Stonewall Peak — Attraction in San Diego Country Estates

I hiked the Stonewall Peak trail every year when I was a Scout--we had a Scout camp in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park--and I've hiked it on other occasions as well. Honestly, I've been to all fifty states and thirty-nine other countries, and this remains possibly my all-time favorite hike. It's a great trail, moving up a steep slope with very well-crafted switchbacks that keep the incline very small. The view from the top is great. If you're twelve years old and your camp staff tells ghost stories at the summit and you hike back down in the dark, it's pretty spooky--but under any other circumstances a night descent is very pleasant. The peak is one of my very favorite places on the planet, and the trail is the only way to get there...since I think the State Park would frown on folks fast roping from a helicopter...

It's a pretty easy hike and shouldn't take more than 90 minutes to reach the top. There is a lot of switchbacks so it will feel a little tedious getting to the top but it is definitely worth the view. There is a got 360 view with no obstructions around and you won't regret going up there. You can bring just about any size dog there because the trail isn't too narrow and there isn't a lot of gaps. Pets and children are suitable for this hike so don't hesitate...

Excellent Trail. It was our first hike of 2017 and it was a perfect day. The trail starts inclining right away, but don't give up. The view from the top is worth the hike I promise!!! The trails are well marked and are mostly switchbacks that keep you mostly shady and cool. This is a pretty busy trail so be prepared for lots of company as you hike up and down and the top viewing spot is not very big so you might have to wait to get a selfie...