Cowles Mountain Sunrise Hike vs Potato Chip Rock Hike

The views at these two trails are some of the best in San Diego! See what makes them both special.

Loving the View at At Cowles Mountain

The Scenery at Cowles Mountain

My favorite view at Cowles Mountain was watching the sunrise at the summit. Even if you’re more of a night owl like I am, getting up early is so worth it for the view. There’s also a little Cowles Mountain plaque near the top where you can snap a great commemorative photo.

On your way up the mountain, there’s a big rock formation that’s another nice photo op, which is only part way through the trail.

The trails at both Cowles Mountain and Potato Chip Rock are bordered by desert scrub and natural rock formations. Potato Chip Rock also has wildflowers down by the lake, while Cowles Mountain is mostly sandy and rocky.

Take in the View at Potato Chip Rock

The huge boulder that gives Potato Chip Rock Hike its name is a popular photo taking spot, though you may have to wait if you visit during peak hours. The rock is just a few minutes from the very top of the trail, where you can look out over the Pacific Ocean for a truly stunning sight.

Potato Chip Rock also has wildflowers down by the lake.

San Diego is generally sunny, and neither hiking trail has much shade. If you’re planning on going during the warmer months, make sure to pack lots of water, especially at the longer Potato Chip Rock hike.

Rain is infrequent, but a storm could still leave the paths muddy. Hike on mild, partly cloudy days, so you can still enjoy the view without any of the setbacks.

Beautiful Flowers Along the Cowles Mountain Summit Hike

Our Preferred Scenic Hike: Cowles Mountain

The view of sunrise at Cowles Mountain just can’t be beat, which is why it’s our winning choice for the best view.

Whether you’re navigating on the hike or just getting to the trail itself, here are some things to keep in mind at each location.

Dog Friendly Trails at Cowles Mountain

Conditions at Cowles Mountain

Cowles Mountain is mainly a dirt pathway with a few rocky sections. If you set out before sunrise like I did, be careful on the way up, especially when stepping over loose gravel. As long as you take it slow on the inclines, you should have little trouble reaching the top.

There are a few entrances to Mission Trails Regional Park. If you’re hoping to hike Cowles Mountain’s trailhead, you’ll find it right near the Cowles Staging Area parking lot off Navajo Road.

Both trails have designated parking lots not far from the trailheads. Mission Trails Regional Park has multiple free lots on the property.

Getting Around at Potato Chip Rock

Mount Woodson Trail, the pathway up to Potato Chip rock, has fewer gravel sections, but the narrowness of the path does mean you’ll be stepping over rocks a few times. Though it’s mostly uphill, there aren’t many hazards to worry about.

To get to Potato Chip Rock, start at the trailhead down by Lake Poway Road. Follow Sumac Trail to Lake Poway Trail, then continue to Mt. Woodson Trail.

At Lake Poway, parking is $10 on weekends but free during the week.

The Easier Trail to Access: Potato Chip Rock

There’s more parking available at Potato Chip Rock, making it the more convenient choice, even accounting for the fee.

However, if you’re arriving early, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a spot to park at either trail most days.

Be aware of potential hazards as you hike and make use of amenities at each location to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Early Morning Hike at Cowles Mountain Summit

Safe Practices at Cowles Mountain

Keep an eye out for snakes as you walk Cowles Mountain’s trail. Feel free to take pictures, but don’t disturb the wildlife. Rattlesnakes are known to live there, so watch where you step.

The route to the Cowles Mountain summit is shorter and doesn’t have any facilities along the way, though there is a restroom at the trailhead.

Trail Facilities at Potato Chip Rock

The biggest hazard at Potato Chip Rock is the sun, so come prepared. This means sunscreen, hats, appropriate hiking attire, and more water than you think you’ll need. It’s a long trail, so don’t underestimate it!

Take breaks as you hike to Potato Chip Rock. There is a picnic area and a restroom by the start of the trail. There are two lookout points as you proceed up the path.

The Spot with Better Amenities: Potato Chip Rock

Potato Chip Rock has more available amenities, including the picnic tables and a few places to catch your breath along the way, though the difference isn’t too significant here.

Here are a few regulations to keep in mind while hiking, plus info about crowds.

Great Feeling at the Top of Cowles Mountain

Guidelines to Know for Cowles Mountain

There are no fees and no necessary permits for hiking at Cowles Mountain.

The trail allows on-leash dogs. Hikers are expected to clean up after their pets.

Cowles Mountain can get crowded, especially on weekend afternoons, though it tends to be less crowded than Potato Chip Rock. We set out on our hike before sunrise so we could avoid running into too many other people, and getting to see the sunrise at the summit was the cherry on top.

Regulations at Potato Chip Rock

Aside from weekend parking, Potato Chip Rock does not charge visitors to hike the trails. You do not need any permits either.

Dogs are allowed here as well. Like at Cowles Mountain, dogs must be on-leash at all times. Bring a water bowl as well, especially on hot days.

Potato Chip Rock is similarly crowded and draws many hikers no matter the season. It’s not recommended to hike this trail in low light due to its steepness, so be prepared to share the path.

Sunrise at Cowles Mountain

Our Team’s Pick: Cowles Mountain Sunrise Hike

Most rules are the same between the two trails, but Cowles Mountain Sunrise Hike is a little less crowded and has free parking even on weekends and holidays, giving it the edge.

Potato Chip Rock Hike is in Poway

Though Potato Chip Rock is one of the most iconic hiking spots in San Diego, its notoriety draws plenty of crowds.

For our money, Cowles Mountain Sunrise Hike is the better spot to go hiking if you like having the trail more to yourself, especially considering the amazing view of the sunrise from the top.