Running San Diego’s Famous Seven Bridges Path
This is probably one of my absolute favorite running paths in all of beautiful San Diego. This appealing 5 and a half mile loop is perfect for leisurely exploring one of the most vibrant and engaging parts of town. It’s aptly called the 7 Bridges Trail, and along the way, you will cross through and discover some of the most iconic and stunning features of Balboa Park, North Park, Hillcrest, and the quaint neighborhood of Bakers Hill. As I am currently training for the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon scheduled for June, I thought this would be an excellent training run since it overlaps with many of the same scenic paths.
By Chris Stone
Where to Start
Park alongside the West Mesa and Balboa Dr.
I like to start on the west side of Balboa Park at “West Mesa”. There is plenty of parking here and is easily accessible from 6th avenue. I recommend parking at the intersection of El Prado and Balboa Dr.
Bridge #1 - Cabrillo Bridge
Head west on El Prado, meandering through the vibrant heart of Balboa Park and passing the majestic California Tower, and you'll soon arrive at the iconic Cabrillo Bridge. This remarkable structure was built in the year 1914, just ahead of the Panama-California Exposition, and it proudly holds the distinction of being the state's very first multiple-arched cantilever bridge. Fun fact In those earlier times, a serene pond flowed gracefully beneath it. Now the raging 163 highway passes underneath.
Bridge #2 - Park Boulevard Bridge
Work your way through Balboa Park and enjoy the sights and sounds of San Diego’s historic park. Once you pass the Bea Evenson Fountain head north and you will pass over Bridge #2, The Park Boulevard Bridge. This short bridge extends over the Park Blvd and quickly passes by the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. Head underneath and go north!
Bridge #3 - Georgia St Bridge
As you pass through the north path of Balboa Park and work your way through Hillcrest you will get to the Georgia St Bridge. This iconic concrete bridge serves as a vital artery connecting twoSan Diego neighborhoods—Hillcrest and North Park. The historic structure was initially built over a century ago in 1914 and was granted official status in 1998. Its not the most exiting bridge but its very clear the neighborhoods it separates.
Bridge #4 - Vermont St Bridge
Work your way north along Park Blvd until you hit the weird intersection of El Cajon Blvd - Washington St, and Park Ave. Head south west and connect with Washington St until you get to a tiny street called Pascoe Ln. Here bear right and you will hit the Vermont St Bridge. Originally built in 1916 as a wooden trestle bridge, it was replaced in 1995 by the current bridge. I personally really love the inspirational quotes etched in the metal on the side!
Bridge #5 - Spruce St Bridge
Head south till you hit University Avenue. Then turn west and run until you hit 1st avenue. Here you will turn south and go until Walnut St, then dog leg down down to Brandt St, Then finally turn east again at Spruce St. Here you will pass the insta famous bridge built in 1912 that passes over the Kate Sessions Canyon. Here you will find a gorgeous swaying bridge with amazing views!
Bridge #6 - Quince St Bridge
Keep along Spruce St till you hit 4th avenue, then head south to Quince St, here you will get to San Diego’s oldest bridge. The impressive 236-foot-long bridge, which gracefully crosses 60 feet above the scenic Maple Canyon, was constructed back in the year 1905 specifically to provide pedestrian access to the bustling Fourth Avenue Trolley Station. This structure not only serves a practical purpose but also offers a glimpse into the architectural styles and transportation needs of its time. Once you pass over head south again to our last bridge.
Bridge #7 - 1st Ave Bridge
Heading south you will pass over a big bridge, and your last of the day. The 1st Avenue Bridge was shipped to San Diego and assembled in 1931 before being retrofitted for earthquakes in 2010. This is san Diego’s only steel arch bridge and at 463 feet long and 104 feet tall it’s a big one! Once over continue south till Laurel St and head east till your parking spot!