Mount Woodson Trailhead — Attraction in Poway

Many moons ago I fancied myself a rock climber, but had never been outside the gym. A friend took me to Woodson to top rope and be introduced to real rock climbing versus training indoors. I threw on some Adidas casuals which gave me zero tracking off the trail and boy was I introduced to an approach. We meander to the top in roughly an hour due to my smokers lungs and me resting all the time. A couple switches from the bottom we boulder around and a couple switches from the top we set up topropes. Being that it was my first time outdoors I hell of a time finding my way up. I had the power, but not the endurance or the fortitude to figure it out. The only climb I was able to send was Cornflake a 5.7 lieback, but not after falling a time or two. I definteily learned the gym grades mean nothing outside as I continually failed on all the 5.8's and 5.9's. The things I remember about that time was this approach is steep, I definitely need more than casual shoes just getting to these rocks, I need more than 2 small water bottles and this is the best time I've ever had.

Over the years I came to love climbing here, it was close to my Poway gym where I worked, the approach was manageable and due to the short climbs only a minimal rack was needed outside of bouldering with crash pads. My favorite experience was climbing under a full moon. Like climbing a route you've done before, but blind folded. Memory and fluidity reign.

From a purely hiking trail perspective it's pave so it's a thing of beauty. It's got some shade, another plus. But those cell towers counter the view and that potato chip rock is just a novelty. It's a trail through the outdoors, but not actually being outdoors. You're not 1 with nature simply coming here and getting a workout and snapping some picks. Embrace nature and it's beauty, take your time with it. I enjoy Torrey Pines and Cowles a little more, but neither are really impressive to actually backpacking on established trails in prestigious National and State parks.

It can be a challenging approach due to the steepness at first and it doesn't really let up, but if you've got the will you'll get to those towers. The big tourist spot is Potato chip rock which I never went to until recently, not that impressive considering I've free solo'd hundred foot rocks, slept on big walls and had to self-rescue myself. Not a lot impresses me in the presence of rocks. It's busy on weekends with hikers, actually it's mostly hikers.

There are no bathrooms, some shade (a lot by comparison to Iron Mountain), but it's paved, parking can be bad, but the view from the top is really nice. It's something anyone who doesn't quite like the outdoors, but likes to hike should do. That and Cowles.

One day when I've done all I want in cycling as far as sprint and power and I turn my attention to leaning out for climbing I plan to ride my road bike up this. Gotta be an average of 15% with peaks above 22% is my guess. The descent would not be as fun since it has almost too many switchbacks. I like to climb if the descent gets me speed not worn out brake...

So.... I finished a very long thru-hike a few months ago, but have been lounging around letting my legs and my will grow weak and flabby. I knew I had to get back out there and start hiking again, so, true to form for me: I slept in, didn't prepare and got lost all before I even arrived at Poway lake, the starting point for this trail.

I chose the Mount Woodsen trail, because as someone who's lived in SD as long as I have, it's almost shameful to admit I had not completed it. Many San Diegans believe to this to be the area's most popular day hike, and based on the crowds I wouldn't disagree.

For starters parking is good. I didn't pay any fee and wasn't ticketed. Perhaps because it's November? I hit the trail at 11am, admittedly a little later than I wanted. Thankfully the weather was clear and crisp, and the temperature stayed nice and cool. The distance from the parking lot to the peak and back is just under 8 miles. You will reach potato chip rock just before the peak, so rest easy that once you've made it there you're home free.

I describe this trail as moderately difficult. If you're not used to having over 1000 foot ascensions come all at once, take it slow or avail yourself to one of San Diego's easier trails. That being said ANYONE can complete the trail if they just take it easy when needed. Bring at least a few bottles of water and a snack, you should reward youerself at the peak. There are plenty of large boulders to duck behind for a few minutes of shade if you need it.

This trail boasts some incredible views but even more incredible boulders. I'd venture that it has the most interesting megalithic stones of any hike in the region.

Happy...

I have to say, this hike was pretty awesome from the Hwy 67 turnout. If you're short on time, this is the way to go. I've read from the reviews the front way will take you 3 hours. Most people will tell you it will take 45 minutes going this way but if you were like us who likes to take pictures along the way an hour is more realistic getting to the top.

To get to the potato chip rock:

Off 67, park close to fire station that's on the southbound of the road. Look for a marker that says hiking trail Wear comfy shoes, you will walk on paved road but there is elevation change It gets a little easier when you get closer to the top Hang a right when you see those air traffic towers You will be going downwards on a trail that's 5 minutes to the potato chip.

Oh, and you will have to wait in line probably at least 30 minutes You will have to jump from the top boulder to the rock ~ 3 feet Once you're done, you will have to climb down on a side of a boulder Traverse down the same way, it will be about 30 minutes downwards.

Note: Make friends, someone will have to take a picture for you if you're in a group. Can be hot, but do take at least 1 bottled water with you. Not difficult, I would say maybe 6 on a 10 scale for athletes. Total time, including pictures ~2 hours.

I hope this rock won't break soon. Just don't keep jumping up and...