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    Lake Poway Trail

    4.5 (64 reviews)

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    Ed T.

    This review is for the Blue Sky Canyon Trail (AllTrails) which was an additional 1.4 miles that includes the ~2.8 miles around Lake Poway. Total round trip was ~5.4 miles and took around 2.5 hours. Free parking at the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve. Plenty of inclines as you get closer to the lake and nice views of Lake Poway!

    Jasmine N.

    Easy trail which loops around the lake. Walked to the right, past a lot of people fishing to a fork. The one that goes up takes you on the 2.9mi loop. There is some elevation. Everyone I walked by in the trail had a mask on. The water is really clean. Dog friendly too.

    Trail signs
    Emmett T.

    This was the first time I had actually hiked around the entire perimeter of Lake Poway. On previous visits, it was halfway around and then take the path upward to Mount Woodson for a photo opportunity at Potato Chip Rock. One other time, I stayed above the lake and headed northeast towards the dam at Lake Ramona. My starting point was the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve trailhead on Espola Rd. There's plenty of parking in that lot. It's also free unlike parking on-site at the Lake Poway Recreational Office which charges a $10 fee for non-Poway residents on weekends. The trail starts off quite flat as you head east for about a mile. At that point, you can continue eastward to Lake Ramona or turn right and head south towards Lake Poway. The trail then allows you to go clockwise or counterclockwise around the lake. Either choice requires climbing a few switchbacks with some moderate slope. The ascent was easily the hardest part of the trek. I decided to go counterclockwise so that I would approach the recreational office first. One can buy permits to go fishing at the edge of the lake. I saw a few anglers doing that during my mid-afternoon weekday hike. What I really enjoyed about going around this lake was that the terrain was not flat ala Lake Miramar or Lake Murray. There were some gradual inclines and declines throughout the circumnavigation. I saw many leashed dogs and a few mountain bikers on the trail. Shaded areas popped up at numerous spots. There were also picnic tables and porta-johns at several locations for breaks. By the time I had completed a loop around the lake, the traveled distance was about four miles. The entire length from start to finish was roughly 5.3 miles and took well under two hours to complete. For an easy to moderate hike, I rated the Lake Poway Trail four stars.

    Mount Wilson hike to potato chip rock - dog friendly too!
    Kimmy T.

    Came here with a friend and my pup one Saturday morning in January. I didn't realize there would be a fee to get to the trailhead but it's placed within a city park, so I get it. That said, a of January 2022, be aware there is $10 entry fee per car - I paid cash but I believe you could pay with card as well. You could avoid this by using the street parking in the neighborhood across the traffic light from the park entrance but this would add at least half a mile to your hike. My advice is to check it all out first. My friend and I met in the neighborhood, parked one car there and took the other car in - I recommend this hybrid approach. :) Once inside, the trail is marked. It starts at the lake and is across from the baseball diamond. When we did it, it was about 7.5mile to Potato chip rock and back - there is a fair amount of climb (my apple watch said about 1000ft over 3 miles) but once you're up there, its all back down hill from there. :) There are lots of places to stop, sit on rocks, picnic, etc. Its very dog friendly and highly trafficked (even in January) so we felt very safe. I definitely recommend bringing lots of water and your own poop bags if you do bring your dog (there are none available on the trail). The potato chip rock part is the top of the mountain and has lots of people taking photos, resting, etc - and I'm pretty sure this was not the busiest day - so I recommend going very early if its summer! If we had time, we would have loved hanging out at the lake after, maybe picnic, etc. I would go back for that all day type of event for sure - makes paying for parking worth it. :)

    Lake poway
    Yanin G.

    Great place to enjoy the outdoors! They have two different parking lots . The main parking lot I believe has a small parking fee of $10 and the blue skyy parking lot is free( but you will have to walk about 2 miles ) in order to get to lake poway . The main trail leads to multiple trails . & depending the day and hour you choose to go, it can get packed and not everyone wears a mask . I personally did the back way trail that lead to lake poway . It's a great little hike with restrooms available and picnic tables . I suggest you wear some comfortable shoes because you will be going up hills and through rocks . Be alert at all times , snakes and animals can pop out . Also take some water and a snack . Don't forget your sunscreen and bug spray . Overall I personally loved the view , I have nothing bad to say about this trail .. Definitely a place I would visit again . Nothing to hard nor to easy . So if you love the outdoors and you are you for a challenge with a beautiful view this is a must . Stay safe. .

    Marcus F.

    Lake Poway Loop Trail is one of my new favorite trails. You get a bit of everything but not too much of it. This is a perfect "bridge" between casual flat trails and the more strenuous mountains in San Diego. It's also a good proving ground if you're wanting to see how your family and kids can handle hills and some steep climbs. The loop trail is well maintained with several chem-cans and benched along the way. Better to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the sun beating down on you. Great views all along the way. - Tip To avoid the Poway Park Fee ( and add some more hiking), start your hike from the blue sky ecological reserve. Parking is free, and you'll get a few more miles under your hiking boots. The total mileage from Blue Sky to the Lake Poway Trail, to walk the loop, and hike back was 6 miles. If you start directly at the Poway park, you're only looking at about 3.. - Not the nicest people on the trail. Getting a smile, hello, or nod from fellow hikers is hard to come here.. About 50%...Most trails are at 80% or higher.

    Linda K.

    I am lucky enough to live close to Lake Poway, and it has become our go-to Sat morning hike spot. Well-maintained trails, rarely crowded although not so quiet that one feels completely alone (for better or worse!). Benches and shade structures along the way for a break if desired. Not a flat hike at all- quite hilly with many switchbacks so be prepared. Definitely carry water for yourself and dog(s). Love the turkey vultures, the ducks, the occasional goose or egret. Just so peaceful and beautiful.

    Alex G.

    Did you know if you run this trail at sunset you get a free protein shot?? Read on for details! This is by far my favorite running trail! It's technical, there are downhill bits that are fun but not dangerous where you can feel like you're flying... twisty bits... nice views... not crowded (BUT avoid weekends! This place is a tourist attraction because of potato chip rock, which is accessible from this trail). If you navigate the inner loop it's about 4.2 km (2.61 miles). So, not quite a 5k. BUT! Elevation change is 135 m (443 feet). In a couple places it's super steep and will have you cursing the jerk who wrote that review on Yelp that fooled you into trying to run the trail... so, fair warning, this trail is probably only going to be fun for you to run if you're a stubborn, masochistic, risk-embracing trail runner. The trail, from a running perspective, is one of the more technical I have run. There's a lot of places where you're looking down almost continuously because of irregular terrain, steep declines, twists and turns, and elevation change. That said, most of it is actually smooth and relaxing! The technical parts are hard, but probably only 20% of the trail qualifies as technical. If you slow down to a jog or walk in those places (and maybe on the steep inclines too), the whole thing becomes totally doable even for intermediate level runners / joggers by the way - in case you're worried! The views really are beautiful. About 60% of the path is directly around the lake. The remainder is on the other side of the dam, and there's no real view to speak of in that part unfortunately. But still, the majority of this trail is very pretty. The path here isn't super clearly marked. There's a number of intersections where you can deduce the right direction, but it's not always explicitly marked. A slight issue. Just pay attention and think about where the lake / parking lot is. Parking is free if you're a resident of Poway and bring proof of residency. They are liberal about accepting various mail that may be addressed to you (I used mail from my employer, because I just moved here and my license hasn't been updated yet). There are, surprisingly, portapotties spread throughout the trail. I haven't used them, but just so you know... The only thing that you really need to be aware of is that around dusk, the bugs come out. I've run this trail four times now, and every time I do it in the late afternoon when it's cooling down, I always end eating a few bugs. There really can be quite a few... yoiks! But hey, free protein shot... right? :-p

    About 1/2 through the trail, started opposite of the dam side
    Steven G.

    The Lake Poway trail itself is about 2.7 miles and is anything but easy. It's very approachable, but if you do the full trail, either way, there will be at least 1/2 mile of cardio involved, as there is a steep ascent. Good walking shoes are a must, as there are some downhills that will cause a fall if your footwear is not up to snuff. There is a plethora of wildlife on this trail, squirrels, insects, lizards, hummingbirds, hawks, AND rattlesnakes, so keep your eyes and ears open. The vistas are truly amazing, and this is a great way to get exercise. If you keep a good pace, the trail loop takes about 75 minutes. Bring PLENTY of water, as there is none available on the trail itself.

    Kirsten D.

    This review is for the actual "Lake Poway Trail", not Mt. Woodson, Potato Chip Rock, etc. It's a 2.7 mile trail around Lake Poway. I would say that it's not for beginners. I believe the hiking trails call it intermediate. Friends told me it was a beginner trail, so the first time I out I was pretty sure I was going to have a heart attack...lol. But I've been doing it several times a week for 2 months and it's gotten much easier. You can head either direction and both ways have some fairly steady, steep uphill switchbacks. But there is also quite a bit of semi-flat areas as well. You get plenty of time on these so you can catch your breath (if you're a beginner.) I really enjoy this place. Parking is free during the week. All the people I've encountered have been very friendly. Plus it's really quite beautiful. Our next trek is getting to Potato Chip rock....maybe I'll see you there!

    trees recovering from the fire
    Cindy L.

    It's beautiful here and I love how many options you have for trails. The view once you're on top is rather worth it. The lake is absolutely beautiful when you're looking at it as you're going up. Some of the trails get a little strenuous but maybe it's just because I'm out of shape. You can still see parts of the trail that is still recovering from the fire. The trees are black in some areas and it's really sad to see that. I took my dogs here and they ran around the trails without much of an issue.

    Mi hijo
    Macho T.

    Realmete disfruto llevar a mi hijo a este lago para ir a pescar. Los senderos son muy bonitos en verano. ;)

    Lake Poway.
    Candy K.

    Beautiful trail, very well kept. Plenty of parking on a Thursday. Lake views for most of the trail, 2.8mi total. In my opinion not difficult at all. The dam crossing is closed. Gets hot fast. I recommend early morning or after sunset.

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    Review Highlights - Lake Poway Trail

    We got up to Potato Chip Rock and even though there was a line, there was a wonderful view while we waited.

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    Mount Woodson Trail

    Mount Woodson Trail

    4.5(834 reviews)
    0.3 mi

    If you're thinking about hiking Mount Woodson trail aka the famous Potato Chip Rock--just know…read more.. your legs are about to file a formal complaint. This hike is a little over 7 miles (round trip) and definitely on the "hard but worth it" side, with steady climbs, and rocky steps that will have you questioning "who's idea was this?" For trail details, I'd suggest checking out Alltrails before you go. Things to know: the trailhead starts at Lake Poway Recreation Area and there's a $10 entrance fee. Weather can be unpredictable--our hike started wet and ended sunny, so dress smart. Bring plenty of water, good shoes with traction, and a snack to reward yourself at the top (you earned it). The trail is fairly well marked, but pro tip: take pics at each fork unless you enjoy "bonus miles" on the way down. At the summit, expect a line to snap that iconic photo. And yes--you'll need to do a tiny "jump" onto the rock... which suddenly turns very intimidating when it's your turn. Some people bail, but it's totally doable. Challenging, a little chaotic, and 100% one of my favorite hikes. Your calves won't forgive you--but your camera roll will.

    I know this trail as potato chip rock!…read more We started the hike at 730am, ended at 11 All incline! There are a couple portable bathrooms along the trail. Beautiful view of the lake. Beautiful view of all SD on a clear day! Once you make it to the top you can take a picture on the chip! It's a little scary, but worth it just to say you did it! There's a 10 dollar parking fee. Bathrooms are clean. It's a very diverse park with lots to do!

    Photos
    Mount Woodson Trail - Someone made a wood sign for everyone to enjoy!!  Love this.

    Someone made a wood sign for everyone to enjoy!! Love this.

    Mount Woodson Trail
    Mount Woodson Trail - Finally took a photo on this rock- together.

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    Finally took a photo on this rock- together.

    Blue Sky Ecological Reserve - Poison Oak

    Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

    4.4(67 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    This was a pleasant hike that was north of the more famous Mount Woodson Trail (aka Potato Chip…read moreRock) in Poway. You can actually choose your own adventure about 0.6 mile in with a less strenuous trek that headed south to Lake Poway or a tougher path east and then north that ascended to Lake Ramona. I chose the latter as it was only a round trip of about five miles. There were several switchbacks during the climb towards the summit. The hardest part came just short of Lake Ramona when the dirt became a black top pavement. The footing became better, but the steepness and stiff, swirling breezes made it a challenge. Once you reached the top, the reward was a beautiful view of the lake. There were a few folks who had arrived earlier, and they were armed with fishing poles. I had no idea how they were going to cast their lines because large boulders blocked the way down to the water. It took me exactly two hours from start to finish which included a little rest time at the peak to appreciate the view of the serene water. A bonus of the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve was that the parking lot at the trailhead was very well maintained. If this trail was longer, then I likely would have rated it with five stars.

    Great spot for a peaceful hike. There are plenty of trails to explore. We ended up doing a 2-mile…read moreloop. The path has informative placards throughout, and I loved all the beautiful greenery along the way. There's a large parking lot nearby, and it wasn't crowded. We only saw a few other hikers. A lovely place to get outside and enjoy nature.

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    Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
    Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
    Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

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    Old Coach Trail South Staging area - Look for small rocks with pictures

    Old Coach Trail South Staging area

    3.0(3 reviews)
    1.7 mi

    This is a fine trail, but it's more of an SDGE maintenance road than a traditional hiking trail…read more Tips - As this yelp page title suggests this is the South Trailhead. There is also a North trailhead in Escondido off Highland road.. This is probably the preferable starting point out of the two. - The parking lot and the trailhead are far apart. It's a bit confusing at first, but keep walking down the dirt path along the road and the trail will be next to a large metal gate of a mansion on the left side of the road.. - Look for small hidden rocks with painted pictures on them along the trail.. Look, don't keep... - The vast portion of this trail will be along million dollar homes and the Maderas golf course. There is one shady area along this trail..Bring a hat on hot days. For beginner hikers, just walk to the metal bridge and back. For advanced hikers, hike all the way to Highland road in Escondido..

    The bridge is finally completed. There are actually two ways to get to the trail (South Staging…read morearea in Power or North Staging area in Escondido - 12460 Highland Valley Road near the Evergreen Nursery in Escondido). As my review indicates I opted for the South Staging area which can be accessed by exiting interstate 15 and head east of Rancho Bernardo Road. The road eventually turns into Espola rd, turn left on Old Coach Rd and the staging area will be immediately to your left. Park at the staging area and you will see the trail (make a left) and follow the signs. Take note that you will have to cross the road twice but at the end you will end up on the same side of the trail as when you started and the trail entrance will be marked with a sign "OLD COACH TRAIL ENTRANCE" (see the photo). Follow the trail until you get to a fork, take the trail to the right which will take you to the new bridge. It is hugging the golf course and it is pretty straight forward, some rolling hills until after mile two when the trail is actually parallel a road that takes you to the nursery. It's downhill all the way to the nursery so you know what that means if you are going out and about... uphill on the way back. My round trip hike was a little over six miles so I am sure you can get extra mileage if you follow the trail by the nursery (that will be next time for me). The overall hike is not too bad except for the downhill at the end which translates to uphill on the way back. I recommend it and there are endless possibilities with all the different trails in the Poway area.

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    Old Coach Trail South Staging area - Wild turkeys on mansion driveway..

    Wild turkeys on mansion driveway..

    Old Coach Trail South Staging area
    Old Coach Trail South Staging area

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    Lake Poway Trail - hiking - Updated May 2026

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