Relocating to San Diego - Off Pavement Recommendations

So I'm moving to San Diego and my first thought was to sell my brand new 4runner (for about $10k more than I paid) and by a Rav4 hybrid because of gas being $2 more than in VA. This was until a few friends told me that there's tons of places to get off the pavement and enjoy the scenery. I'm not looking to do anything crazy, just want to get off the pavement and enjoy the view, what are some places I should go to? Are there any nice rides within an hour of downtown San Diego?

 

Welcome to San Diego; America's Finest City!

Do not sell your 4Runner. I love going to Baja most, Johnson Valley is 2+ hours away and world class terrain, Ocotillo Wells/Plaster city are just over an hour away, and some easier trail rides in between.

Here is a list from a quick google search:
https://offroadingpro.com/off-road-san-diego/

Honestly, I usually go a little bit further than an hour away because I usually go out for off-road races. IMO: So Cal is the best place to own a 4x4. So many options year round.

 

Honestly, I usually go a little bit further than an hour away because I usually go out for off-road races. IMO: So Cal is the best place to own a 4x4. So many options year round.[/QUOTE]

Agreed! Best place to have a 4x4.

Within a couple hours, you can hit the mountains, deserts, lakes, and beaches. Don't sell it and welcome to SD!

HMU if you're down to hit up some trails

 

Welcome to SoCal

 

California is vast, we live in the desert so there are a lot of BLM land from the southern tip to central cali but then gets sparse up north.
The northern coast is beautiful but limited (not widely published) dirt/forest roads - this is when you need to find the locals and start asking.

not two hours away but you shouldn't exclude southern utah, northern arizona, and northern new mexico.
you'll see some amazing desert landscapes. ton's of BLM land and tribal land.

oh. for easy, check out Palomar Mtn for views and Anza Borrego for all things desert.

 

This is awesome, I can't wait!

 

Hello

Did you find any good roads near San Diego?
I'm based out of North County San Diego & looking for some good roads.
I believe I'll be trying Nate Harrison RD soon up Palomar Mt.

 

sounds like fun...