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Potato Chip Rock

4.5 (545 reviews)

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Jenny V.

My friends and I do this hike every year. I got to say it never gets easy lol. We try to do the hike during the cooler weather because in the summer it's way too hot to do it. This is my favorite hike in San Diego.

Amanda J.

A moderate hike with great views both on the way up and at the top. We took the back route, which is mostly paved. The hike was about 4 miles round trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain to reach Potato Chip Rock. It's a steady incline for about 2 miles to the rock, making it challenging but manageable. There was a bit of a wait to take photos on the rock. I didn't take one myself, but it's definitely a great photo spot and worth the hike for the views alone.

Ann V.

This is a greaat hike; unfortunately, I didn't make it up to the talked about "Potato Chip Rock". It was somewhat busy but still peaceful. I was taking my time...since at certain points were a bit challenging for me since I'm not a pro at hiking especially this advanced trail. Overall, I loved the beautiful scenic views and enjoyed being in nature.

Best photo op.
Leeza D.

Hiked via the Mt Woodson trail and it was absolutely lovely. We've had such a mild winter this year that it was a perfect hike to this scenic spot in January. The trail was easy to traverse. Once up to the rock, there was a line and I think we waited 30 minutes for our turn. It was an amazing experience to see everyone was so excited to get their pictures taken. There is a small gap that you need to jump over to get to the potato chip rock and people were very nice and kind to assist other folks on and off the rock. I absolutely love seeing this. You will need to come with someone or in a group so you have a photographer willing to wait and snap your picture. I did all the poses I want but was also considerate of all the folks waiting. This is the best photo op ever. I love all the pics! It's such an amazing experience that I hope everyone interested gets a chance to do. Parking is via street. Be careful, we saw police hiding and waiting to ticket speeders. Please come and visit to create your own experience.

Jay C.

Love this trail, I only do this hike early in the morning to catch the sunrise, which has the best view ever!

Jessi E.

Super fun hike! It is mostly gravel, so you'll have to have boots or wear shoes accordingly. It can get warm, so I recommend going in the early morning. There's a couple of different trails you can go, but I prefer the easier but longer trail that rounds the lake, which is so beautiful as the sun is coming up. Bring LOTS of water or hydration packs, as it will get hot the longer you're out for - and as usual, there's no place to stop aside from trail bends or the very occasional bench. Don't forget your sunscreen and food, or any first aid kit material you may want to bring with you. Better over than under prepared. There's lots of other people, but the earliest you go, the less busy it is to get your obligatory photo off of the edge of the chip.

Lori T.

Pretty difficult 8 miles but we made it with a smile! (My husband has a prosthetic and was able to scramble up the hike and the rock for the pics). However our pictures sucked -- do not zoom in! Crop later. ... can't really see the scope of it all So now we get to go back! Ya gotta get the pic! The only reason for climbing up there... I've been in better shape and it was grueling at times but I WILL GO BACK!

Layers of mountain ranges
Connie W.

I was in Temecula for a wedding so had planned a side trip to tackle this iconic hike on a Friday in October. Unlike the rolling hills of the San Jose area, the hills in this area are full of boulders, it reminded me of the Flintstones. Bonus points for me - I saw one rock that looks like Half Dome. We hiked the shorter route (4 miles) from Cal Fire Station on Highway 67. We started at 9am, the trail was partially shaded from the sun being on the other side of the mountain. There were also some gentle breezes on this day. I enjoyed the sprawling views of the valley with backgrounds of different mountain ranges in front of each other; I think the views of the various layers of mountains are so pretty, I find it therapeutic to just stare at it. I was expecting a line of people waiting for photo shoots on the Chip Rock but there was no wait on a Friday morning. This was great cuz I made a slow crawl to the top of the ledge. We met a group of 3 people from Sweden who helped us take pictures. On the hike down the hill, we met a guy training for an ultra marathon by running 6X up and down this hill (6x4 miles out and back). I felt very accomplished by completing this hike.

Sunset on Potato Chip Rock
Miley D.

One of my favorite hikes ever. It is 4 miles in and out. It is at an 8 degree incline 95% of the way so it's an amazing workout for your legs! The views are incredible along the way and at the top! We started at 6pm and made it by 7pm in time for the sunset! It was breathtaking. If i could change anything, I would've started at 530pm or 545pm to have a little more time enjoying the sunset. Being water. The trail is paved so it's well marked and good for your feet. I will definitely go again!

This is the potato chip!  Take the obligatory photo !
Stephanie G.

I love this hike ! It's challenging, steep all the way up and then steep decline. Parking is real easy at poway lake, and there may or may not be a cost to park there. Hike is about 7 miles give or take and make SURE you bring water sunscreen and comfy hiking shoes. Lots of flora and fauna. I've seen rattlers and gopher snakes, spider wasps here and there and a wide variety or lizards. This area is considered mountain lion territory as well so be cautious. The view is incredible and it is quiet in the middle of the week and packed holidays and weekends. One of my favorites ! Definitely recommend !

Mariela O.

To get here you have to hike here, fyi the hike here was a bit difficult as I believe we took the long route according to reading other's reviews on taking a short way, which we didn't take haha We got there on an early Saturday morning which was perfect to beat the crowds, parking wasn't difficult to find either for that reason. I definitely would do this hike again it's fun and you get a good workout out of it. I was scared at first to go on the rock but made it and just hung out there until my picture was taken by my friends. It really does look like a potato chip!

After the hike: Not bad!
Joy J.

Can't believe I never wrote a review for this one! It's been over a year since I hiked Potato Chip Rock and I still remember it clear as day! Went with a group 4 deep when covid was still very much poppin', and all of the outdoorsy adventures was the thing to do. I have never, ever been a morning person, but a lot of my friends are and whenever we hike, they always insist on going early. Personally, I'd rather go in the late afternoon into the evening when it's cooler. We arrived around 830am and got going around 9. I want to say there's at least 2 ways to get to the Chip, but don't quote me on that. Whatever route we took was pretty fast imo, although it was A LOT of steep hills and turning corners. I do remember that I liked the paved road. It wasn't rocky until we got near the end. Service trucks take that same road up and sometimes you may have to move to the side to let them pass. There's a lot of good spots for scenic photo opps as you can see...and if you "gotta go" at any time during your hike, you won't have a problem finding a little secret space to handle your biz (bring a pack of wipes, lol). You might have to wait until people pass until you're in the clear, so make sure you go with a group who has your back! I think it took us about an hour and a half to get to the Chip, and when we got there around 10:30, we were glad to see the line wasn't super long. Depending on what time you get there, you could be waiting a good while before you're actually standing on it. Getting ON the actual Potato Chip itself is a bit tricky, but you'll find a way, lol. We got a good amount of pics and the people behind us kept their cool while they waited for us to finish snapping away. Once we finally did finish, getting down was a bit nerve wracking (especially if you're afraid of heights), but this is where your trusty group will come in handy! I did the half climb down, half jump down and made it without a hitch. Overall this is a quick hike that leaves you feeling accomplished and invigorated. Be sure to bring a lot of water! Don't skimp on it in the hotter months! I'd also recommend a few protein or snack bars if you're prone to getting lightheaded or dizzy. Aaaaaaand of course, don't forget to slather on your sunscreen, bring a hat and shades to make your hike as comfortable as possible. One of those towels that stays cool around your neck would be a great thing to have, along with comfortable hiking boots or shoes. Be safe, alert and watch your steps (there are some rocky parts) going up and back down. Take breaks when you need to and keep going 'til you make it on that Chip! You'll be so glad when you do! Have fun!!

Krajicek K.

Went in 2021 and again this month. Both times were fun and rewarding! The keys for a good hike is to be well prepared with adequate amount of liquid, a pair of good hiking shoes, and hike on a comfortable weekday. It was about 60F on a February Friday afternoon. Parking at Lake Poway was free on weekdays. Tail wasn't crowded. Line to take pictures at the potato chip rock was short. We waited probably 5 mins. But do be careful jumping onto the rock. If you need help, ask. People up there were helpful! Great views on the top and during the hike!

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Great hike to go with friends but do make sure which side you start on because one is really hard vs the other one

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Potato Chip Rock Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Potato Chip Rock

Is this hike stroller / infant friendly?

Not stroller friendly. If children are 7+ and have a good disposition they will hike it without complaint and several rest stops. Remember this is a mountain with elevation. There's more to the beauty than just the potato chip… Read more

Does anyone know the exact address to Ramona side?

Near Cal Fire-Paste this in google maps: 16310 CA-67

Where is the best spot for parking?

It depends which way you choose to hike. For the longer hike, park at Lake Poway park. I'm not sure where you park if you hike from Ramona.

How's the parking on the 67? I won't be towed right?

No, plenty of cars lined up along the way.

Do i need help climbing up to the potato chip rock. Can i go by myself?

You do not need help climbing up to Potato Chip Rock. Often, there is a line of about 15 people waiting their turn to walk on top of Potato Chip Rock. You need to climb up a little boulder to reach the top surface of Potato Chip Rock. It is as… Read more

What is the address for free parking?

You can park at Lake Poway parking lot and hike to potato chip rock The parking is free on weekdays… Read more

How long is the hike?

From the park entrance, depending on the hiker ability can take four hours. (it took us longer in the heat!)… Read more

Is there any bugs, mosquitoes, snakes on the trail?

Yes. We saw a huge snake about 5" long about 4 months ago. Just be careful. No mosquitoes or bugs that may harm you.

What's the address for parking?

16643 Highway 67 should get you to the area where you can see everyone parks

What time should we start this hike to avoid crowds?

Of course 6am would be ideal, when the park opens, but we began our hike around 7:30am on a Sunday and it wasn't bad. I feel like you would still wait for a pic on the rock regardless (which I did, for almost an hour), unless you get there right at… Read more

Gonna check this out. We want to go as early as possible on a weekday. How early is the parking open? Are we parking in the lake poway parking?

Park opens from sunrise to sunset

How long does it take to get to the top ? And is it hard to get to the top

Depends if you want to attempt the mountain from the front or back. The front is. Ear the lake and takes an hour or so and then back side takes about a half an hour. I also have long legs so I'm a quick hiker, times might vary

How to get to teailhead

To get to the trailhead the main route people always use is through going to the Lake Poway Entrance and then when you get to the front of the piers just follow the trails on the right and the signs will help you out.

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Review Highlights - Potato Chip Rock

I believe the parking at Lake Poway closes at a certain time which was why we couldn't make it the entire way.

Mentioned in 45 reviews

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Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks

(13 reviews)

Great moderate hike! There are several trails to choose from, but the one we did was just over 3…read moremiles with over 800 ft of elevation gain. The trail is well maintained and rewards you with a beautiful panoramic view of Poway.

Short and sweet out-and-back trail. ~1.9 miles total, can finish in about an hour. Start in…read moreSilverset Park where there's a nice parking lot, a bathroom and a lot of families walking around. The hike itself is very quiet, I was expecting bigger crowds on a Sunday afternoon with beautiful weather but only ran into 2 solo hikers the entire trail. This could be a pro or a con depending on if you're seeking solitude or have some concerns about safety (e.g. a female solo hiker), but the area itself feels extremely peaceful and safe and embedded in a lovely suburban neighborhood. I also had cell service the whole time on this trail too which was nice. Gets steeper closer to the top and might have to climb over a good number of rocks (some of which are a bit loose) but nothing that you can't handle with a good pair of hiking shoes and a bit of caution. Agree with the other posted reviews that there's a network of trails that is not super well labeled and the signs are not helpful. Still, you can see the summit from the trail pretty much the entire time and that helped me orient myself, just choose the path leading in the direction of that summit. Great workout, views at the top are beautiful and completely worth it!

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve - Poison Oak

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

(67 reviews)

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.

Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve - The falls area

Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve

(394 reviews)

Mira Mesa, Torrey Hills

I've done this trail/hike quite a few times already since I grew up in the area. It's been a few…read moreyears since I had last done it and I went alone with my little dog a few months ago during the summer. BRING ALOT OF WATER. If you're new to this trail/hike, I would recommend the north trail. The south trail can be a bit confusing and you may get lost if you're inexperienced. Parking: I take a little shortcut and I park closer to Park Village elementary school and there's a little parking lot area roundabout that you can park in. Plenty of little trails , little critters, and people riding their horses through. A calming sight to see. there is good amount of water during the summertime when I went. Hiking shoes are not needed. When you get to the waterfall, there's plenty of rocks you can climb onto and it's pretty fun. Dog friendly, but make sure they're on a leash during the trail.

Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve is a set of flat hiking trails along a dry creek bed stretching…read morefrom Black Mountain Road on the east to Sorrento Valley on the west. The round trip from one end to the other was just under 12 miles. From the east, you start at Canyonside Community Park. The parking spaces closest to the trailhead were adjacent to baseball field #8 so keep that in mind. You can actually take one of two parallel trails westward, one north of the creek bed and one south of the creek bed, towards the "waterfall" which was about a three-mile distance. I have done both before with different groups of friends. There was quite a bit of shade on certain parts of the trek. You will need to watch out for dung as horse riding was permitted on the trails. The waterfall was an area of boulders where the creek has flowing water that descends maybe 20 feet over a distance of about 50 yards. At this junction, you can cross the creek from the north trail to the south trail or vice versa to head back east to Canyonside Community Park. I have never gone west of the waterfall, but one of these days I will do so or start from the Sorrento Valley side and head eastward. If you like a long hike without much elevation, then this will be for you.

Mount Woodson Trail

Mount Woodson Trail

(834 reviews)

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!

Potato Chip Rock - hiking - Updated May 2026

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