Mount Woodson is one of the best known hikes in San Diego County thanks to the countless creative photos that have been posted across the Internet of hikers posing on Potato Chip Rock. Potato Chip Rock gets its name from the thin slice of rock at the top of the summit that appears as though it could break off at any moment. This seven-mile hike is not for the faint of heart, however it is worth checking out if you’re up to the challenge.
Mount Woodson is strenuous, though you may not realize it by the throngs of people that flock to this popular hike each weekend. In just 3.3 miles the trail gains about 2,000 feet in elevation, a large gain for a short distance. The trail has few flat portions, and they are short. It is mostly an uphill jaunt from the start of the fire road, gaining 700 feet in elevation in just the initial part of the hike. The remaining majority of the climb occurs after gaining a saddle, where the trail mazes upward through a sea of boulders.
The trail starts at the Lake Poway parking lot. This is not to be confused with a separate trail specifically around the lake, a large park and fishing/boat rentals. The Mount Woodson trailhead actually begins along the west shore of the lake, moving south along a use trail that connects to a fire road, near the bathrooms. As you ascend uphill you will have the opportunity to take in all the beauty of the lake for about the first mile. Once you meander around Lake Poway and meet a junction with the trail to the summit, this is where the grueling jaunt uphill begins. The ascent up is steep, with a good amount of elevation gain and does not level out much. Luckily there are plenty of unique rock formations along the trail to help distract you.
The trail will eventually come to junction, however take the clearly marked Mount Woodson summit trail. At this junction, the fire road will come to an end, and you will wind uphill through a maze of boulders. Some of the boulders are large enough to garner attention of rock climbers, who you may see attempting to crawl up the sides.
At the next saddle you will encounter a junction heading in three separate directions. One direction leads to a stunning viewpoint worth checking out. The second trail leads to the Fry-Koegel Trail, which I have not explored yet. Follow the trail that leads to the Mount Woodson summit. Here you will get a short break as the trail levels out. Enjoy because after this comes the final, grueling uphill stretch to Potato Chip Rock.
Soon the communication towers will come into view, a welcome warning that the hike to the top is almost over. Once you reach the top of the mountain, continue forward as Potato Chip rock is still about a half-mile walk. The actual summit is noticeable due to the antennas jutting out from the ground. When you are about a quarter-mile away from the summit you will see Potato Chip Rock in the distance, along with masses of people eager to take their pictures on it. Many fear the rock will crumble the moment they step foot on the fragile-looking natural feature, and one day it probably will. Proceed forward on your own accord.
It requires some scrambling to get to the top of the rock and appears to look dangerous, however it is not too scary at all until you get to the very end. Luckily, the majestic views of San Diego County help curb any fear. There is typically a wait to take your picture on Potato Chip Rock so be prepared to wait amongst the other eager hiking enthusiasts.
Once you’ve taken your pictures with Potato Chip Rock at the top of Mount Woodson, proceed back downhill the same way you came up.
Mount Woodson Trail Tips
Tip 1: This trail gets scorching hot from late spring through early fall. If you will be hiking during this timeframe, I suggest going in the early morning or late afternoon. Bring plenty of water and a sports drink to stay hydrated.
Tip 2: Rattlesnakes are commonly seen on this trail. If you encounter a rattlesnake, maintain a respectable distance and wait for them to move away from you.
Tip 3: There is a $5 fee to park in the Lake Poway parking lot. Cash or credit card is accepted.
Tip 4: Use the restroom before you tart the trail. There are no bathrooms on the trail or at the top.
Tip 5: Plan at least 4 hours for this hike. It could be less if you don’t take breaks or more if you wait in line to get your picture taken on Potato Chip Rock.
Tip 6: Exercise generosity. You will need to coordinate who will take your photos so ask the group before you to take their photos in exchange for them taking your photo.
Tip 7: Where hiking shoes rather than running shoes. I’ve seen numerous people slide down the trail and one girl twist her ankle wearing the wrong shoes.
Tip 8: Dogs are permitted on this hike, although I would not recommend taking them during warmer months.
Driving Directions: From Interstate 15N, exit Rancho Bernardo Road. Turn right to continue on Rancho Bernardo Road 4 miles. Turn left at Lake Poway Road and follow to the park entrance gate.
Difficulty: Strenuous
Total Distance: 6.6 Miles
Trailhead address: 14644 Lake Poway Road, Poway, CA 92074
