Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain is a challenging but very popular out and back trail near Poway. The trail is partially fire road and then mostly single track, with a lot of steep parts, switch backs, and challenging sections. It is possible to wear your child on this hike, just be careful of your footing. Elementary aged strong hikers can accomplish this hike too. This trail has no shade and can get extremely hot, so make sure to bring extra water and check the weather before you head out. Leashed dogs are welcome. Start in the free parking lot at the intersection of Highway 67 and Poway Road. There you can find bathrooms. On the back side of the parking lot you will see a big metal sign saying Iron Mountain, that is the trailhead. The trail will lead you through a small pocket of trees, which is the only shade you will get on your entire hike! Continue along the fire road. At less than half a mile down you will see a small trail branch off to your right. That trail is usually less crowded and in my opinion is prettier, and it will meet back up to the original trail about another half mile down. The fire road will turn into single track and that is where the steep switch backs begin. There are a few forks in the trail along the way, but they are all well marked. Continue along the trail until you reach the peak. On clear days you can see all the way to the ocean! Then once you are done, return the same way you came up. If you want to make this hike a bit shorter and easier, at roughly 1.5 miles up you will see a sign for the helipad. Follow the signs to the helipad and there is a great viewpoint and place to stop before turning around too. That will make your hike only three miles but still enjoy some beautiful views.