Woodson Mountain: Potato Chip Rock Hike
Sunday Dec 14th, 2025 at 9am
The immensely popular hike to Woodson Mountain's summit, commonly referred to as the Potato Chip Rock hike, takes you through an amazing scene of various boulders. The variety of shapes is amazing, from smooth and rounded, angular or shattered, to, of course, the form of a potato chip.
Most hikers elect to stop at the razor-sharp boulder flake popularly dubbed Potato Chip Rock on the left, just as you reach the service road. This geologic feature attracts hikers by the hundreds on weekends, many of whom stand in a long line for the opportunity to have their picture taken atop the flake. Continue another 0.2 mile to each Woodson's highest point.
Hike Start Time and Location: 9:00 am at parking area off highway 67 on west side by Mount Woodson Trail.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tnTnRgG2bUaw5iBm8
Hike Elevation Change: ~1,200 ft
Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderately streneous
Estimated Hike Time: 3 hrs
Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): Out and back
Hiking Trail Details (AllTrails or Similar link): https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/woodson-mountain-and-potato-chip-rock-via-hwy-67
Hike Specific Challenges (scrambling, narrow passages, allergens): None
Hike Specific Equipment: N/A
Parking Information: The parking area is just off Highway 67, near the CAL FIRE Ramona Fire Station.
Costs involved: Free
Pets Permitted: Yes
What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: N/A
Who to Contact with Questions: Bill Stanhope 619.306.2378
*Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:
1. Water/snacks
2. Sun protection/appropriate clothing (check accuweather for forecast)
Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement
Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.
