Great Outdoors Orange County/Long Beach presents
A POP-UP Hike!
Potato Chip Rock!
Via Mt Woodson Trail (Poway, CA)
Starting @ Sumac Trailhead!
Friday February 25, 2022 @ 9 AM
Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier
I was planning on doing this as a solo hike since it is a bit far from the OCLB area but thought I would throw it out to see if anyone else would be interested in hiking to this intriguing rock formation.
This is an extremely popular hike during the weekend, hence the Friday date; I am hoping that the trail won't be so crowded on a Friday. 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 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 (over 3 years ago) my legs were busting by the time I got to the top.
Meeting Point: Sumac Trail Head within Lake Poway Park.
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 4.5 to 6 hours Round trip depending on speed.
The weather should be perfect as the temperature forecast for Friday is for the mid-60s as the high.
Also inviting my San Diego sisters since this is just up the street from you all!
My contact info: Lance Whitmier
Cell: 657-250-5466
President-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org
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/lunch as we will make time to eat @ Potato Chip Rock which is near Mt. Woodson Summit.
Special COVID Related Requirements:
Participants must comply with the following requirements as a condition of registering for this event:
- I will follow Federal, State and local COVID guidelines as well as the directions of the leader.
- I will maintain social distance (min. 6') and wear a face mask if social distancing is not possible
- I will not attend if feeling ill or have any symptoms of COVID.
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I will contact trip leader if I test positive for COVID within 1 day of the event
‘I Accept’ and will comply with these requirements as a condition of participating in this event.
NOTE: Due to COVID restrictions, please DO NOT show up for this hike unless you have completed a registration process here and have answered the required COVID questions. Also, do not bring any unregistered guests on this hike.
