Dec 31, 2024, marked the 50th anniversary of Cowles Mountain at Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP).

Its purchase and preservation in 1974 was a pivotal moment in the park’s history, and was the result of community members and local leaders uniting to save Cowles Mountain from imminent development. Their efforts secured the land for public use, laying the foundation for Mission Trails, now comprised of more than 8,000 acres and one of the largest urban parks in the country. The park welcomes more than two million visitors annually.

Following the acquisition of Cowles Mountain, in 1976, a Master Development Plan for Mission Trails Regional Park was created, ensuring the park would serve the community’s recreational, educational, and cultural needs while preserving its natural beauty. In 1979, the park was named “Mission Trails Regional Park” after a community-wide contest.

Since its founding in 1988, the nonprofit Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation has partnered with the City of San Diego to preserve, protect, and improve Mission Trails, providing consistent financial support through contributions from the community and grant support.

“We at the nonprofit Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation are proud to have supported the park for more than 35 years, ensuring that Mission Trails can be preserved and protected, today and for future generations,” shared Jennifer Morrissey, executive director of the MTRP Foundation. “It is thanks to support from the community that we are able to take on major initiatives at MTRP, and as we mark the anniversary of the purchase of Cowles Mountain, we are actively acquiring parcels to expand the park.”

“The City of San Diego has proudly stewarded Cowles Mountain for over 50 years,” said Andy Field, director of the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department. “Our team ensures this cherished resource remains available for visitors to enjoy nature, exercise, and stunning views, and we look forward to caring for it for many more years.”

“Cowles Mountain symbolizes our City’s commitment to preserving natural beauty and outdoor spaces,” said District 7 Councilmember Raul Campillo, chair of the Mission Trails Regional Park Task Force. “The 50th anniversary is a celebration of those who protected this landmark, and a call to action. We must continue to grow and safeguard this treasure for future generations to enjoy.”

In the coming months, the MTRP Foundation will offer educational programming and events related to Cowles Mountain’s milestone anniversary.

For information, the public is encouraged should sign up for the park’s email alerts at mtrp.org.

Tax-deductible donations to benefit the park, including Cowles Mountain, can be made to the MTRP Foundation through the park’s website: mtrp.org.

Photo credit: Gerry Tietje