A Morning at Flintkote Torrey Pines

California Gnatcatcher

Last weekend, we headed out for a hike on the Flintkote Torrey Pines Trail, tucked near the coast in San Diego, CA. The 3.8-mile trail is rated as easy, making it a relaxing way to explore nature without much effort.

Overlook

The morning started off warm and cloudy, but as we walked, the sun broke through, casting golden light across the landscape.

Overlook

Quiet Trails and Open Views

Fremon's bushmallow

The trail winds through low coastal scrub and native plants, with occasional open views that stretch toward the ocean.

Trail View

With the overcast skies, the surroundings felt peaceful and calm at first, but as the sun peeked through, colors brightened and brought the scenery to life. We enjoyed the gradual shift in the day’s mood as the trail unfolded before us.

Trail View

A Hawk on Watch

Red-tailed Hawk

One of our first exciting moments came when we spotted a Red-tailed Hawk perched proudly on a trail sign. It stood still, surveying the area as if guarding its territory.

Overlook

We watched it for a few moments, appreciating the sharp profile and wide wingspan before it finally took off into the sky.

Trail View

Swallows in Flight

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Further along, a couple of Northern Rough-winged Swallows darted and swooped over our heads. Their aerial acrobatics are always fun to watch, and we paused for a bit to follow their movements.

Overlook

In the brush below, many House Finches chirped away, adding a steady chorus of song to the morning air.

House Finches

A Burst of Color

Allen’s Hummingbird

We saw a few Allen’s Hummingbirds, flitting from flower to flower with their usual flash of iridescence.

Lesser Goldfinch

Not far behind, a couple of Lesser Goldfinches and an American Goldfinch provided even more bright color. Their quick movements and cheerful calls made them a delight to spot among the foliage.

American Goldfinch

A Special Pair

California Gnatcatcher

One of the highlights of the day was catching sight of a pair of California Gnatcatchers. These little birds can be tricky to find, so it was a treat to watch them work their way through the low shrubs, calling to one another in their soft voices.

Trail View

We were lucky to get a good, clear view of them.

Trail View

Watching the Flycatcher

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Later in the hike, we came across an Ash-throated Flycatcher, perched confidently on a branch. It gave a few raspy calls before flying off to another perch.

Overlook

Its pale underparts and crest stood out nicely against the greenery, and it held our attention for a good while.

Trail View

A Jay and a Sparrow Chorus

California Scrub-Jay

As we made our way toward the end of the loop, a California Scrub-Jay flew past with its characteristic boldness. In the underbrush, we saw a few Song Sparrows, some foraging and others singing their hearts out.

Trail View

Their melodies followed us down the trail and added a cheerful tone to the last stretch of the hike.

Song Sparrow

A Trail Worth Repeating

Overlook

By the time we returned to the trailhead, the clouds had mostly cleared and the sunshine had taken over. The Flintkote Torrey Pines Trail gave us a peaceful morning filled with beautiful views and memorable bird sightings.

Fiddler crab

It’s the kind of trail we’d happily return to—easy, scenic, and full of small surprises that make a big impact.

Chaparral honeysuckle