Iron Mountain Trailhead — Attraction in Poway

IRON MOUNTAIN-HIKERS WANTED The entire trail is wondrous with  panoramic vistas of rolling hills,  distant mountains, and boulder formations.  One of the highlights of the hike was the tree arch entry that greets you with blessings for a good hike. And that's about all the shade you will get :).

AMENITIES The portopotties are a sanitary mayhem and need to be closed for hazmat. The stench reaches the parking lot. Parking & trail are free.

IT'S THIS MOUNTAIN SAFE? On a scale 1-5 where 5 is the safest: 5 From sunrise to sunset you will see people. You will likely cross paths with someone every 15 minutes. No high cliffs or edges. Safe trails. Perfect trail for those wanting to explore solo hikes. While that is said, don't underestimate your own preparation.

HOW FIT DO YOU HAVE TO BE FOR THIS HIKE? If you do cardio at least 4 hours weekly, you can manage this hike. But I also saw:

A woman with flip flops A man carrying two 3 gallon jugs filled with water All age ranges and weight classes A first timer hiker and the list goes on.

WHAT WAS YOUR OVERALL EXPERIENCE? I experienced the hike to be fun and interesting with the different terrain, views, switchbacks and boulders. If you can step up on a curb or do lunges then you can step on, over, or to the side of the boulders. With that being said, there are walking crevasses next to the boulders on the trail.

I heard the hike was hard and because of my success on Saturday. I thought it was a fluke, so I went back the following next day. And it was just as enjoyable.

Overall, this 5.8 mile hike offered a mix of natural beauty, conditioning, and satisfaction. It's a great way to connect with friends, groups, nature and obviously movement. I highly recommend Iron Mountain instead of Cowles mountain.

HIGHLIGHTS Well maintained and clearly marked Perfect for new solo hikers No dog or human feces on trail

NEED TO KNOW Can be done with/out trekking poles. I take mine because dogs were not leashed, although required San Diego temps can still reach the 80's in October.

"A mustard seed of faith can move mountains. Have a mountainous faith to move every obstacle in your...

Moderate level hiking trail w 360 view at top. 2 parking lots MAIN LOT/PARKNRIDE located at 67/Poway Poad IRON MTN ACCESS LOT located at Ellie Ln. (North 67) ... 2 Bathrooms available 24/7... NO PLUMBING... NO RUNNING WATER... And no power outlets for electricity of any kind ... Spoil yourself with some healthy activity. Iron Mountain includes Exercise, Potential human interation, and/or Communication with yourself and others. FREE .... Remember : *Bring plenty of water. *Leash laws apply *The ground gets scorching hot for pet paws. (hike at an appropriate time for thier consideration, please) *Dogs'#2bags are provided at trail entrances. _(Owners/PetParents) Please pick up after your pet... _(NoN Pet Owners) Mind your OWN steps... Leave poopoo talk for home if you find a landmine underfoot... YOU'RE in the ANIMALS' HOUSES... They dont put the seat down for guests... Coyotes obviously do their doodoos' too... without owners following with a doggie bag... If you want to pick up rabdom poo/scat along the trail... go ahead... My shoe thanks those who do pick up...

It is 26.6 miles from the balboa hospital in downtown San Diego with a drive time of about 35 minutes.

The weather was SUNNY and temperature ranged between 44 degrees when i started at 7am and reached 78 degrees when i got to the top at 9am.

The Summit Trail is 6.4 miles out and back hike located near Poway, CA that features beautiful flowers and is a moderate challenge with many switchbacks. The elevation is 1184 feet.  You might want to pack snacks that you can enjoy at the top! There are 2 benches at the top and a guided sight to view every other peak and in every direction.

The bathroom is located at the base of the trail so use it while you're at the parking lot. Hiking poles are suggested and it can get rocky but not too steep. There is a fair amount of shade until you get close to the top.

I preferred Iron Mountain over Potato Chip Rock as this wasn't so crowded and gave a better view. This also has more shade than Cowles and Black...