The park consists mostly of rugged canyons and hills, with both natural and developed recreation areas, including many beautiful flowers. It is the seventh-largest open space urban park in the United States, consisting of nearly . The highest point is Cowles Mountain, which is also the highest point in the city of San Diego. The San Diego River flows through the park. A one-way access road goes through the park, allowing hikers, bikers and pedestrians on one side and cars on the other. The park is open every day of the year.