Hike of the week: Despite its modest height, South Fortuna Mountain is still a tough climb

Updated: 26 Feb, 2025 • 0 • min read

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Birds, specifically crows, flew overhead as I climbed the steep staircase leading to the summit of South Fortuna Peak in Mission Trails Regional Park.

The mountain stands at a relatively modest 1,094 feet, making it the smallest of the five peaks in the park. But as I watched the birds flying along the mountain's rocky face and took in the expansive view of Mission Trails Regional Park behind me, I felt as though I was on a much more epic adventure.

One of the perks of this week's hike was that it took place in Mission Trails, an easily accessible trail network in San Diego. This network has various entry points and trailheads, and offers routes ranging from leisurely strolls along a river to more challenging mountain climbs. My hike up South Fortuna served as a reminder that escaping to the hills for a workout and some peace and quiet can be simpler than we often think.

Use a navigation app like AllTrails, and don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path if you're feeling adventurous.

Shoes with good traction are also suggested, as certain parts of the trail are steep and rocky.

The mountaintop offers 360-degree views of other local peaks, including North Fortuna to the north and Kwaay Paay, Pyles, and Cowles mountains to the southeast.

First, park at the West Fortuna Staging Area located on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. A dirt lot and street parking are both available options. A bridge on the eastern side of the parking area leads to the trails.

After crossing the bridge, hikers will head northeast and start going uphill before turning onto the Clairemont Mesa Trail, a path that twists and turns and includes some stairs - a small preview of what hikers will encounter later in the hike.

The trail then meets up with the Fortuna Saddle Trail. Continue southwest on this trail for approximately 500 feet and then take a sharp left turn onto a wide dirt path that heads down a hillside. This unnamed trail briefly connects with the San Diego River Crossing Trail before hikers turn onto the Suycott Valley Trail.

Continue on the Suycott Valley Trail for 0.3 miles and then come to an intersection with the South Fortuna Trail, which goes south.

Hikers will stay on the South Fortuna Trail for approximately two miles, including the section that ascends steep wooden stairs leading to the summit.

At the 3-mile mark, after reaching the summit and beginning the return hike, head down the Fortuna Saddle Trail, which intersects with the trail you originally started on. This is a wide dirt road with steep sections that both ascend and descend, so exercise caution and take breaks whenever necessary.

When you reconnect with the Clairemont Mesa Trail, simply retrace your steps back to your vehicle.

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