Challenging hike to a beach
Looking for a hike in the San Diego area that will offer a worthwhile challenge? The Ho Chi Minh Trail is a perfect trail to complete. It’s a downward trail that starts in a residential area (look for green fences) and ends at the beautiful Black’s Beach. Since the hike is nearly entirely on a downward incline, it probably won’t put you out of breath, even if you’re not in the best shape. However, it is definitely still a challenging trek down because it’s a pretty sandy trail with limited grip. There’s also some rope you’ll have to hold onto to get down, as well as a short wooden plank you’ll have to walk across. The plank can be a bit intimidating for those afraid of heights, but if you hold on to the tree branches, it helps a lot in getting to the other side.
Be sure to wear a good pair of shoes – don’t attempt it in slippers or flats. Tennis shoes like Nikes will suffice. In the end, you end up at Black’s Beach, where there’s black sand and smooth, beautiful rocks. I’d suggest taking the trail in the afternoon before sunset because it’s a beautiful reward to watch it in the end. Once you get to the beach, you can get back either by going up the trail again or by going around the beach and walking back to the residential area on the main road. The latter option will be about a 30-minute walk. Facing the ocean, if you walk to the right side, you’ll go through a nude beach.
Parking in the residential area is free. Highly recommended trail! It’s definitely a good adventure!
