attendees understand that the organizer is simply arranging the walk and is not assuming any responsibility. Attendees are fully responsible for any injuries or damages they incur.