Iron Mountain Trail | Poway, CA

There are many hiking trails to choose from in San Diego, but many local residents find themselves completing the Iron Mountain summit trail over and over again — and for good reason! This moderately intense 5-mile hike is not only a good workout, but also easily accessible — drawing local residents and tourists alike. Quite literally and figuratively, Iron Mountain rocks and is a hike everyone should check out at least once.

Iron Mountain is the southernmost peak in a small cluster of mountains, dividing the city of Poway from the semi-rural community of Ramona. The panoramic views from the top are incredible, providing sweeping views of Poway, Ramona, and Lake Hodges in the distance.

There are a few ways to get to the Iron Mountain summit, however I’ll cover the most popular route that begins at the main staging area at the intersection of Highway 67 and Poway Road. There is a small parking lot that usually fills during afternoon hours on the weekend, or you can also park along the street. Once you find parking, proceed from the main staging area past a large metal sign that reads “Iron Mountain”. You will cross a bridge over a dried creek and follow the left-bending trail through a corridor of trees. This is the most shade you will get throughout the entirety of the hike so take the opportunity to apply sunscreen or grab a quick sip of water.

Once you pass the row of oak trees, the trail will first take you in a relatively straight line to the base of the mountain until it begins to snake up and around Iron Mountain. You will encounter the spur trail to the right, which is a short loop, so be sure to follow the main trail. You’ll see spicy chaparral, the very little remaining vegetation around here wiped out by the Cedar Fire. Aside from spicy chaparral you will also encounter a variety of granite boulders along the trail, some suitable for climbing if you wish. There are quite a few impressively sized boulders, including one that sits near the middle of the trail as you get closer to the summit.

After reaching the low saddle, the trail bends to the right where you will encounter a series of switchbacks up Iron Mountain’s east flank. The switchbacks up hill aren’t too difficult, and the elevation gain is gradual.

You may be surprised to see a sign for a helipad. This helicopter landing spot was built specifically for hikers that do not come prepared and people need to get airlifted out regularly. Aside from a whopping medical bill, you don’t want to be in the position where you have to take a helicopter ride due to a serious medical emergency. This particular region in general is warmer than other parts of San Diego and in the summer temperatures can sky rocket. As with any hike, be sure to bring plenty of water. In fact, double your water intake. Drink water every twenty minutes or so even if you’re not feeling thirsty.

After you’ve passed the helicopter landing platform, you’ll continue following the switchbacks until you reach the Iron Mountain summit: complete with two park benches and panoramic views of San Diego county. Scramble the rocks to take pictures of all different viewpoints at the top and when you’ve had your fix of taking enviable photos, continue back down the trail the same way you came up.

The beauty of the Iron Mountain trail is the ease of navigation and clear cut path, which makes it nearly impossible to get lost. There is only one major junction and the junction is clearly marked. There are multiple places along the trail with well-marked signs to help guide you along your journey uphill. You will also likely encounter other hikers along the way to follow or simply high five.

Please note that Iron Mountain is not the place to seek solace. In fact, it is probably one of the most popular trails in San Diego county aside from Cowles Mountain. However, this is a great destination for casual hikers or even those who have only hiked a few times. The staging area can get very crowded on weekends. To avoid this and scorching temperatures, plan your hike on a weekday or early in the morning on weekends. Due to the throngs of people who eagerly hike this trail each day, I’d also recommend Iron Mountain for solo hikers.

Overall, Iron Mountain is a must, even if you only try it once.

For a detailed write up on the alternate trail, the Ellie Lane Loop Trail, click here .

Trailhead entrance

Iron Mountain Tips

Tip 1: Parking is free in a dirt lot. If the lot is full, park alongside the road near the staging area.

Tip 2: There are restrooms in the staging area if needed.

Tip 3: Wear your hiking shoes as many parts of the trail consist of loose dirt and rocks.

Tip 4: For most of the trail you will be exposed to the sun. Wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn.

Tip 5: Plan about 2 hours to complete this hike. Some trail runners say they’ve been able to finish it in about 60-70 minutes.

Tip 6: Dogs are permitted on this trail, however, be sure to bring plenty of water for them as well if you’ll be bringing your furry friend along.