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.

Sunrise at Cowles Mountain

Take In the Scenery

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.

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 more sandy and rocky.

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.

Beautiful Flowers Along the Cowles Mountain Summit Hike

Seasonal Experiences

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.

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.

One of the Markers at Cowles Mountain

Conditions of Each Trail

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.

Mount Woodson Trail 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.

How to Get There

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.

For 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.

Where to Park

Both trails have designated parking lots not far from the trailheads.

At Lake Poway, parking is $10 on weekends but free during the week. Mission Trails Regional Park has multiple free lots on the property.

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

Map of the View at Cowles Mountain Summit at Mission Trails Regional Park

Safe Practices for Both Trails

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 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!

View from the Summit at Cowles Mountain

Trail Facilities

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 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.

Here are a few regulations to keep in mind while hiking.

Cost of Hiking

Aside from parking, neither Cowles Mountain nor Potato Chip Rock charge visitors to hike the trails. You do not need any permits either.

Dog Friendly Trails at Cowles Mountain

Pet Policies

Both trails allow dogs, but they must be on-leash at all times. Hikers are expected to clean up after their pets. Bring a water bowl as well, especially on hot days.

Crowds

Cowles Mountain can get crowded, especially on weekend afternoons. 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.

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.

Here are a few bonus tips to consider before you go on either hike.

How Do You Find the Visitor Centers?

Mission Trails Regional Park has a visitor center right off the Father Junipero Serra Trail park entrance. It is open from 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

Loving the View at At Cowles Mountain

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Since there is little shade at either trail, I’d caution against hiking during the hot summer months, especially at Potato Chip Rock, unless you are willing to go early.

It’s best in my opinion to do the hikes during spring or fall, when there’s less risk of heatstroke or severe sunburns.