Home ⎜ Hikes & Wanderings ⎜ California ⎜ Iron Mountain

Distance: 5.58 mile loop

Time: 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,093 feet

Dog Friendly: Yes, but bring enough water since the trail is quite exposed.

Trailhead Directions: From the 15, take exit 17 for the Scripps Poway Parkway and head  east for 8.6 miles to then make a left at Highway 67. Continue 1.6 miles to the trailhead parking lot on your right.

Hike Directions: From the trailhead parking, pass through the gate and walk south to a treelined path on your left. Veer left and follow the path into the canopy and out the other end, at which point you’ll be presented with a great panoramic view of the chain of peaks that separate the areas of Poway and Ramona. The path continues straight to a signage on your right for “Iron Mountain Peak Trail.” Turn right here and follow the trail as it gently ascends and approaches Iron Mountain. Soon you’ll reach a sign for the Helipad, but keep right for the Peak Trail. Continue 1.45 more miles from this point via switchback to the summit of Iron Mountain.

Scenery: 7/10