Mt Helix is a treasure! This is the best place for sunrise - the light is magical! Fantastic views in every direction. The trails have beautiful native plants and sitting benches. Drinking bowl for visiting dogs is nice, too. read more

We had such a special evening atop Mt. Helix to see CYT's production of Mary Poppins. I took all my kids and their people (ages 16 - 22) and it was quite lovely. We live on the mountain, so we took an uber to the top...then we walked home. It's only about a 1/2 mile. The show was terrific, great sound, sets, and effects...including a "flying" Mary Poppins. Classic. Thanks, CYT! read more

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One of the best parks in San Diego County. The views are incredible, the walking paths are adventurous & the events on the stage are always impressive. The only detractor, and it's a big one, is the limited parking. And I mean VERY limited. Probably six MAYBE seven parking spots. Make sure to check out the sunset! -Jay & Chels read more

Mt Helix Park - Deep in thought.. - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Absolutely beautiful place to come watch the sunset. Love it! It's secluded and at the top of Mt. Helix. This is a gorgeous spot built and dedicated in 1925. Includes an outdoor auditorium! Love it here! read more

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The view from the top of the mountain was the best I saw in san diego. My friend and I took a one day trip from Orange County and wanted to see beautiful views and beaches. Mount Helix did not disappoint. We saw several people working out in the amphitheater and it looked like a great place to workout. It was also very quiet and peaceful! I will certainly come back next time I'm in the area to look at the beautiful views read more

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This is a beautiful park to watch the sunset. I hear it's good to watch the sun rise but I don't as a rule get up early enough to come for that. Beautiful views of San Diego. If you've never been here you owe it to yourself to come. read more

Mt Helix Park - Sunset. - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Great view from the top. You can see all of San Diego from this wonderful viewpoint. There's an area for parking as well as spots along the road leading to the top. If you like sunset or sunrise photography, this is a great spot to check out! read more

Mt Helix Park - Cuddle for warmth, it's gets a little chili around sunset - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

First off thank you so much specifically to the few people that kept fighting year after year giving your time your money your knowledge and love. Thank you so much because without all of you no one could experience mount helix with it's endless Beauty. I want to give local San diegans equal respect and love. I personally do not specifically agree either way. I don't matter. Not in the locals differences in believes though our local courts. It took folks with different beliefs and different expectations plus some $ and some influence of maybe it was luck and chance idk honestly. But I did grow up in San Diego. I witnessed as a youth local medias struggle for truth transparency for us. Some lost everything . If you frequent our local businesses you know. Of you know the risk you take just to shop local. I am just like you. Your neighbor. Sharing your experiences. I love our local businesses. So I support them if I should!!! Stay faithful stay true. Support your local businesses protect our community this is ours. All of Southeast if we lose it we lose our history our struggle and our truth. I'm Mexican American. USMC veteran and an immigrant. I witnessed first hand 20 plus years here from downtowns east village out east past Skyline and Meadowbrook. Thank you to everyone who fought together against San Diego's elected officials. Without each and everyone of y'all no one today would enjoy mount Helix for it's views or it's religious struggle. Today's controversy keeps it safe. If you don't know I'll tell you. Some people that love mount Helix keep it safe. They water plants. They trim foliage for free. That's love. City workers have it easy thanks to locals who do the work for free with love!!! I wish I knew y'all's names to honor y'all's work. read more

I've been in San Diego for over a year. I can not believe I haven't been in this place earlier. I explore quite a lot around San Diego. So when I randomly found Mt Helix Park yesterday, I was so thrilled. It's a gorgeous place to walk around and sit in peace. Absolutely love this spot and will definitely go back. The sunset was fantastic to watch! read more

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This place has great city views, but the parking is extremely limited. Some people parked on the side of the mountain and others parked in the main small lot. The road was a one way. It's perfect for watching the sunset! read more

So quiet and peaceful. The only downside is there is very limited parking. If you get there early enough it's not really a problem.

Such a calm environment! I even wanted to color while relaxing in the sun. I feel it's a little maze everyone should encounter, to communicate with friends or for self pep talks. Highly recommend for breath taking views! (Work out friendly) read more

very pretty! You get a full panorama of San Diego. There's a little theater there with steps, a stage, and plastic chairs. Reminds me of the good ol girl scount camp days. There's a mini trail that loops around the landmark but it's not very long. Kind of an adventure. The pups loved it, and there were drinking fountains. Very clutch on a hot day. read more

For those of us that live up here... We appreciate the view, the cross and all this hidden gem has to offer. Thank God it's a privately owned park or else we would have yelp reviewers like some listed below actually giving their 2 cents in regards to a place they may have visited once in their lifetime. If the cross on mount helix offends you for any reason, please, do us residents all a favor and GTFO. I'm sure we will get by just fine without all the PDA, alcohol, parking issues that occur here on the regular. Now, for those of you that actually can appreciate the area and in a respectful manner, then welcome! People bring life to this area, but negativity need not be present. read more

So maybe I have a little bias to liking this place so much since my husband asked me to marry him here. Mt. Helix was one of the first spots I discovered when I moved to San Diego. I immediately fell in love with its tranquility and peacefulness. It's an easy drive up the mountain from La Mesa, once you get up there there are a couple of parking spots, but its never been an issue. When you walk around the whole top you can get 360 views of the whole area. It's so nice and really something you must see for yourself. There are little ledge stone fences along the edges wide enough to sit on and just enjoy the views. I've done picnics up here a couple of times, taken my family and everyone has just loved it. In the summer they do plays in the evenings and I've come to see Grease. They close access to the top of the mountain. You park and get picked up by a shuttle bus which takes you to the top. Maybe a little crowded but nothing bad. It was a really fun thing to do on a hot summer night. Sunsets are a beautiful site on this mountain. You have to come see it if you haven't already. read more

I can't believe I haven't reviewed Mt. Helix yet! I used to make the drive out to La Jolla for a good view on Mt. Soledad but how could I forget that there was just as good if not better view here in east county!? The view is literally 360 degrees. You can see downtown, the ocean, the mountains, and the surrounding neighborhoods. On a sunny day its stunningly beautiful. Come have a picnic, watch the sunset, or just sit and read a book and unwind. So many nooks and crannies to explore, and find a quiet spot for yourself. Gate locks promptly when the sunset, so there's no where to park if you get there too late; the whole area is no parking on the side of the road. read more

On the advice of our crazy, but genuinely sweet neighbor, the boyfriend and I made the drive up to Mt. Helix just before sunset. Our neighbor had said it was beautiful and you could see all of San Diego, but we figured he was exaggerating. He wasn't. The view is absolutely breath-taking and you really can see all of SD and its surrounding areas. There were a few other people up there enjoying the view, but no one was loud or obnoxious and it was clear we were all there for the beauty. Parking was interesting. There are signs the entire way up that say no parking along the street, but as we got closer to the top we noticed a lot of cars parked on the side, so we decided to chance it. Of course after we walked to the top, we saw the empty parking lot. The gate was closed when we finally left the park, but it opens automatically to exit. I guess as long as you get there before the entrance gate closes, you can stay inside as long as you want. Anyway, we're so glad we visited this place and I can't wait to go up there again and make out. Just kidding. Not really. read more

My girlfriend took me up Mt. Helix for a relaxing afternoon and it turned out to be just that. The full 360 view of San Diego is mesmerizing especially when considering the fact that the coast is fully visible even though Mt. Helix is so far inland. The trials around the peak are fun, but certainly not for folks that aren't fond of heights. Parking is a pain, but it's not totally impossible to find and is well worth the effort. I found the drive up and down nearly as fun as our visit to the park itself. Curvy, winding roads all the way up offering insane views. The best part: it's free! read more

So I don't know why I thought this was the right place for a hike (hence the name) but it's actually a private park in memory of Miles Stepich who passed away in 2009. Before his death he was a great supporter of this park and allowed the public to enter for free in able to see the great views at the top of Mt. Helix. Many have seen the famous rotating house at the top in which Mr. Stepich had built. Shortly after his death donations were made to have a small dirt path circling the park just like Mr. Steprich wanted for people to enjoy a scenic 360degree view. It's a nice peaceful place to relax, take pictures or have a picnic. I see a lot of couples come here acting all lovey dovey in secluded places. Parking is very limited of about 6 spaces. If you can't find parking at the top you may have to find parking at the bottom of the hill somewhere in residential. read more

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Look~! It's Downtown San Diego~! Look~! It's El Cajon~!! Look~! It's Tijuana~!! Look~! It's everywhere listed on a map of the southern portion of San Diego County. While somewhat difficult to find if you haven't been to the area before (the peak, not the mountain) the trek is worth the confusion. With limited parking at the top you find yourself coming around the corner to a large stone amphitheater facing East County. A steep walk up the paved trail or stairs finds you shadowed by a large cross seen from all over the south and east county. With views in every direction, and most likely one of the best places to watch a San Diego sunset from high, many couples, families, and sole soul seekers gather here. The hometown tour guide pointing out sights and towns below can be found in nearly every group. Children often play hide and seek (or nerf as my kids did) and build forts in the surrounding shrubbery. A trail snakes around the peak with new signage in place pointing out the sights and natures gifts that are easily found in the area. Overlooking beautiful and unique homes you can follow the freeways to any part of the South and East County to find where you lay your head. While taking a small picnic and enjoying it anywhere on the land is a great idea, a lone picnic table sits hidden just east of the parking lot that is rarely, if ever, used. Crowds gather mostly at sunset (not visible from the table) to take in the romantic view, so the park is a great place to hang out and enjoy another's company during the day. Driving off of the mountain is a much easier task than driving up. Just hang a left at the t-intersection and you will find yourself back at the 8 with an option of east or west within moments. Nothing beats free in San Diego with perfect, unobstructed views which lands Mt. Helix on one of my most visited places in San Diego and you should too list. read more

I can't believe I've lived here for a decade without knowing about this park. We always just thought the cross at the top of the hill was a very zealous homeowner, but yay it's a park! I didn't even know how beautiful the neighborhood of Mt. Helix was! It's so peaceful and plush, I think I saw Laura Ingles milking a cow as I drove up Fuerte. The parking is awful because the lot is tiny and there is almost no street parking. Of course some selfish person had taken up 2 spaces when we got there. (It takes a really special kind of selfish to do that in a driveway sized parking lot when you know people are already praying for a spot!). But as stated, the views are incredible, it's a lovely place to have a picnic and there's plenty of seating on the concrete steps. You might even feel closer to God standing under that cross if that's your thing. Big ups to the butterflies flittering about too! Nice touch on that whole nature thing. read more

Awesome panoramic view of San Diego. Sunset is the time to be here. It's enchanting seeing the city light up with twinkly lights as the sun sets on the horizon. We brought my parents along one evening and they absolutely loved it. The rock slab amphitheater here is nice to walk around too. P.S. Ladies, there are no restrooms at Mt. Helix park, so unless you want to squat in the bushes you'd better make sure you go before you get there. read more

Such a gorgeous location for photography, bird watching clearing your head, date spots, oh and lovers lanes. Lots of those... The park gates close at four or five so go up before then. Just remember, all the signs on the side of the road indicate no parking, but if you are a person who takes risks, just know the cops roll through rather frequently and I have witnessed many unpleasant window-tapping-with-flashlights. Be aware. Oh, and there is almost always open houses up on this hill, go check it out. Amazing mansions. read more

" Still a great Sight Seeing Venue " I had not been to Mount Helix Park in probably 20 years, so I drove up to see the changes they have made and to enjoy a perfect day weather wise to enjoy the terrific views from Mount Helix.They have plays up on the Mount Helix area every year, and they also have church religious meetings weekly. This visit brought back a lot of memories and gave me a chill as I entered the Park. Mount Helix is still a great place to visit. read more

I went here a few weeks ago on a random day with my dude and found that this place was much better than I had expected! The view is absolutely beautiful. There are many areas/large boulders for sitting, relaxing, and just enjoying the view all around. Parking is very limited so come on a random day when it isn't so busy. read more

Mt Helix Park - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

Never knew this place existed till today. The view here is amazing, this would be a great place to take your wife or girlfriend. read more

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The kids asked what shall we do on a Saturday.. Mt. Helix for a nice view and hot cocoa. read more

Mt Helix Park - Counting our blessings - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

Mt. Helix is such a beautiful, serene place, especially late at night. The city lights sparkle like jewels in the distance. It's gorgeous! We've wandered into the cross area/amphitheatre a few times late night and I don't think the guard cares unless you're being loud and rambunctious. You can park along the road, but just be careful walking because raccoons have been known to creep out of the bushes. read more

Maybe it was too hazy when I went? I read a review from someone who said it might be a better view than Mt Soledad so I was pumped to check this place out. It's no where near as awesome as Mt Soledad!! We couldn't even see the water (I'm sure you can see a sliver maybe if it's less hazy), but for the most part, all you see are buildings (not very exciting) and the other hills/mountains (which is nice). If you are in the area, check it out. Otherwise, go to Mt. Soledad, with a gorgeous view of the ocean. Also, it was hot as balls up there. I almost forgot! There were tons of butterflies! Loved that. read more

This is my East County Spot to go and watch the sunset. On a clear day after it rains or something you can see all the Coronado Islands, Mexico, Coronado, and pretty much all of San Diego From here. I like this vantage point. Half the fun is getting here also the windy road that goes up this mountain really fast has some really cool houses. There is this one house that is in the shape of an circle and the whole house rotates. read more

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Very peaceful place in El Cajon. I go there to have some quiet time or to enjoy lunch with a nice view. Clean and well maintained. One of my favorite spots in San Diego. Very few parking spots. read more

Mt Helix Park - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Great place for a view - or a short walk. Available parking can sometimes be challenging to find. An amphitheater implies that outdoor performances take place from time to time. The cross is a local landmark that can be seen from quite a distance - but the best views in any given direction while there are not from the cross but from the road circling the mountain and various other points along the edge rather than from the center. Worth a short visit but there's not enough here to justify staying that long. read more

Majestic place in East County, love the ampitheater and the little cross on top. On a clear day, you can pretty much see San Diego, on a not-so-clear day only east county. I always experience that sense of wonder when I can get a bird's eye view of things. A great place to go to enjoy the peace, serenity, and amazing views high atop Mt. Helix (2770 ft). There was also a wedding going on when I went there in the evening. read more

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This is a nice little private park (not public because of the giant cross). There's great views in all directions similar to what you get on Cowles Mountain except you can drive straight to the top. Unfortunately, there isn't much parking (maybe five or six spaces at the top and some limited parking on the road on the way). You can park at the fire station but that's still a bit of a walk. The park itself has a massive amphitheater (probably seats a thousand people!) and a few very short trails through the trees and brush. They hold events here but I've never been to any of them--I imagine they use shuttles to bring people in since the parking sucks. This is definitely a hidden gem. read more

Good rock climbing, great views, quiet. Can't ask for much more in a park. read more

While hard to find, A great experience! As I was driving there I ended up in residential areas multiple times. The road isn't very well defined ether. Just a tiny sign saying Mt Helix after you already pass it. The drive is worth it tho. Those fearful of heights beware. The road leading to the top is very close to the 3 foot guardrail. The top view is incredible though. You can see 360 degrees around you. Check it out! read more

Beautiful view, amazing to watch the sunrise/sunset. Can get a little crowded but overall a wonderful spot to sightsee! read more

Mt Helix Park - Sunset view! - Parks Near Me - La Mesa, California

My friends sister lives on the mountain. All I can say is, WHAT A VIEW! Highly recommended. It's a great place to sit and enjoy some coffee or read a book. read more

Meditate, Run the Stairs, or enjoy the view . . . You'll appreciate this quaint spot in La Mesa, CA

Great hiking trail! It's a good trail for beginner hikers. There aren't many trees or rest spots so keep that in mind. The trail is mainly dirt, rocks, and bushes. Dogs are allowed but they must be on leash. The view from the top is beautiful! read more