Potato Chip Rock!
Photo: Lance and Steffen taking GO OCLB to the top of Potato Chip Rock!
Lake Poway in Poway, CA
Via Mt Woodson Trail
Starting @ Sumac Trailhead!
Wednesday Nov. 26 @ 9:30 AM
Photo: Rob and Lou surfing on Potato Chip Rock!
This is an extremely popular hike during the weekend, hence the Wednesday (before Thanksgiving) date; I am hoping that the trail won't be so crowded on a Wednesday. Let's keep our fingers crossed!
As evidenced from the photo above, you can understand why this is aptly named Potato Chip Rock!
This is one of the most popular trails for photo ops and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean in all of Southern California. The steep and narrow hike up to Potato Chip Rock and the Mt Woodson Summit is a must-do for locals and visitors alike. Potato Chip Rock is certainly one of the most unique rock formations in the area and draws scores of visitors looking to get a photo at the top.
Located in northern San Diego County, the Mount Woodson Trailhead starts at the end of Lake Poway Road and offers hikers and trail runners a challenging route up to the famous boulder shaped as a potato chip.
We'll start along the Sumac Trailhead (at the end of Lake Poway Road) before turning left to follow the Lake Poway Trail for a short distance. Once you reach the intersection of the Mt. Woodson Trail, the route begins to ascend. This is a great hike that provides a good workout and is a fantastic option for those looking to train for longer hikes and runs.
The Mount Woodson Trail is very exposed so it is highly recommended that you bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and turn around once you are halfway through your water supply. Although the trails remain open year-round, this is not recommended for less experienced hikers during hot weather.
This is considered a Moderate hike, but let me tell you, it is steep in some places and the last time I did this hike my legs were busting by the time I got to the top.
Meeting Point: Sumac Trail Head within Lake Poway Park. Go to the very end of Lake Poway Road, there are restrooms at this point.
From I-15 near Poway, take the Rancho Bernardo Road exit in Poway, go East on Rancho Bernardo Road which turns into Espola Road.
Turn left on Lake Poway Road which will take you to the entrance of Lake Poway Park.
Roundtrip is 7.3 miles, with an elevation gain of just over 2,100 feet.
Estimated Hiking Time is 3.5 to 4.5 hours round trip depending on speed.
The weather should be perfect as the temperature forecast for Wednesday is for the low 70's as the high.
Please plan your travel time as this is a bit of a distance from our OCLB base.
Also inviting my San Diego sisters since this is just up the street from you all!
Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier
Contact info: Lance Whitmier
[email protected]
Lake Poway PARKING IS FREE during the week-
(weekends and holidays it's $10.00 for non- Poway residents)
Don't forget your 10 Essentials!
Also bring some snacks or a small lunch as we will make time to eat & rest at Mt. Woodson Summit (where Potato Chip Rock is nearby).
Eating a meal after the hike at a nearby restaurant/eatery will be an option for those interested.
Trail Etiquette
- Know your place on the trails – Stay to the right, pass on the left, and always yield to uphill traffic.
- Remember trail hierarchy – Horses have priority, then hikers, followed by bikers.
- Don’t be shy – When you encounter others on the trail, offer a friendly “hello” or a simple head nod. If you approach another person from behind, announce yourself in a calm tone and let them know you want to pass.
- Be low tech – While it’s a good idea to have your phone for emergencies, don’t let it distract you from your surroundings.
- Let nature do the talking – Speaking in a low voice and turning down your cell phone will let you and others enjoy the sounds nature has to offer.
- Leave no trace – Always pack out what you bring in, even if it’s biodegradable.
- Don’t feed the wildlife – It’s not good for the animals and it disrupts their habitat.
- Leave what you find – The only souvenirs a hiker should go home with are pictures and memories.
- Stay on the path – Wandering off the trails can be dangerous, and it degrades the habitat
- Be prepared – Bring water and basic first aid supplies. On mountain trails, it’s harder for emergency responders to reach you.
- Set a good example – Following trail etiquette is the best way to show respect for others and for nature.
Photos from past Potato Rock Hikes:
Photo: Is Steffen a 'rock head' or is he modeling the latest in Rock Head Hats?
Photo: On the way up to Potato Chip Rock, there will be some rock steps.
Photo: Steffen exudes the thrill of mounting Potato Chip Rock!
Photo: Lou, Robert and Lance showcasing the view as they near the peak of PC Rock.
Photo: Steffen and Lance displaying the green lushness of the inland views.
Photo: Lance giving the thumbs up on Potato Chip Rock.
Join us for your photo on
Potato Chip Rock!
