Iron Mountain
0 Reviews
Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
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Iron Mountain Commuter Lot
Poway, CA 92064
32.978263, -116.972909
Dogs: Allowed on leash Kid-Friendly: Yes
Hike: 5.2 miles Level: Moderately Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,102 feet
Make sure to check out our list of all hidden gems in Poway!
About Iron Mountain
Iron mountain is located in Poway and is the second highest peak in this town. From the top you get beautiful panoramic views that can be seen all the way to the ocean on a clear day. Be aware that the trail has a lot of rocky patches which can be dangerous. Make sure you’re paying attention to your footing to avoid injury.
Personal Experience
During the summer months, hiking can become unbearable. That doesn’t mean that most of us stop craving nature and adventure. This is the perfect time of the year for evening and night hikes! Iron Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in San Diego, but once the sun goes down you literally have the entire mountain to yourself!
While you’re in the area, make sure to check out Old Poway Park too!
There is something so magical and dreamy about watching the sun go down atop a peak and then hiking back down at night. Many nocturnal creatures come out to play and feast as well. We spotted a few! The trail head for Iron Mountain is not too far from Potato Chip Rock, which is another hike we recommend doing at night to avoid the crowd.
If you do decide to do this hike during the day, be aware that it gets VERY hot in the summer. Bring a ton of water and if the temps are in the 90’s please leave your dogs at home. There have been many dogs that have gotten very ill or died from heat exhaustion here.
Photo by Josh Claros:
We saw a few fun creatures on our way back down:
