Iron Mountain Trailhead 14847-14909 California 67, Poway, CA 92064

"Iron Mountain is an out and back trail to the peak at 2,696 elevation. Very well maintained. Starts as a fire trail and becomes more narrow as you climb. Hiking boots recommended as there are areas with rocks. Bring a backpack, water and a snack. Enjoy the wonderful views. You can trail run for a fast workout. Or take your time and have a wonderful day. Arrive early for free parking in the lot or along the street."

"It's such a good hike! It's 6 miles round-trip with lots of elevation gain. It starts simple with a flat, wide trail that slowly turns into a shaded tree area with an intersection. On the intersection, take the left towards the staging area. After another mile of hiking, you will reach a second intersection. Take the right towards Iron Mountain Peak. Then, after another 1.5 miles of semi-steep switchbacks, you will reach the summit. There is a large sign, some picnic tables, and a metal circle pointing towards all the other peaks. Finally, just go back down the way you came up, and that's the hike!"

"The view at the top of the mountain is amazing! There are picnic tables at the very top, so you can sit and enjoy a snack/lunch. It is very rocky on the way up, so wear some comfortable hiking shoes. But overall, the trail is very maintained, and the hike is very fun, especially if you go on a cooler day."

"A great trail for exercise and to get out of the city without driving too far. Recommend lots of water and electrolytes. If you’re a beginner take it slow and enjoy. Lot’s of rocks and slippery slopes, easy to roll an ankle! Get there early or carpool cause parking can get pretty packed!"

"IRON MOUNTAIN-HIKERS WANTED The entire trail is wondrous with  panoramic vistas of rolling hills,  distant mountains, and boulder formations.  One of the highlights of the hike was the tree arch entry that greets you with blessings for a good hike. And that's about all the shade you will get :). AMENITIES The portopotties are a sanitary mayhem and need to be closed for hazmat. The stench reaches the parking lot. Parking & trail are free. IT'S THIS MOUNTAIN SAFE? On a scale 1-5 where 5 is the safest: 5 From sunrise to sunset you will see people. You will likely cross paths with someone every 15 minutes. No high cliffs or edges. Safe trails. Perfect trail for those wanting to explore solo hikes. While that is said, don't underestimate your own preparation. HOW FIT DO YOU HAVE TO BE FOR THIS HIKE? If you do cardio at least 4 hours weekly, you can manage this hike. But I also saw: A woman with flip flops A man carrying two 3 gallon jugs filled with water All age ranges and weight classes A first timer hiker and the list goes on. WHAT WAS YOUR OVERALL EXPERIENCE? I experienced the hike to be fun and interesting with the different terrain, views, switchbacks and boulders. If you can step up on a curb or do lunges then you can step on, over, or to the side of the boulders. With that being said, there are walking crevasses next to the boulders on the trail. I heard the hike was hard and because of my success on Saturday. I thought it was a fluke, so I went back the following next day. And it was just as enjoyable. Overall, this 5.8 mile hike offered a mix of natural beauty, conditioning, and satisfaction. It's a great way to connect with friends, groups, nature and obviously movement. I highly recommend Iron Mountain instead of Cowles mountain. HIGHLIGHTS Well maintained and clearly marked Perfect for new solo hikers No dog or human feces on trail NEED TO KNOW Can be done with/out trekking poles. I take mine because dogs were not leashed, although required San Diego temps can still reach the 80's in October. "A mustard seed of faith can move mountains. Have a mountainous faith to move every obstacle in your path." --Juken #JUKEN123 #ironmountainsd #hikepowaysd #hikepanoramicviews"