Potato Chip Rock — Attraction in Poway

Was quite a tiring hike but the view is literally breath-taking as you are actually above the clouds when you are on the top of Mt. Woodson, which is where the famed Potato Chip Rock is located. There could be a line to get on the rock, sometimes five minutes, and it can be 2 and 1/2 hours. You have to climb on top of a 10 foot boulder with a 30 foot deep crevice in the middle of the boulder. I would hike it, but if 2 - 5 hour, mostly straight-up hikes aren’t for you, then it wouldn’t hurt to skip the hike.

Definitely come during the fall and spring, or maybe the winter, but NOT summer. It is a crowded inferno during the summer months. Bring a bottle of water (multiple is a very good idea).

Get to the Mt. Woodson Trailhead by going to the Lake Power Park. Park in the lot, then go to the start of the lake’s loop trail. I recommend going to the right, around the lake as it is 0.5 miles on the right side, and 2.0 miles on the left side. After going around the lake, there is a small trailhead that has a trail that goes fairly steep up. It should say “Mt. Woodson Summit Trail”. One on it, stay on the trail to get to the top. There are a few forks in the trail, ALWAYS go right to get to Potato Chip Rock. Once there, there is normally a line by 9:45, where you can CAREFULLY get your picture. The actual Potato Chip Rock hangs off the edge of a 75 foot high cliff. There are no stairs to get on or off it though, the people who are also there a to get photos were really nice to help me to get on and off.

Below are some photos I took of the trail to Potato Chip Rock, and...

Nice payoff at the summit. Bit may be crowded at the top upon your arrival. The hike can be on the advance physical exertion side if you attack the trash hard. For those of medium to slight physical stamina. Start early as possible. Take at least (4) 16oz water bottle (per person). Dress appropriate. A good pair of tennis/running shoes should be fine. There is some loose grave/rocks/dirt. Slow and steady will get you to the top. On your way back down, you will be sweaty. Which means you most likely will be chilly. If you have circulation problems, take some gloves with you. Gloves will also help if you slip on your decent back to the parking lot. Your legs will be fatigued. So the return trip may be a little easier, but still be careful with your foot placement. Portapotty are only at the lower beginning part of the hike. So once you start the main uphill hike, you will have to turn for a restroom. Main points: Water: take at least 1 more bottle than you think you will need Foot wea: sneakers ok, hiking boots better. (uneven ground, pointy rocks, ankle support ) Clothing: check weather, it will be different at the top. You will sweaty at the top Patience: it most likely will be crowded, wait your turn, take your photos, move out of the way so everyone can enjoy. Conclusion: tough hike,...

A popular destination; primary goal up the Woodson Trail from CA-67. It’s an easy climb up a paved path, “difficulty” is more to do with individual fitness.

It’s a 2-mile uphill climb to a gain of 2,000 ft elevation. It takes 50-65 min. The return downhill walk takes 25-35 min.

It’s an enjoyable hike. Great views of Ramona Valley. Lovely vegetation as well.

Great appreciation of the rocky hills, rocks protruding to the sky as if they wish to fly out from the ground. Some of the rocks have “carved-in” shallow crevices so ornately arranged that they could not be vandalisms. They look more like those created by sea urchins in rocky tide pools. Could these “carved” rocks have been strewn from the sea from a tectonic past?

Just before the destination, look for the Tepee Rock, nature’s creation!

At destination, enjoy the victory climb on Potato Chip Rock. But, take time to appreciate the vista from it.

TIP: Wear sensible shoes, padded orthotic support. Best to hike at a 60-deg weather. Plan early as the roadside parking on CA-67 can be tight, weekdays are better to...