Torrey Pines Hiking Destination to Close for Over a Year for Major Renovations
California State Parks announced the popular San Diego site will undergo utility improvements and accessibility upgrades, with a full closure starting September 21.
Torrey Pines Lodge and its associated hiking trails, a popular San Diego destination attracting approximately four million visitors annually, will close for a significant renovation project beginning Monday, September 21. California State Parks confirmed the closure, which is expected to last over a year.
The ongoing renovation project, split into phases, aims to improve infrastructure and accessibility within the natural reserve. The first phase, which concluded in February, involved replacing underground sewer, electrical, and telecommunications lines, as well as demolishing an old restroom facility.
The second phase, commencing Monday, is slated for completion by early 2027. According to a statement from California State Parks, this phase will focus on continuing utility improvements, including the installation of new gas, water, wastewater, and communication lines. Accessibility upgrades are also planned, such as updated accessible parking stalls and an accessible pedestrian path connecting the upper parking lot to the restroom and Lodge.
Regular visitors have expressed support for the renovations, despite the inconvenience of the closure. Tom Brotherton, a hiker who has visited Torrey Pines for over 40 years, told CBS8 that the upgrades are necessary. "I’m bummed, but they gotta put in the bathrooms. They’ve been trying to do that for the last 30 years, 20 years," he said.
Currently, the trailhead utilizes multiple portable restrooms. The renovation plans include the construction of a permanent restroom facility connected to the main sewer and water lines. Trish Hess, another frequent visitor, told CBS8 that she believes the closure is a worthwhile trade-off. "I think it’s a great trade-off—shut it down for a bit, get the work done, make it look more beautiful, especially for visitors coming to San Diego," she stated.
While the Lodge and its immediate trails will be closed, South Beach, North Beach, and Torrey Pines State Beach will remain accessible to the public during the construction period.