San Diego: Mount Woodson hiking trail

Hikers are greeted by a great view of Lake Poway at the beginning of the Mount Woodson trail.

We are blessed in San Diego at the moment.  It's supposed to be winter time, and here it is with 75 degree temperatures and lots of sunshine.  I really feel guilty seeing the snowstorms and cold temperatures around the rest of the country.


I took advantage of the warmer than usual weather and hiked a trail near Lake Poway in San Diego.  This trail leads to the peak of Mount Woodson.  The hike is about 3.8-3.9 miles one way, so plan to start early if you want to make it to the summit in time before the sun sets.  It took me about 5.5 hours to do the complete hike walking briskly on the way back down and also taking a break at the top to admire the scenery.  I think it might take up to 7 hours for people who walk a little more leisurely.  Please note that to gain entrance to Lake Poway, there is a $5 fee at the gate. 

The terrain isn't terribly rocky or slick, however the incline is a bit steep at some points.  A hiking stick is a great item to aid you if you have difficulty with dirt trails.  The trail is a wonderful hike though, as it starts with an awesome view of Lake Poway..  From there the trail follows the perimeter of the lake, before winding inland towards Mount Woodson.  There are plenty of different kinds of local shrubs and plants to see too.

There are signs marked along the path to you on your way. 

One of the many signs along the route.

The trail does have some narrow points, so be aware when traversing these spots as sometimes there are runners who may wish to pass by you first.  The trail is a continuous grade which is about a 4-6% incline in most spots.  Even though it is "winter" and the temperatures were only in the mid 70s, be sure to carry plenty of fluids and some high energy snacks like trail mix.  I drank a total of 8 bottles of water (16 oz. each), and 2 sports drinks that were 32 oz. each.  In the summer time, I think carrying nearly double would be wiser as there aren't too many spots for shade along the trail.

A view of San Diego about 2/3 of the way up the trail.

The summit of Mount Woodson has an odd shaped rock, it looks like a Pringles potato chip and extends over a cliff.  Some thrill seekers may revel in the fact that the rock will support the weight of quite a few people.  I saw about 8 people climb the rock to have their photo taken together.

The "potato chip" shaped rock at the summit of Mount Woodson.

From the top of Mount Woodson, you will have a spectacular view while you rest and recharge.

A view from the summit of Mount Woodson.

This is some more scenery.  So peaceful!

I would rate this trail as an intermediate course.  It is quite long for the casual hiker, and without many spots for shade, it can be dangerous for those who go unprepared.  Don't forget to buddy up whenever you attempt a hike!  The view at the top is well worth the effort to get there.  Cheers until the next time! 

Just hiking and having some fun!

My dachshund making a silly face.  She loved the hike! You can see videos of her here:  Mini Dachshund