Padre Junipero Serra Trail / Old Mission Dam

Start at the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center. The building and adjacent parking lot are located at the southwest end of the park just off Mission Gorge Road. This wide paved trail heads northeast toward the remnants of the Old Mission Dam (California Historical Landmark #52). The route follows the path of the San Diego River along a gorge that bisects the park. The path has great views of the hills and mountains and there are numerous markers that provide information about the area and its history. A few of the many trails in the park branch off from this one. After about 1.75 miles, you’ll reach the landmark. Spend some time there and then head back down the trail. Be sure to check out the Visitor Center before leaving.