Despite its affluent, suburban setting, Poway has no shortage of enjoyable trails to hike. From the Lake Poway Loop Trail to the increasingly popular trek up Mount Woodson, there are a number of hikes for all levels of fitness. I first heard of the Twin Peaks Trail through word of mouth. Its short distance, convenient location, and ease of access prompted me to check it out almost immediately after hearing about it. Luckily, this peak did not leave me disappointed.
The trailhead for Twin Peaks picks up in several different locations, but the easiest to access in my opinion is Silverset Park . After parking at Silverset Park, walk to the entrance of the park, past the restrooms and towards the park’s sign. Follow the dirt fire road, marked as the “Twin Peaks Trail” as it gently ascends.
You’ll reach the first junction within 0.1 miles, marked by a wooden bench. Follow the trail to the left. If you continue right, you will end up in the surrounding suburban neighborhood and will need to retrace your steps. After following the trail to the left at the junction, you’ll reach another junction within another 0.05 miles. Turn right to stay on the right path.
At .17 miles, you’ll reach yet another junction. You can follow either path, however I followed the narrow path to the left which took me the majority of the way up to Twin Peaks. The trail will progressively get more difficult and you’ll continue to gain the majority of your elevation over the next mile. There are several spur trails along the way that can sometimes get confusing. According to locals I met along the way who live in the near vicinity and hike this trail often, most of the trails that lead uphill will get you to the summit.
A good indication that you’re on the right path will be that the trail begins to transform from loose gravel, to rocky terrain. The trail will also get noticeably more difficult, climbing large rocks, and slowly making your way up to Twin Peaks. On a somewhat sunny day, we ran into a large rattlesnake on the main path near the summit. I’d recommend keeping your eyes open and stay alert on this hike. Locals told me it isn’t uncommon to see 1-2 rattlesnakes on the Twin Peaks Trail.
Just before reaching the summit, there’s a nice, flat lookout spot. Here, you can take a break and admire the breathtaking views of Poway below. From here, you have just about 0.2 miles further to climb until you reach the first peak. The first peak has a few different larger rocks to sit on to take in the sweeping vistas. If you head down just a bit further from the first peak, there is a faint path that will take you to the much smaller and less impressive second peak.
Unfortunately, I didn’t make it to the second peak because another large rattlesnake was taking up the trail. I opted to turn back and retrace my steps down to Silverset Park. A word of advice on your return: follow the trails to the left. There are a few that head to the right but will plop you out in Poway suburbia instead of Silverset Park.
Twin Peaks Trail Tips
Tip #1: Stay on the trail. In the spring, I saw several rattlesnakes off the trail. Keep your eyes open and follow the worn path.
Tip #2: Bring sun protection and plenty of water. The entirety of this trail is unshaded.
Tip #3: Be mindful of residents. This hike is located in the middle of the suburbs. Be respectful of the surrounding residents.
Tip #4: Pack out what you bring in. Restroom facilities/garbage are located at Silverset Park.
Tip #5: The trail is not well-marked. Try to follow the paths that lead uphill.
Driving Directions
From downtown San Diego, take CA-163N for 11.2 miles and then merge onto I-15N. Take I-15 N to exit 19 for California 56 Jct/Ted Williams Pkwy. Turn right onto Ted Williams Pkwy. Drive 2.5 miles and then turn right onto Twin Peaks Rd. Drive 0.4 miles and turn left onto Silverset St. Follow Silverset St until you reach Silverset Park. Park anywhere in the parking lot.
Elevation Gain: 700 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 2.4 miles
Trailhead Address: 14795 Silverset St, Poway, CA 92064
